2025 Spring Conference Preliminary ScheduleSee the Spring Conference page for more about the keynote speakers, registration, Awards Reception, and hotel reservations.
See below or click on one of these links for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Online Library.
Keynote: Alisha De Lorenzo
After decades spearheading groundbreaking initiatives in education, Alisha De Lorenzo has emerged as a guiding force in reshaping the way schools cut through the noise, lean into positive disruption, and solve for the disengagement, disconnection, disparities and declining morale plaguing our communities. Alisha has come to believe that the only way we fight overwhelm and burnout is not by lowering our standards or doing less, but rather, by unleashing the next level of aliveness in our people.
An acclaimed international speaker, award winning educator and therapist, Alisha has shared her insights with over 250 thousand educators from the US to Africa. Her work has been featured on PBS, NBC and NJ Spotlight News while her influence has earned her recognition from the NJ Department of Education, Monmouth University, community agencies, and government officials. In 2023 she received the prestigious Ernest L. Boyer Outstanding Educator Award from NJASCD.
Alisha’s profound understanding of the human spirit sets the foundation for schools to unlock innovation, differentiation and growth to drive engagement, productivity and high performance. Stepping into the realm of the extraordinary requires all of us to create cultures where people feel seen, heard, and valued, and that is the foundation to the aliveness we all seek.
| Title | Presenters | Session Description |
|---|---|---|
| Unleashing Aliveness: The Power of Positive Disruption | Alisha De Lorenzo - Keynote Session | Human beings are healthier, happier, more engaged, productive and contributing to the extent that they feel they matter. Through compelling research, personal stories, frameworks and practical strategies. Alisha dives into the powerful influence social significance and positive disruption has on unleashing aliveness, well-being, innovation and high-performance. |
| Cultivating a Culture of Aliveness | Alisha De Lorenzo - Keynote Breakout Session | Building on the keynote, this interactive breakout session dives deeper into creating a culture of aliveness to unleash full engagement and human potential. Discover actionable tools to foster belonging, inspire innovation, and sustain well-being. Leave equipped to spark high-impact, meaningful change. |
| Bridging Language and Content: Strategies for Multilingual Classrooms | Dr Naiditch - Invited Speaker | We will discuss the features of effective instruction that supports the development of multilingual learners’ mastery of grade-level content and language across the curriculum. We will explore pedagogical approaches and examine the role of teacher preparation for multilingual learners. |
| Policies That Support MLs | NJDOE - Lori Ramella & Jacquelyn Leon - Invited Speakers | Participants will have the opportunity to hear about current federal and state policies that support multilingual learners. There will also be time for questions and an interactive discussion to deepen your understanding of these important policies. Don't miss out on this chance to learn more and engage with experts in the field! |
| Building Confidence in Writing Using Collaborative Writing Activities | Kimberly Sharkey | This workshop is meant to help us understand what collaborative writing is and how it can benefit learners in the adult ESL classroom, to identify ways that students can build confidence in their writing by participating in collaborative writing activities, and to brainstorm and share collaborative writing activities for our adult learners. |
| Unpacking WIDA: Engaging with Key Language Uses in Action! | Jenna Maneri - Poster Session | This poster session will unpack WIDA's 2020 Framework with an emphasis on Standards 1 and 2. From there we will examine the Key Language Uses (narrate, inform, explain, argue) alongside NJSLS and share relevant and effective learning activities. |
| Creating Opportunities for Academic Conversations | Maggie Churchill | Learn how to design, create, and implement a protocol for academic conversations in your classroom using Talk Moves to increase student-to-student talk about content topics. |
| Responsive Literacy Engagement for MLs | Denise Furlong & Keri Orange-Jones | Participants will consider literacy engagement across the curriculum for MLs through a lens of culturally responsive and representative pedagogy. Actionable and immediate shifts in literacy instruction for both classroom- and district-level changes will be discussed. |
| Game on! Language Games for ESL Success | Wendi Di Gangi & Cristina Pignataro | This session is an engaging presentation designed to equip educators with a variety of fun, interactive games to support elementary ESL students in their language learning journey. |
| Improve Language Learning by Teaching Kindness to Animals | Julie O'Connor | Students, regardless of culture, are motivated to learn when animals are the focus of your lessons. This workshop unlocks the power of “humane education” --- infusing kindness to animals throughout lessons. Engage your learners while teaching your WIDA & NJSLS - based curriculum, and promote compassion towards animals. Free websites with English & home language resources & curriculum guides |
| Revised ACCESS: Same Testing Experience, Better Classroom Connections | Lynn Shafer Willner - Invited Speaker | In 2025-26, WIDA will release an updated ACCESS test that incorporates the WIDA ELD Standards Framework, 2020 Edition. During this presentation, you’ll learn about the new WIDA Expressive Language Charts that replace the Interpretive Rubrics for Speaking and Writing. |
| Integrating Structured Literacy Instruction with ELD Instruction | Lynn Shafer Willner - Invited Speaker | Learn to integrate content, literacy, and language development standards using AI tools. We’ll review recent guidance and research on applying the Science of Reading to K-12 MLs and generate standards-aligned, integrated unit goals and lesson objectives using Standards-aligned templates. |
| Literacy Foundations for ELs Book Club/PLC Discussion/Q&A | Kathryn Tepedino | Join us to discuss Elsa Cardenas Hagan's book Literacy Foundations for ELs. We will dive into key take aways for best practices in foundational literacy instruction for MLs as well as discuss and ask questions regarding teaching foundational reading skills. |
