Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar introduced the Teachers of English Language Learners (TELL) Act. The act helps teachers become certified in Teaching English as a Second Language by providing tax deductions for eligible expenses. The TELL act also aims to recruit highly qualified teachers to eligible high-need schools with significant English Language Learners (ELL) rates by providing tax credits that extend for up to ten years.

 “Education has always been one of my top priorities,” said Congressman Cuellar. “This is an effective way to help educators obtain the training they need to teach our Limited English Proficiency (LEP) students.”

To best serve LEP students, teachers must have Teaching English as Second Language skills, or any similar accreditation. The TELL act simplifies the accreditation process and makes it easier for students to receive the education they need.

Congressman Cuellar continued, “The 28th Congressional District has schools where LEP students make up more than 40% of the student body. We must provide ESL teachers with the proper tools needed to continue educating America’s youth, and I will continue fighting to ensure that our educators are properly equipped with the tools necessary to teach this population.”

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development, and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Majority Senior Whip.

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