Why ELL Training?
The ELL population is the fastest growing student group in the United States (Field, 2008). It is projected by the year 2050, ELLs will make up roughly 40 % of the total American student population (Ardasheva et al., 2011). |
English Language Learners (ELLs) are the largest growing student population in the U.S. By the year 2050, it is projected that ELLs will constitute roughly 40% of the American student population. (Ardasheva et al., 2011). Although teachers’ pedagogy and practice has attempted to adapt to the demographic shift, ELL achievement remains low (Bridglall
& Han, 2009; de Cohen & Clewell, 2007; Field, 2008; Drame & Xu, 2008). Research also shows that teachers have not been effectively prepared to serve multi-lingual and multi-cultural students; ultimately contributing to ELLs’ academic failures (Theoharis, 2007; Brown, 2004; Cambron-McCabe et al., 2008; McDonald, 2005). In the state of Massachusetts, under the RETELL (Rethinking Equity in Teaching for English Language Learners) Initiative, the DESE requires that all core content teachers be trained in SEI (Sheltered English Instruction) and to receive the SEI Endorsement as of 2016. Guidelines also require that all licensed educators in Massachusetts receive at least 15 PDPs (Professional Development Points) in the area of SEI and ESL (English as a Second Language). Our mission is to provide accessible SEI/ESL training modules so that educators and educational leaders will best be able to serve a growing ELL population. By differentiating instruction and including culturally and linguistically relevant pedagogy, teachers will assist ELLs in their language acquisition while at the same time foster their home cultures and empower them to achieve their greatest academic potentials. |