| All about Vocabulary | Gabriela Colon & Karen Herrera | In this session, participants will gain background knowledge in all things related to supporting vocabulary development. We will unpack strategies to serve a wide range of learners across various settings (ESL, Bilingual, mainstream classes). |
| Multilingual Learners in My Classroom | Karolina Mills | This presentation is designed for educators across disciplines, including general education teachers and English as a Second Language (ESL) specialists. It will dive into best practices for effectively supporting MLs in the classroom. The presentation will offer practical strategies for implementing scaffolded instruction, exploring a diverse range of pedagogical approaches, and engaging students via hands-on activities. |
| Using AI to Create Thematic Activities | Cheryl Bell - Poster Session | This poster will demonstrate how to use Artificial Intelligence to create thematic activities connected to class topics and readings for all different skill areas: vocabulary, reading, writing, speaking, listening, and grammar. |
| Co-Teaching Connection | Jennifer Mazzochi | Innovative and interactive presentation where educators will learn how to effectively communicate, interact and create a positive and enriching co-teaching environment. Everyone has special and unique work habits, strengths and ideas that when recognized can create a seamless co-teaching connection. |
| Integrating Technology in ESL Instruction | Shaban Gjoka | Join us in order to explore practical tools and strategies to enhance language learning. Discover practical applications of technology that support engagement, improve communication skills, and foster a dynamic classroom environment for multilingual learners. |
| Building Long Term Comprehension through Cornell Notes | Andrea Vallejo - Poster Session | Cornell Notes is a note-taking system that encourages active learning and comprehension growth. By structuring notes in a systematic way, it helps students organize, review, and retain information more effectively. Cornell Notes helps foster crtitical thinking for multilingual learners at different language levels while also increasing engagement during reading sessions. |
| Revitalizing Your NJTESOL/ NJBE County Chapter: Strategies and Ideas | Yasette Rodriguez & Mary Callirgos | Active and engaged chapter groups play a vital role in supporting educators, sharing resources, and fostering professional development. This session will provide practical strategies for revitalizing your NJTESOL/NJBE County Chapter group by enhancing member engagement, and building a supportive community that meets the diverse needs of educators and learners. Participants will leave with ideas to implement immediately in their own chapter. |
| "ma, me, me, mo, mu: Teaching Students How to Read in Spanish" | Abril Retana | This presentation aims to explore strategies for teaching bilingual young children how to read in Spanish. We will discuss research-based practices, effective instructional methods, and resources that can support educators in enhancing the literacy skills of bilingual children. This presentation will be given in Spanish. |
| Supporting MLs: Strategies for Early Childhood | Veronica Murillo | Explore strategies for supporting multilingual learners in early childhood. Learn how to use the Home Language Survey, create an inclusive classroom, engage families, and support home languages, fostering a language-rich, diverse learning environment. |
| Two Paths, One Goal: Launching Bilingual Programming | Michael Catelli & Jasmine Akauola | Join two experienced administrators as they share their unique journeys—one starting a bilingual program and the other a dual language program. Discover insights, challenges, and practical strategies for building successful language programs in diverse educational settings. |
| Empowering MLs and Their Families | Danie Orelien | Linden Public Schools is launching the Multilingual Learners Welcome Center (MLWC) to provide essential resources and support for MLs and families, fostering an inclusive, accessible, and empowering educational environment. This session explores the center’s goals and impact. |
| AI for Culturally Responsive Green Curriculum in ML Learning | Ana Mende | This workshop explores AI to enhance teaching for multilingual learners in green curriculum. Focus on cultural responsiveness, reflection on language barriers, and sustainable education integration into lessons. |
| Building Biliteracy Through Asset-based Assessment and Instruction | Alestra Menendez - Sponsor Session | In this session, we will discuss the importance of using a dual language (Spanish and English) assessment approach to obtain a more accurate picture of a student’s reading ability and the instructional needs to build the foundations of biliteracy. Additionally, we will also explore how explicit instruction of cross-linguistic transfer supports Spanish and English literacy development. |
| College and Career Pathways for MLs | Sybil Sanchez-Jacome & Blanca Roman | College and career possibilities are different from country to country. We created a PLC with ESL and Spanish teachers. We collaborate with our guidance office, local colleges and institutes providing opportunities for our MLs to learn about their options. |
| Empowering Multilingual Leaders Through Peer Mentorship | Sarah Stout & Jessica Duran | Examine how the ML Ambassador Program creates leadership pathways for ML students through peer mentorship, supporting cultural exchange, academic growth, and school community engagement. |
| Intersectionality: Shaping Experiences & Creating Opportunities | Allison Connolly & Kate Okeson - Invited Speakers | Participants will engage in reflection on their classroom, teaching space, and pedagogies that invite conversations about cultural connection. We will focus on what we can learn from LGBTQIA+ inclusive approaches, and how they benefit all students, no matter their identity and experience. |
| Collaboration to Meet the Needs of MLs with Disabilities | Aphrodite Dellaporta | In this workshop, we will explore how to collaborate with special education teachers and CST to support MLs with disabilities at the intersection of language acquisition and special education needs. |
| Supporting English Learners Through The Big 5 | Matthew Pyeatt - Sponsor Session | The multimodal approach to learning accommodates diverse learning preferences and reinforces learning by engaging different parts of the brain simultaneously. This session promises to equip educators with the tools needed to create a supportive, engaging learning environment for ELL students. |
