English learners (ELs) are one of America's fastest-growing student groups, and their numbers are most concentrated in the country's Great Cities. In addition, the academic needs of these school children are complex and varied, especially as they are developing knowledge of multiple language systems. This document is continued evidence of how urban school leaders are working to ensure success for all our students. Considering recent concerns about the reading proficiency levels of students across the country and discussions about best practices to support foundational literacy skills development, the Council has developed a vision for foundational literacy skills instruction that meets the complex needs of English learners. This document provides a review of general and EL-specific research on early literacy, drawing from both to define a vision for foundational literacy skills instruction for ELs. The document outlines a framework for foundational literacy skills instruction around six principles to ensure that ELs develop the necessary literacy skills to engage with complex text in all subject areas successfully. Finally, the document also presents criteria by which school administrators and teachers can determine whether instructional materials for foundational literacy skills instruction are conducive to meeting the needs of English learners.