Empowering Multilingual Learners: Teaching Academic English in Every Classroom K-12
Educators from across Van Buren, Cassopolis, and Berrien counties recently gathered for a dynamic two-day training session titled “Empowering Multilingual Learners: Teaching Academic English in Every Classroom K-12.” Facilitated by Laura Kronk, VBISD Multilingual Learner Consultant and Coach, and Zenia Gutierrez, VBISD Migrant & Multilingual Teacher, the training brought together 40 passionate K-12 educators committed to enhancing their instructional practices for multilingual learners.
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Day 1: Building Foundations
Laura Kronk led participants through an exploration of how to best support multilingual learners (MLs) in their classrooms. Educators discussed strategies for creating inclusive learning environments and providing meaningful support, even when teachers do not speak the same native language as their students.
Key topics included:
- Best practices and research-based strategies for implementing linguistic support.
- Techniques for engaging students in learning both English and academic content simultaneously.
- Methods to provide strategic opportunities for students to use academic English vocabulary in authentic contexts.
Day 2: Collaboration and Application
On the second day, Zenia Gutierrez joined Kronk to offer deeper insights into multilingual education. Educators explored how to gamify language learning, making lessons both interactive and effective. Technology integration was also a focus, with practical applications shared for enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.
Participants left the training equipped with actionable strategies to:
- Foster meaningful communication with multilingual learners.
- Encourage active participation through gamified learning experiences.
- Provide intentional and ample opportunities for students to practice academic English.
A Collaborative and Fun Experience
The two-day event wasn’t all work and no play! Educators enjoyed collaborative activities, shared experiences, and embraced the opportunity to connect with peers dedicated to supporting multilingual learners.
Empowering Multilingual Learners: Teaching Academic English in Every Classroom K-12 served as a reminder of the vital role educators play in fostering academic growth and language development for all students. With new tools, insights, and renewed enthusiasm, participants are now ready to bring these impactful strategies to their own classrooms.
Here’s to continued learning and celebrating multilingualism in our schools!