| Rutgers GSE ESL Teachers Book Club | Mary Curran | Join this session to receive and share suggestions of fiction and non-fiction books that provide deep insights into our shared or silenced histories, multiple perspectives, and counter narratives of the experiences of newcomer and resettled families and putting culturally sustaining pedagogy into action. We will engage in a lively discussion of the selected book. |
| Best Practices for ML Cohorts | Sara Duca - Poster Session | This session will focus on best practices in ML cohorts within the high-intensity model. Considerations for programming and student successes will be highlighted. |
| Empowering ML Teachers: Effective Instructional Coaching Strategies | Reena Tailor & Michelle Ferreira | In this session, participants will explore evidence-based practices and coaching frameworks tailored to the unique needs of ESL teachers. The session will also focus on building collaborative coaching relationships, fostering reflective practice, and how coaches can equip teachers with strategies to promote language development and academic achievement for multilingual learners. |
| Exploring Identity and Language with Authentic Resources | Christina Buck - Poster Session | Using authentic resources such as song lyrics, photos, and social media in the world language classroom provides opportunities for multilingual learners to share and connect with others in the target language and culture and foster an appreciation of our interconnectedness. |
| Purposeful Teaching: Backward Planning for MLs Success | Natasha Welcome | Adulting is difficult for all of our students who are ‘soon to be adults.’ Adding a new language to adulting can be daunting. Our high school and college classrooms may be the final educational thrust for MLs. This interactive session will highlight how we can teach to make certain that our MLs have the language/cultural skills for workplace success. |
| When MLs are Learning Black English as a New Language | kiina dordoni | What happens when the prevalent language of the community and peers is Black English (aka African American Vernacular English or Ebonics)? This workshop explores what educators need to know about Black English and the implications for language learning and policy. |
Keynote: Dr. Patriann Smith
Patriann Smith is a Saint Lucian American expert on language and literacy who serves as professor of literacy at the University of South Florida, Tampa. As a globally recognized educational, inspirational, and motivational keynote speaker (e.g., United Nations, OECS), her research emerges at the intersection of race, language, and immigration, with an emphasis on transculturally, transracially, and translinguistically responsive literacy and assessment practices. She has authored, coauthored, and coedited 5 books, written over 150 publications, and is the recipient of numerous awards (e.g., AERA, ILA, LRA) including the Modern Language Association (MLA) of America Mina P. Shaughnessy Honorable Mention for her 2023 Teachers College Press book “Black Immigrant Literacies: Intersections of Race, Language, and Culture in the Classroom.” Her most recent authored book is “Literacies of Migration: Translanguaging Imaginaries of Innocence” (2024) published by Cambridge University Press.
President’s Awards Reception – 6:00 PM
| Title | Presenters | Session Description |
|---|---|---|
| Transcendent Imaginaries for a Raced Language of Immigration | Dr. Patriann Smith - Keynote | Current trends continue to reflect a global era where racialization of languaging functions as a mechanism for reinforcing racialization of immigrants, both through individual and institutional realities. Teachers who rely primarily on institutional guidance for teaching immigrants require awareness of how intersectionalities can be harnessed to foster holistic literacies. This awareness can, in turn, help to intentionally instantiate and sustain critical transcendent imaginaries. The presentation is informed by an MLA awarded book “Black Immigrant Literacies: Intersections of Race, Language, and Culture in the Classroom” – winner of the MLA Mina P. Shaughnessy Honorable Mention. |
| Cultivating Translanguaging Imaginaries through Transnational Nativity | Dr. Patriann Smith -Keynote Breakout Session | Current trends continue to require teachers to rely primarily on the transnational nativity of children and youth to instantiate imaginaries of the present that foster their holistic literacies. Teachers who teach immigrant and transnational as well as all youth can benefit from understanding how race, language, and migration inform their transnational nativity. In turn, they can intentionally leverage the translanguaging imaginaries of students to instantiate and sustain these literacies. The presentation is informed by an MLA awarded book “Black Immigrant Literacies: Intersections of Race, Language, and Culture in the Classroom” – winner of the MLA Mina P. Shaughnessy Honorable Mention. |
| Policies That Support MLs | NJDOE - Lori Ramella & Jacquelyn Leon - Invited Speakers | Participants will have the opportunity to hear about current federal and state policies that support multilingual learners. There will also be time for questions and an interactive discussion to deepen your understanding of these important policies. Don't miss out on this chance to learn more and engage with experts in the field! |
| Multilingual Roadmap: Your GPS for Confident Collaboration | Jenna Maneri & Daryl Perkins | Oftentimes, in districts, the responsibility falls to the ESL Teacher in each building to share their expertise and strategies with colleagues. As an ESL Coach and ML Specialist with two unique perspectives and experiences, allow us to help you navigate supporting your MLs by supporting their classroom teachers. |
| From Translation to Transformation: AI's Role in Supporting MLs in K-12 | Gonca Cosgun | Explore how AI tools go beyond translation to enhance language learning, comprehension, and engagement for multilingual learners in K-12 classrooms, creating personalized, inclusive support that empowers students academically and socially. |
| The Intersection of Reading and Meaning: Text Annotation | Maggie Churchill | Text annotation and deconstruction help build multilingual learners' capacity to make meaning during reading. This hands-on session will demonstrate how to build greater text comprehension and facilitate responses to questions during post-reading. Participants will learn the steps for text annotation and deconstruction as modeled in the 2020 WIDA Standards Framework for English language development. |
