Multilingual Learners (EL/ML)
How can EL/DL specialists, general education teachers, and special education providers effectively collaborate to support multilingual learners with diverse needs?
In this session, educators will compare co-teaching models that maximize both content mastery and language growth. We will explore various co-teaching approaches, such as team teaching, parallel teaching, and station teaching, and discuss when each model is most effective. Participants will learn how to divide roles, plan together using collaborative planning templates, and deliver instruction that supports multilingual learners with diverse needs. We'll also address common challenges in co-teaching and strategies for overcoming them.
Participants will compare co-teaching models and when to use each effectively. As well as, develop a shared responsibility matrix for co-teaching teams. And start work on practical strategies for shared instruction that supports both language and content learning.
Intended Audience: EL/DL teachers, special education teachers, co-teaching teams, instructional leaders
How can educators address behavior challenges in classrooms with diverse cultural backgrounds while maintaining high expectations and honoring students’ cultural norms?
In this session, educators will explore the impact of cultural differences on behavior and communication. We will examine the principles of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and how to adapt them to be culturally responsive. Participants will learn strategies for building positive relationships with students from diverse backgrounds, using culturally relevant examples in instruction, and implementing restorative justice practices. We will also discuss how to involve families in developing behavior support plans and creating a classroom environment that respects and celebrates cultural diversity.
Participants will create a list of 5 culturally responsive classroom management strategies. Also, they will develop a sample behavior support plan that incorporates a student's cultural background. And they will start designing a communication plan to engage families in behavior support.
Intended Audience: Teachers, behavior specialists, instructional leaders, dual language educators, EL educators
How can educators help multilingual students develop oral and written language quickly and gain confidence and competence in speaking, reading, and writing?
This session delivers practical, research-based strategies to help students gain confidence and competence in speaking, reading, and writing in English and other target languages. We will explore techniques for creating a language-rich classroom environment, such as using visuals and interactive activities. Participants will learn strategies for scaffolding language development, providing explicit instruction in vocabulary and grammar, and incorporating authentic communication tasks. We will also discuss how to assess language proficiency and track student progress.
Participants will create a vocabulary development activity using a research-based strategy. They will also develop a language scaffold for a content-area lesson. And start designing a formative assessment to track student language growth.
Intended Audience: EL teachers, Dual Language Educators, interventionists
How can administrators navigate the complexities of EL and Dual Language programs to ensure multilingual learners thrive and meet compliance requirements?
In this session, administrators will delve into the nuances of EL and Dual Language models, exploring various program designs, including transitional, maintenance, and two-way immersion. We'll examine state and federal policies, such as Title III and ESSA requirements, and how to implement them effectively. Participants will learn to conduct needs assessments, develop program evaluations, and establish data-driven decision-making processes to ensure continuous improvement and compliance. We will also discuss creating a welcoming and inclusive school climate that values multilingualism and fosters family engagement.
Participants will develop a draft program evaluation plan for their EL/DL program. As well as, identify 3 key policy requirements and create an action plan for compliance. And start working on creating a checklist for conducting a needs assessment for their multilingual learners.
Intended Audience: Administrators and School Leaders
Are you an administrator or school leader struggling to keep up with changing policies while ensuring multilingual students receive the support they need? Do you need actionable strategies to comply with regulations without compromising student success?
This session will delve into recent policy changes related to multilingual education, including legal requirements and best practices. We will analyze legal and effective language supports, discuss creative strategies to maintain strong language development despite policy shifts, and explore ways to engage families and communities. Participants will learn data-driven approaches to advocate for multilingual students’ needs and collaborate on needed supportive professional development for staff. This session will provide practical solutions, legal insights, and leadership strategies to help you navigate compliance while fostering an inclusive learning environment.
Participants will develop a plan for communicating policy changes to staff and families. They will also start creating a data collection tool to track the progress of multilingual learners. And they will identify 2 legal requirements related to multilingual education and develop an action plan for compliance.
Intended Audience: District leaders, principals, assistant principals, and instructional coaches
Do you have multilingual students who excel in math but go unnoticed because of language barriers? Are you seeking ways to better support their advanced learning needs?
This session will delve into the complexities of identifying giftedness in multilingual learners, including the use of non-verbal assessments and culturally sensitive screening tools. We will explore strategies for differentiating math instruction, such as tiered assignments, flexible grouping, and enrichment activities. Participants will learn how to create challenging and engaging math tasks that build on students' strengths and address their language needs. We will also discuss how to advocate for high-ability multilingual learners and ensure they receive appropriate support and opportunities.
