English is a second language in the US. It's the official language, but in reality it enjoys second class status when compared to Engrish, Ebonics, and Spanish.

My son would be far behind where I was when I was in 3rd grade if I didn't bust my ass with him. The teacher does so much remedial work with the Spanish speakers that everyone falls behind.

They make up for it by teaching Spanish as the foreign language since they know it will be easy for most of the kids.

This has a lot to do with the problem in some school districts. IMHO they should have their own English classes so people that speak English can get a proper English education, not an "English as a foreign language" one.