Extensive research on immersion/bilingual programs in North America and around the world has demonstrated that these forms of dual language education can be, and often are, effective at promoting advanced levels of second language proficiency without jeopardizing students’ first language or academic development. The vast majority of this research has been carried out with typically-developing students from majority language and cultural groups. This limitation in current research raises important ethical, professional and practical issues. This presentation will discuss findings from research on students with learning challenges, including language and reading disabilities and special education needs, in dual language programs.