| Multisensory Math for Multilingual Learners | Kara Hart | This hands-on approach to teaching math allows newcomer and SLIFE students to understand the foundational skills and knowledge needed to grow their math skills. |
| Empowering MLs Through Personal Goal Setting | Tugba Hoguet - Poster Session | This presentation explores how personal goal setting empowers multilingual learners (MLs) by fostering motivation, self-efficacy, and academic success. Strategies for implementing goal-setting frameworks, tracking progress, and enhancing student agency will be discussed, highlighting practical applications for educators in multilingual classrooms. |
| Drop-in Session: Leveraging the Expressive Language Charts | Lynn Shafer Willner - Poster Session | Stop by to chat with a WIDA standards developer about tips for leveraging the new Expressive Language Charts. Explore how to use digital Charts to connect ACCESS scores to classroom-based assessment and instruction, communicate with colleagues, and monitor student progress. |
| AI and ELD: A Powerful Partnership | Lynn Shafer Willner - Invited Speaker | Discover how to use AI apps to create engaging, standards-based activities for multilingual learners. Learn techniques to avoid generic results and tailor AI prompts to meet specific needs, aligned with the WIDA ELD Standards Framework, 2020 Edition. |
| Dyslexia Screeners for MLs: The What, Why, and How? | Kathryn Tepedino & Amy Garner | Join us to learn what is a dyslexia screener, why should every student, including MLs, be assessed with one, and how to administer and interpret results to inform instruction. |
| ABCs of Teaching MLs in Career and Technical Education | Correen Celestine-Edwards, PhD | Creative tips and activities for teaching multilingual learners in a Career and Technical Education high school classroom. |
| Student Interpreters - Elevating Bilingualism in Elementary Students | Lea Klein - Poster Session | Multilingual families often feel unable to effectively communicate at school events due to limited English skills or nervousness. 3rd and 4th grade students as interpreters offer a low risk opportunity for parents to ask questions, understand the routines and events going on at school and feel invested in the activities their children are involved in. |
| Addressing Linguistic Discrimination in Community Colleges | Nikki Hall | This presentation explores how US higher education institutions, specifically community colleges, fail to accommodate the changing linguistic backgrounds of their students. It advocates for policies supporting MLs, emphasizing faculty training, asset-based views of multilingualism and Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Pedagogies. |
| Structured Literacy Instruction for Older Students | Elizabeth Riello-Connors | Older MLs, SLIFEs, and LTELs require explicit, systematic instruction to learn to read just as younger learners do. In this workshop, we will focus on the other three pillars of reading (vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension) and how they relate to effective literacy instruction. An overview of programs, instructional routines, and resources will be shared. |
| Creating Lessons for All Through Picture Books | Luigina Finneran | They say "a picture is worth a thousand words", so why not use it! In this session, you will learn how to use picture books to help teach thematic units that can reach ALL students in your classroom. Examples of how to use social/academic, content area and cultural vocabulary will be included. At the end you will create your own mini-lesson with books provided. |
| TESOL Lessons for People and the Planet | Nancy Sardone | Discover activities (simulations, role-playing, and more) that use environmental stewardship as an organizing theme to build disciplinary content and skills in language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. Receive lesson plans that motivate and engage MLs in real-world issues. |
| Building Emotional Resilience: SEL Strategies for Educators | Gustavo Santamaria | This interactive session equips educators with practical Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) strategies to foster emotional resilience in diverse classrooms. Participants will explore SEL’s core competencies, address challenges, and gain tools to support students’ emotional well-being. |
| Gamification and Project Based Instruction for MLs | Sara O'Hagan & Monica Del Rosario | Explore how gamification and project-based instruction engage MLs. This session provides practical strategies for integrating these approaches to enhance language acquisition, foster collaboration, and build real-world skills. Attendees will leave with adaptable tools and classroom-ready ideas. |
| Let’s Talk! Quick Tips for Teachers of Young Multilingual Learners | Nicole Hartmann | Join us to focus on our youngest multilingual learners! Preschool and Kindergarten teachers will learn targeted ways to raise the language level in their Early Childhood classrooms by exploring strategies for each play center and part of the students’ routines. |
| The Writing Process through a Dual Language Lens! | Jenna Maurer & Adriana Valdez-Rivera | We will describe the writing process in a kindergarten dual language classroom, emphasizing the steps for students to develop into fluent writers across two languages. |
| Making a Global Impact from Home: Peace Corps Virtual Service | Annelise Marshall - Poster Session | This poster presentation will discuss virtual opportunities for volunteering with the Peace Corps. The presenter will share her experience volunteering with bilingual educators in Colombia and introduce how full-time educators can participate in adaptable yet impactful remote projects. |
| Co-Planning and Co-Assessing in Dual Language/Bilingual Programs | Joan Lachance & Andrea Honigsfeld - Invited Speakers | Come join us for this interactive session with multifaceted engaging activities regarding collaboration in dual language/bilingual education contexts. We offer real-world program successes and ways to shift mindsets for multilingualism through collaborative planning and assessment. |
| Mentoring New ESL & BE Teachers: Bridging Research & Practice | Alex Guzman | This session is designed to empower supervisors and coordinators with the tools and strategies to effectively support new ESL and bilingual education teachers. Grounded in the latest research and enriched with practical applications, the presentation will focus on the unique challenges faced by educators in these roles and how thoughtful mentoring can improve teacher retention, instructional quality, and student outcomes. |
