This book study will give English Language (EL) and Gen Ed teachers of grades K-12, as well as administrators, counselors, and other school support faculty, the chance to focus on practical applications of EL advocacy research. The course will provide participants opportunities to build empathy and experience a sense of what it feels like to be an EL. Participants will acquire a better sense of how their own classrooms, schools, and districts may advocate and work collaboratively and creatively to increase family involvement, ensure a welcoming environment, and improve instruction and assessment for their EL population.

Required Text:

• Advocating for English Learners: A Guide for Educators by Diane Fenner

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Identify “the why” of EL advocacy and what that research base supports.
• Establish and maintain EL family involvement through building their advocacy capacity.
• Develop effective EL instruction and assessment, understanding it is an imperative piece of advocacy. 
• Create opportunities for collaboration and a shared sense of responsibility for teaching EL’s.     
• Reflect on best practices for school and district administrators in EL advocacy. 
• Implement strategies for effectively advocating for EL’s beyond grade 12, including graduation, meaningful employment, and post-secondary education for all EL’s.