Upcoming Professional Development—Bilingual/ESL

The Science of Reading for Language Learners

In this workshop, participants will build a deep knowledge of the science of how emergent bilingual students learn to read in ways that are different from monolingual, English-speaking students. So, what has research revealed for dual language programs that's been excluded from the reading wars?

Participants will learn to apply an approach to literacy instruction that requires both meaning making and reading words, efficiency of practice, and focus on purpose, all while systematically leveraging students' first language as the most useful resource they have. This session also outlines pedagogical implications across literacy components, methods, strategies, and practices that are essential to integrating print concepts, phonics, and phonemic awareness instruction with a focus on developing readers & writers who are able to make meaning. Teachers will learn and practice essential strategies designed to explicitly teach and reinforce cross-linguistic connections.

This virtual training is funded through Title III and will be presented on Zoom. Registrants will receive a link 24 hours before the presentation. It will not be recorded.

• Grades K–5 — July 28, 2021
• Grades 6–12 — July 30, 2021

Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC): Annually Required Training For Previously Trained Directors

- Returning Directors

This three-hour session is intended for attendees who have previously participated in an LPAC Training provided by an education service center such as Region 4 ESC. This session will review updated information provided by TEA. Learn state laws and policies for educating English Language Learners (ELLs), LPAC duties and responsibilities, and guidelines for identifying, placing, exiting and  monitoring ELLs.

• August 6, 2021
• August 18, 2021

Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC): Annually Required Training For New Directors (VIRTUAL)
- New Directors

August 18, 2021

This session provides extensive training on the LPAC Framework with updated information provided by TEA.  Learn state laws and policies for educating English Language Learners (ELLs), LPAC duties and responsibilities, and guidelines for identifying, placing, exiting and monitoring ELLs. Participants will receive an LPAC Manual.  Learn more and register here.

LPAC Decision-Making Process for the Texas Assessment Program

November 3, 2021

Learn the requirements of the Texas Assessment Program for English Language Learners (ELLs). Participants will receive the LPAC Decision-Making Guides to help LPACs comply with state requirements as they monitor progress and needs of ELLs and make decisions on State Assessments and TELPAS. NOTE: This training does not encompass information about testing for program entry and exit or other LPAC responsibilities. Learn more and register here.

Esperanza: A Structured Multisensory Spanish Language Program

September 21-22, 2021  |  8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Learn to teach the Esperanza program that focuses on helping students develop a strong knowledge of the structure of the Spanish language. Learn how to transition the student into English by helping the student apply his or her knowledge of phonology and the rules of Spanish to the acquisition of English. This program has been used successfully with beginning readers in bilingual programs as well as with dyslexic Spanish-speaking students.  Learn more and register here.

Region 4 Bilingual ESL Virtual Conference
December 8, 2021

Educators will expand their knowledge with evidence-based information designed for working with English Learners (ELs). Presentations will be framed around culturally relevant topics that impact the affective, linguistic, and cognitive domains of ELs. Session topics will address dual language, transitioning from L1 to L2, sheltered instruction, assessment, and technology. Learn more and register here.

TExES Preparation: English as a Second Language Supplemental 154

This session will assist teachers in preparing for the ESL TExES exam as well as providing essential information for understanding how to facilitate and differentiate instruction for ESL learners. We will cover history, law, research, methodology, strategies, rational, and varied ESL programs.

• May 3, 2022  |  8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.