| Language Acquisition Made Practical: Multilingual Tools and Tips | Jessica Duran & Michelle Eng | In today's session, we will discuss current research and strategies to support newcomers, emergent bilinguals, and higher level MLs within the K-12 setting. These tools and strategies provide interactive, engaging ways to enhance language acquisition and comprehension, making learning more accessible and inclusive for students with diverse linguistic backgrounds. |
| Effective Strategies and Resources for Boosting Comprehension | Tina Kern | Transform your classroom with this dynamic workshop, incorporating strategies rooted in the Science of Reading to elevate listening and reading comprehension. Discover techniques and resources to boost engagement, empower diverse learners, and provide adaptable tools for differentiated instruction at all levels. |
| Addressing Needs of Secondary Level Multilingual Learners | Esther Kang & Jonida Dapi | Have you ever thought about how many crossroads Secondary MLs need to get through in their journey to proficiency Participants will engage in conversations and explore the different intersections MLs encounter. We will share specific systems of support. |
| College Readiness Now - Pathways to Student Success | Leah Carmona, Linda Scherr, Marva Cole-Friday & Chanel Cortijo - Panel | Join us to learn how New Jersey’s College Readiness Now grant program supports community colleges' collaboration with high schools to identify educational gaps and promote initiatives to ensure student persistence and increase post-secondary degree completion for students of all socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds. |
| Partnering with Your Local Library for ML Success! | Anna Rose Gable & Nathalie Levine | Did you know that school and public libraries offer a wide array of physical & digital materials, programs, and services that can help MLs and their teachers and families access language, content, and community services? Leave this hands-on workshop empowered with a plan for collaboration. |
| Maximizing Student Success: WIDA ACCESS Accommodations & Exemptions | Regina Acevedo & Nancy Schreck | Ensure that your Special Education ML students have accurate and appropriate accommodations on the WIDA ACCESS test. This workshop provides educators with practical insights and tips to provide appropriate learning, language and testing accommodations for students. |
| At the Intersection of Language and Disability | Andrea Honigsfeld & Audrey Cohan - Invited Speakers | Multilingual learners with disabilities deserve a carefully constructed, inclusive learning environment rather than disjointed services. Join us to explore how to plan intentional, cohesive learning experiences that simultaneously address their language and literacy needs and support their intersectional identities. |
| Intersectionality and Advocacy | Sonya Bertini, Kathleen Fernandez, &Jeff Hutcheson - Panel | Learn about the advocacy work of NJTESOL/NJBE and the intersections with its various partners to provide recommendations for changes to NJDOE Code including the Special Education Code. Our focus is on providing key recommendations for the New Jersey Department of Education, state legislators, and school districts regarding dually identified Special Education and Multilingual Learners. |
| Personalize Growth for MLs with Boost | Pangjua Xiong - Sponsor Session | Imagine having the precise data and learning materials to monitor student progress towards proficiency in oral language, reading comprehension, and writing. Learn how Boost provides what is needed to target specific skills for students at any English proficiency level. |
| Unlocking Language Through Multimodal Strategies | Yvonne Oronoz-Williams - Sponsor Session | This session equips educators with practical strategies to use UDL principles and scaffolding techniques, enabling accessible, multimodal instruction for multilingual learners. Participants will explore UDL, scaffolding, and designing lessons that leverage students’ strengths and interests. |
| Countering Anti-Black Racism Summer Book Study Reflection | kiina dordoni | NJTESOL/NJBE Board Members share reflections on our Summer Book Study: Black Immigrant Literacies: Intersections of Race, Language, and Culture in the Classroom by Keynote Speaker, Dr. Patriann Smith, as we model a process of learning and change. |
| Andragogy and Adult Learning Theories | Kimberly Sharkey | How often do you hear the term Andragogy when talking about adult learning? Come learn more about it and other adult learning theories that will help you understand, plan for, and assist your adult learners in meeting their learning objectives and their goals. |
| Implementation of a Part-Time Bilingual Program | Carolina Smith | With increasing Multilingual student enrollment comes the need to instill a Bilingual Education program that will meet your students where they are and increase student achievement for your district. Participants will acquire an understanding of why a part-time bilingual program is necessary, the resources and support required, and how to optimize this type of program for the linguistic and cultural competence of your multilingual students. |
| Translanguaging in Action | Christine Donatello - Poster Session | Translanguaging is becoming increasingly popular, but what does it really look like when it is in action? This poster will not only define translanguaging but will demonstrate how effective this strategy is when it is implemented with meaningful intention. |
| Implicit and Explicit Language Strategies | Jacquelyn McMahon - Poster Session | According to Second Language Acquisition, the learning of language is separated into two categories. In this presentation, we provide best practices to support language learners acquiring skills unconsciously through natural exposure, and the conscious study of grammar rules and vocabulary. |
Keynote: Missy Testerman
Missy Testerman, the 2024 National Teacher of the Year, is a kindergarten through eighth grade English as a second language (ESL) teacher who is a staunch advocate for her students, their families and her fellow teachers. Testerman served as a first and second grade teacher at Rogersville City School in Tennessee, for three decades before taking advantage of the state’s Grow Your Own initiative and adding an ESL endorsement three years ago. She currently works as an ESL specialist at Rogersville City School, where she teaches K-8 students who do not speak English as their first language and supports them in all academic areas.
