This issue brief explores effective educational models for serving English Language Learners (ELLs) in ways that build upon these students' assets and prepare them for college and careers. The brief derives from an AYPF field trip to Texas's Rio Grande Valley region. On May 6-8, 2009 AYPF led a group of national policy leaders on a fact-finding tour of the area to learn about programs and models that have increased ELL student performance, high school graduation rates, and college attendance. The brief provides background information on the importance of improving the educational outcomes of ELL students, a description of the limitations of current federal legislation addressing ELLs, an overview of the models being implemented in the Rio Grande Valley region, and recommendations for future federal legislation. (Contains 3 footnotes.)