Which statement is true regarding English Language Learner proficiency?

Academic English proficiency is indeed a crucial factor in student achievement. For English Language Learners (ELLs), mastering academic language significantly impacts their ability to understand and navigate the curriculum effectively. Proficiency in academic English allows students to engage with complex texts, participate in discussions, and express their understanding of content in school subjects. This academic language proficiency is tied to students' overall success in school, as it enables them to perform well on assessments, understand classroom instruction, and ultimately achieve better educational outcomes.

The other statements do not accurately reflect the challenges faced by ELLs. For example, while achievement gaps can occur in several areas, they are prominent in both reading and mathematics. Additionally, a substantial number of ELLs come from low-income families, contradicting the claim about the majority not being low-income. Lastly, language barriers can have significant and long-lasting effects on students' academic performance, impacting their confidence and engagement in school activities.