from adulthood also deserve a big thank you from me as they have pitched in and helped in so many ways whether it was an encouraging message online or driving one of my children to an event. Their encouragement is priceless. Lastly, I would like to thank my past and present colleagues and superintendents who supported my efforts. It is extremely difficult to be a full-time public school administrator and doctoral student at The University of Iowa. There were many times when I had to step back from projects at work, but my fellow principals, my teachers, my staff, and my superintendents all have waited patiently cheering me on. They are as excited as I am that I have finished my study and can share my research with others. Teaching and language acquisition have been my passion for almost 25 years. I have always loved languages and studying other cultures. I have been so fortunate to be able to learn, live, and grow as a student, teacher, and administrator in environments surrounded by my passions. I hope that my work inspires others to advocate for those that cannot always advocate for themselves. v TABLE OF CONTENTS LIST OF TABLES .