In her rural Appalachian community, Testerman builds bridges between cultures – families who have been in the area for centuries and newer immigrants – through a curriculum focused on a study of Americans from diverse backgrounds, allowing students to better understand that people are inherently the same and that they all belong.
Missy plans to use her year of service as National Teacher of the Year to empower teachers to advocate for students and fellow educators by using their voices and sharing their experiences with those outside of the classroom. Testerman believes strongly in teachers embracing their role as education experts to inform decision-makers of today’s classroom experiences to meet all students’ needs.
| Title | Presenters | Session Description |
|---|---|---|
| We Are All Multilingual Educators | Missy Testerman -Keynote Session | This keynote will highlight the crucial contributions of all educators, regardless of their subject area specialties, to educating multilingual learners by exploring the power of maintaining high expectations for every student who walks through our classroom doors. |
| Welcome to My Real World | Missy Testerman -Keynote Breakout Session | This session offers strategies for inclusive, dynamic teaching practices that engage our young multilingual learners in listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities that promote skill improvement while building confidence needed for both academic success as well as language acquisition. |
| Policies That Support MLs | NJDOE - Lori Ramella & Jacquelyn Leon - Invited Speakers | Participants will have the opportunity to hear about current federal and state policies that support multilingual learners. There will also be time for questions and an interactive discussion to deepen your understanding of these important policies. Don't miss out on this chance to learn more and engage with experts in the field! |
| Forming or Changing our Adult MLs Learner Identity | Kimberly Sharkey | What is your identity as a learner? Do you think your adult learners see themselves as learners? Come learn about learner identity, how our learners can form or change theirs, and what do we do with learner identity to help us better instruct our learners. |
| The Art of Cheeseburgering: Getting Struggling Students to Write! | AnnA Gomez | Do you want your students to achieve higher writing scores and have the confidence needed to become strong writers? Are you looking for a tool that can be scaffolded and differentiated to reach all learners? It's here! This presentation will offer a scaffolded approach with a step-by-step process that will get all students writing paragraphs-and all you need is a cheeseburger! |
| Language Unlocked: Exploring the Magic of Two Tongues! | Mary Callirgos | Join us in this session, where metalinguistic awareness in dual language classrooms will be discussed. Come and find out about some engaging activities and strategies that help enhance phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics while empowering students to thrive in both languages. |
| Best Practices for Supporting MLs | Sally Wilson & Emily Cyrier | This presentation provides clear guidelines for creating a supportive classroom environment and avoiding common pitfalls when working with multilingual learners. |
| Improving Literacy Outcomes for MLs | Kelly Yang & Michelle Wind | It is important to identify students who struggle with reading early and provide appropriate interventions, especially for MLs. This workshop will provide an overview of research into how MLs learn to read. Participants will leave with a variety of evidenced-based strategies to support ML students with phonemic awareness, decoding, fluency, and comprehension including vocabulary and morphology. |
| Becoming an MLs Bridge to Success: Support Strategies for Educators | Dawn Floyd & Cindy Jimenez | In this workshop, discover effective strategies to support young multilingual learners by integrating foundational skills, language proficiency, and grade-level standards. Learn how to become a bridge to success for your students and empower them to thrive academically and linguistically. |
| Building and Maintaining a Responsive Classroom to Meet WIDA Standards | Lisa Rose Johnson | Creating a Responsive Classroom is a necessary best practice. The three goals of this session are to (1) share research-based strategies to support social-emotional learning, (2) demonstrate how to integrate SEL into an MTSS, and (3) facilitate morning meetings as described by Denton and Kriete. |
| Expanding MLs’ Expressive Language using WIDA Language Features | Maggie Churchill | Use new WIDA tools and learn how to create your own in order to expand students’ expressive language development. See how to develop MLs’ language with WIDA Expressive Language Charts and create-your-own Discourse Anchor Charts. |
| Unpacking WIDA: Engaging with Key Language Uses in Action! | Kathryn Tepedino - Poster Session | This poster session will unpack WIDA's 2020 Framework with an emphasis on Standards 1 and 2. From there we will examine the Key Language Uses (narrate, inform, explain, argue) alongside NJSLS and share relevant and effective learning activities. |
| Teaching English Through a Social Studies Lens | Gloria Culmone - Poster Session | Explore strategies for supporting MLs in developing language skills through a social studies unit on Native Peoples of North America. Discover effective methods for integrating reading, writing, listening, and speaking while scaffolding language functions for diverse proficiency levels. |
| Co-Teaching MLs in the Mainstream Classroom | Kathryn Suter & Danielle Katz | Best practices, strategies, and resources will be shared that can be used to support MLs and all students in the mainstream content-area classroom. The presenters were last year's winners of the Barbara Tedesco Collaboration Award. |
| Charting New Territory: A Journey to Leadership | Keith Perkins & Yiashira Cosme | Unsure about transitioning from the classroom to a leadership role? Come learn strategies from a current supervisor and instructional coach for navigating challenges and developing a vision for meaningful impact as a school or district-wide advocate for multilingual learners. |
