Language & Culture

• EL Coordinator Services
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  EL Coordinator Services

  Since school districts are required to have a licensed EL person supporting the EL programming and services, we offer two types of EL coordinator services your district is not staffed to meet this obligation: direct delivery of services, e.g., EL testing, tutoring; and one that is more directive or administrative, e.g. data analysis. We can:

  • Assist your district with meeting legal requirements for educating English Learners including instruction, assessment, bilingual programming, screening, and developing individual learning plans.

  • Support your staff with effective and ready-to-use teaching strategies and implementation of WIDA English Language Development Standards.

  • Connect your staff with students & families through culturally responsive education.

• Interpreting and Translating Services
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  Interpreting and Translating Services

  To assist districts in meeting their responsibility to engage with families in a language they understand, CESA Purchasing has partnered with SWITS for translating and interpreting services. SWITS provides over 40 languages and has certified interpreters and translators. Visit cesapurchasing.org/swits to learn more! Mention CESA Purchasing to receive discounted pricing.

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• Network Cafeteria Plan
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  Network Cafeteria Plan

  The Language and Culture Center offers robust learning and engagement opportunities through our networks, designed to improve outcomes for multilingual learners by facilitating the exchange of ideas among members on topical research, policies, and practices. Our core network and added virtual networks cover essential topics such as ELD standards, translation services, bilingual education, Newcomers, EL programming essentials, and family partnerships. To ensure our services align with district priorities, we conduct an annual needs assessment. Membership in the EL Networks provides access to four yearly core network meetings (available both online and in-person), choice virtual networks, consulting services, informative newsletters, supplemental resources, and discounted specific professional learning sessions.

  • Core EL Network: Our Core EL Network delivers high-quality support and development for districts and teachers with culturally diverse students. In addition to addressing Title III legal requirements, it also promotes resource and expertise sharing. The network features four full-day events, including a book study on effective practices, with both virtual and in-person attendance options.

  • Virtual Add-on Networks: These are high-interest focus area networks. Each meets four times annually for 1 ½ to 2 hours. Network topics: Multilingual Family and Community Partnership Network, Dual Language/Bilingual Bicultural Network, Translator/Interpreter Network, WIDA Standards Network, Newcomers and Recently-arrived Secondary Students Network.

• Professional Learning
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  Professional Learning

  Our goal is to help districts create learning environments that help students thrive and support districts’ in every stage of professional development within the CESA 2 Capacity Building Framework.

  Key Topics: Our services are as varied as the districts we serve. We specialize in areas such as supporting newcomers, translanguaging, co-teaching, culturally inclusive practices, program design, assessment, EL data, and unit and lesson planning for both English and dual language settings. 2024-25 Featured Topics:
  
  • WIDA Standards: We specialize in training both classroom content teachers and EL/Bilingual specialists on integrating WIDA standards for effective instruction.
  
  • Science of Reading: Our training focuses on implementing the Science of Reading for English learners and dual language learners equipping educators with practices that support both science of reading and promote multi-language literacy and learning.
  
  • Coaching for Dual Language: Since most instruction is in English, educators and their leaders who work within dual language programs can benefit from explicit support centered around the unique needs of students learning within and across languages.

• Program Review and Design
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  Program Review and Design

  Districts have a responsibility to provide effective programs for multilingual learners. We provide specialized support in crafting effective programs for multilingual learners. Start with a detailed needs assessment or comprehensive program review. Or consider one of our tailored services to address your district's specific needs. This may include data analysis, English Language Development Plan design, specific lesson and unit planning, on-site consultations, and strategic planning for English learners or bilingual students.