English learners (ELs) new to the U.S. school system are neither blank slates nor empty vessels waiting to be filled. Rather, they bring with them diverse sets of skills and schooling experiences, as well as distinct social and cultural motivations for learning. To determine the most effective approaches and strategies when working with ELs it is critical that teachers and program coordinators have a handle-on students’ backgrounds, needs and aspirations. The Newcomer Interview Protocol provides