| Membership for All! | Maggie Churchill & Joan Pujol | With conference attendance, everyone is a member of NJTESOL/NJBE! Come learn about member benefits and opportunities to grow your relationship with the only organization for bilingual and ESL professionals in New Jersey. |
| Building School Partnerships with Families of MLs | Dr. Nurka Nieves | Research has shown that parental involvement impacts student achievement considerably. Sustainable efforts and impactful programs of authentic family engagement are the overarching objectives of this interactive presentation. Action plans for administrators, educational services personnel, and teachers to implement will empower MLs' families to support at-home learning and enrichment opportunities. |
| Strategies for Supporting Children's Vocabulary During Centers | Mary Alice Bond | This workshop will train educators to implement evidence-based strategies for building vocabulary and language skills during center time. Participants will learn strategies for introducing children to new vocabulary words, and strategies for integrating vocabulary words during center time. |
| Strategies for Supporting MLs in Preschool Classrooms | Laurence Gander | Come join this session in order to understand the unique needs and strengths of ML preschool students; explore strategies for fostering an inclusive, language-rich classroom environment; learn techniques for engaging families and incorporating students' cultural and linguistic backgrounds into the curriculum and develop actionable plans to support ML's language development and overall well-being. |
| Creating a Culturally Competent Community | Lisa Chiavuzzo | Lisa Chiavuzzo will host conversations on how to create and maintain engaging, inclusive and impactful communities that promote cultural competency while detaching from implicit bias. |
| ESL Supervisors and Teachers Collaborating to Support Families & Staff | Ashley Singh & Nicole Sanyigo | Join us to learn about ways that ESL Supervisors and ESL Teachers in Neptune Township collaborate to support ML students, ML families, and all staff. Together, we will present on how we monitor student growth, engage families in our schools and the community, and provide effective support to staff. |
| Title 1 Schools & Wrap-Around Services, a Guide | Genesi Miles & Giselle Perez | This workshop will explore strategies that support student and family success in Title 1 Schools. We will discuss how to leverage community resources to support Title 1 goals, as well as specific approaches to increasing family engagement. |
| Supervisor SIG and NJPSA Meeting | Keith Perkins & Andrea Fontenez | We will discuss current topics including changes in the NJ Bilingual Educator Code, revised federal guidelines, and multi-tiered systems of support for MLs. |
| Strategies for Teaching the Holocaust to MLs | Hana Prashker & Sonya Bertini | This workshop will discuss the integration of Holocaust education into bilingual and ESL classes. Participants will be given suggestions as to how to provide accommodations and modifications for MLs so that they can fully access resources associated with this topic. |
| Empowering MLs: Utilizing AI Tools for Effective Scaffolding | Meri Petkovska | This session outlines AI tools for scaffolding in classrooms, focusing on WIDA ELD Levels. It aims to help educators use platforms like Magic School, Diffit, Brisk, Mizou, Napkin and ChatGPT to support multilingual learners through tailored resources and differentiated instruction. |
| Productive Struggle: Advancing Proficiency & Meeting Content Standards | Kimberly Cruz-Garcia | Explore the concept of "productive struggle" in the context of language acquisition and academic achievement. Learn how to unpack content and WIDA ELD standards to develop instruction that will challenge students to push beyond their current linguistic capabilities and access and meet grade-level standards. |
| Increasing Literacy Skills for Multilingual Learners | Michelle Land | We assume literacy, the ability to read and write, is taught around the world to all students yet students come to the US with limited or interrupted education. This presentation demonstrates strategies to increase literacy skills for MLs. |
| Fostering Global Citizenship in the Secondary ML Classroom | Elizabeth Farro | Students in the Secondary ML classroom often focus so much on building language skills within their specific content areas, that they do not learn how to apply these skills to the greater world around them. Through this presentation, we will explore various ways to encourage MLs to become engaged with the real world, and apply their knowledge and passion towards making positive changes in their communities, and hopefully, the world. |
| UDL Strategies for MLs with Disabilities | Aphrodite Dellaporta | Discover how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can transform your teaching! This workshop will equip educators with practical UDL strategies, real-world examples, and resources to create inclusive, accessible learning environments for MLs with disabilities. |
| New Beginnings: Easing the Transition for ELL Students and Families | Gina Long - Sponsor Session | Imagine stepping into a new school in a foreign country where everything—from the language to the classroom routines—feels unfamiliar. How can schools create a welcoming and empowering learning experience for newcomers from day one? In this session, we’ll explore strategies to support in-school newcomer learning, including innovative instructional approaches, classroom integration techniques, and professional development for educators. |
| 4 Pathways to Better Speaking and Listening | Jennifer Bastedo - Poster Session | This poster session will include four different ideas to promote speaking and listening growth for MLs. Two out of the four activities I'll share are technology-based. Please bring a computer with you if you'd like to test out the technology-based speaking and listening activities. |
