What issue may arise if an ELL (English Language Learner) student is incorrectly placed in a SPED program?

Placing an English Language Learner (ELL) student incorrectly in a special education (SPED) program can indeed lead to labeling the student as having a learning disorder without a proper assessment. This can happen because language barriers might cause educators to misinterpret the student's challenges as a disability, rather than recognizing them as a result of insufficient English proficiency. Consequently, the student may receive inappropriate interventions that do not address their actual needs—namely, gaining proficiency in English.

In this context, it's essential to differentiate between a language acquisition issue and a learning disability. A proper process would involve evaluating the student’s abilities, taking into account their language skills, to determine whether they genuinely require special education services. Mislabeling can have long-term consequences for the student, including limited access to appropriate educational opportunities, and a negative impact on their self-esteem and academic identity.