Participants will develop a differentiated math lesson plan for high-ability multilingual learners. They will also identify 2 non-verbal assessment tools for identifying giftedness. And they will start to create a checklist for supporting high-ability multilingual learners in math.
Intended Audience: Math teachers, high-ability coordinators, instructional coaches, Dual Language educators
This year-long professional development series provides targeted support for administrators, educators, and parents working with multilingual students. It includes two administrative sessions, multiple educator training sessions with personalized coaching, and a parent partnership session in Spanish.
Session 1: Building a Strong Foundation: Administrator Leadership for Multilingual Student Success
Are you unsure how to effectively support dual language and ESL programs at your school? Do you need clarity on how to align your vision with policy and empower your staff to foster an inclusive, language-rich environment?
In this session, administrators will gain a practical roadmap to build and sustain strong multilingual programs. Through real-world examples and strategic planning tools, school leaders will explore how to set achievable goals, remain compliant with evolving policy, and cultivate a school culture that values multilingualism.
Intended Audience: Administrators and School Leaders
Session 2: Administrator’s End-of-Year Reflection & Strategic Planning for Growth
Are you wondering how well your multilingual programs are meeting student needs and how to plan effectively for next year? Do you need a structured way to review data, set goals, and strengthen support for multilingual learners?
In this session, school and district administrators will analyze multilingual student outcomes, reflect on the impact of current programming, and create a strategic plan for program growth. Emphasis will be placed on improving instructional quality, strengthening teacher retention, and engaging families in meaningful ways.
Intended Audience: School & district administrators
Supporting Dual-Identified Students: Special Education in Multilingual Classrooms
Are you struggling to distinguish between language acquisition difficulties and true learning disabilities? Do you want to better support multilingual learners with IEPs, ADHD, dyslexia, or processing disorders?
This session helps educators identify the unique needs of dual-identified students and collaborate effectively with special education teams to ensure equitable access and success.
Intended Audience: Dual Language & ESL Educators, Special Education Teachers
Culturally Responsive Teaching & Strengthening Family Engagement
Do you want to make your classroom more inclusive while building stronger relationships with multilingual families? Are you looking for ways to integrate home languages and cultures into learning?
This session equips educators with tools to connect culturally, communicate effectively, and involve families in meaningful school partnerships.
Intended Audience: Dual Language & ESL Educators
Coaching that Works: Personalized PD for Multilingual Educators
Are you facing day-to-day classroom challenges with multilingual learners and unsure how to grow professionally? Do you need targeted support tailored to your specific teaching context?
This coaching-based session provides personalized professional development to address the real needs of educators, enhance instructional practice, and build long-term capacity in dual language or ESL classrooms.
Intended Audience: Dual Language & ESL Educators
Apoyando el Crecimiento del Lenguaje en Casa: Reunión de Padres
¿Quieres saber cómo apoyar el desarrollo del lenguaje de tu hijo en casa? ¿Te gustaría aprender actividades prácticas para fomentar el español y el inglés fuera del aula?
In this interactive Spanish-language session, educators will provide hands-on tools and resources for parents to support language development at home and navigate the school system confidently.
Intended Audience: Dual Language & ESL Educators with Parents of multilingual students (Spanish session)
How can educators and administrators make informed decisions when selecting and implementing technology for multilingual learners to meet language proficiency and learning goals?
This session empowers educators and administrators to make informed decisions when selecting and implementing technology for multilingual learners. We will explore a variety of tech tools, including translation apps, language learning platforms, and assistive technology. Participants will learn how to match the right tools to student needs, from language acquisition to content mastery—while promoting accessibility, engagement, and equity. We will also discuss strategies for integrating technology into instruction, providing professional development for staff, and ensuring equitable access for all students.
Participants will create a list of 3 tech tools and their specific uses for multilingual learners. They will also develop a plan for integrating a tech tool into a lesson. And they will design a professional development plan for staff on using technology with multilingual learners.
Intended Audience: ESL teachers, Dual Language Educators, IT support staff
What They're Saying
"This was a fun, interactive training. I felt like a student who wanted to learn and was able to learn by "doing". So much great information that will be used daily in my classroom! Thank you!"
Kenna Kahlig,
Teacher
"They always offer great information that can immediately be implemented in the classroom. Resources are always abundant and helpful."
Lisa Hoagland,
Teacher
"I love the hands on workshop, letting us have time to have a conversation, and not rushing all the information."
Katherine Espich,
Teacher