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6 EDCAL June 27 2016 RESEARCH Continued from page 4 and alignment of instruction with curricula framework were identified through quantitative and qualitative methods as significant themes that guided strategies employed by superintendents. Having professional development aligned to the districtwide Local Control and Accountability Plan goals was referenced as a pivotal guiding instrument for districtwide academic goals for ELLs. Research question 2: “What do superintendents perceive to be the greatest obstacles to improving the academic achievement of ELLs?” Superintendents identified unions, teachers and school-level administrators as stakeholders with the potential to function as obstacles toward the improvement of ELL academic achievement. Research question 3: “How are resources allocated in California to improve the academic achievement of ELLs?” Significant subgroup, CELDT scores, reclassification rates and socioeconomic status were identified as factors considered by superintendents when allocating resources toward the TRANSITIONS Continued from page 4 Springs Elementary. nnn Cary Matsuoka has been announced as the next superintendent of Santa Barbara USD. Matsuoka has served five years as superintendent of Milpitas USD, and prior to that, five years as superintendent of Los Gatos-Saratoga Union HSD. nnn Anaheim Union HSD welcomes four new names to the administrative team. Jennifer Root assumes the position of assistant superintendent of business services, improvement of ELL achievement. Research question 4: “How do superintendents evaluate programs used to improve the academic achievement of ELLs? Analyzing ELL subgroup assessment data, valid and reliable assessment instruments, and site administrator classroom observation were prominent themes. Conclusions The study concluded that mid-sized district superintendents in California play a pivotal role in how the needs of English language learners are met