| Constructing Identities Through Translanguaging | Alia Hadid | Translanguaging fosters an asset-based perspective, enabling teachers to create inclusive learning environments. It helps students feel proud of their cultures and identities. This presentation emphasizes the benefits of translanguaging in allowing students to express themselves fully while becoming active learners. |
| Growing Critical Advocacy Efforts for Multilingual Learners | Kate Seltzer & Rebecca Linares - Invited Spreakers | This interactive session is for advocates for multilingual learners who wish to evolve their approaches to advocacy. Presenters will engage participants in hands-on activities and conversations about how to develop what they call critical advocacy efforts. |
| Engaging SEL Strategies for Student Success | Myriam Saint-Jean - Poster Session | Explore Social-Emotional Learning through engaging emotion mapping and storytelling activities. Gain practical strategies to support multilingual learners, strengthen relationships, and cultivate social awareness. Bring SEL to life with real student work and actionable ideas you can apply within your lessons! |
| Multilingual Learners and Teacher Candidates as Partners | Shawna Taylor | The Chat with Me research project pairs undergraduate teacher candidates with MLs to examine and reduce implicit bias, enhance language skills, and foster intercultural understanding. My presentation will discuss results and applications in education. |
| Rethinking Hispanic Heritage and What it Means to Be Latin@ | kiina dordoni | Let's talk about race, ethnicity, and the ways that language serves as a proxy for race. Whose identities are centered? Erased? Considering conversations since the post-election results, let’s scratch the surface of a critical topic reflecting our largest group of MLs: Latin@s. |
| Scaffold UP to Curriculum using PWIM | Jenna Maneri - Poster Session | This poster will highlight the strategy of using Picture Word Inductive Model (PWIM), which is grounded in research, to scaffold UP to content area curriculum that MLs need equitable access to in Grades K-12. |
Access starting on May 27th through August 21st
By using your unique login, your hours will be tracked so that you can earn PD hours through August 26th.
More workshops will be added.
| Title | Presenters | Session Description |
|---|---|---|
| Multilingual Roadmap: Your GPS for Confident Collaboration | Jenna Maneri & Daryl Perkins | Oftentimes, in districts, the responsibility falls to the ESL Teacher in each building to share their expertise and strategies with colleagues. As an ESL Coach and ML Specialist with two unique perspectives and experiences, allow us to help you navigate supporting your MLs by supporting their classroom teachers. |
| Brain Breaks: Energize, Engage, and Build Community in Your Classroom! | Rachel O'Neill | Attendees will practice, explore, and share brain break strategies to keep students engaged and interactive. This workshop is applicable to all content areas. Attendees will leave the workshop with examples of and resources for energizing, calming, creative, and collaborative Brain Breaks for all types of classrooms and all learners. |
| The Intersection of Reading and Meaning: Text Annotation | Maggie Churchill | Text annotation and deconstruction help build multilingual learners' capacity to make meaning during reading. This hands-on session will demonstrate how to build greater text comprehension and facilitate responses to questions during post-reading. Participants will learn the steps for text annotation and deconstruction as modeled in the 2020 WIDA Standards Framework for English language development. |
| At the Intersection of Language and Disability | Andrea Honigsfeld & Audrey Cohan - Invited Speakers | Multilingual learners with disabilities deserve a carefully constructed, inclusive learning environment rather than disjointed services. Join us to explore how to plan intentional, cohesive learning experiences that simultaneously address their language and literacy needs and support their intersectional identities. |
| Strategies for Supporting Children's Vocabulary During Centers | Mary Alice Bond | This workshop will train educators to implement evidence-based strategies for building vocabulary and language skills during center time. Participants will learn strategies for introducing children to new vocabulary words, and strategies for integrating vocabulary words during center time. |
| Increasing Literacy Skills for Multilingual Learners | Michelle Land | We assume literacy, the ability to read and write, is taught around the world to all students yet students come to the US with limited or interrupted education. This presentation demonstrates strategies to increase literacy skills for MLs. |
| Co-Planning and Co-Assessing in Dual Language/Bilingual Programs | Joan Lachance & Andrea Honigsfeld - Invited Speakers | Come join us for this interactive session with multifaceted engaging activities regarding collaboration in dual language/bilingual education contexts. We offer real-world program successes and ways to shift mindsets for multilingualism through collaborative planning and assessment. |
| Intersectionality and Advocacy | Sonya Bertini, Kathleen Fernandez & Jeff Hutcheson | Learn about the advocacy work of NJTESOL/NJBE and the intersections with its various partners to provide recommendations for changes to NJDOE Code including the Special Education Code. Our focus is on providing key recommendations for the New Jersey Department of Education, state legislators, and school districts regarding dually identified Special Education and Multilingual Learners. |
| Supporting Multilingual Learners: Strategies for Early Childhood | Veronica Murillo | Explore strategies for supporting multilingual learners in early childhood. Learn how to use the Home Language Survey, create an inclusive classroom, engage families, and support home languages, fostering a language-rich, diverse learning environment. |
| Strengths-Based Speaking with Parents of Struggling Students | Allison Gollin | Discover how to leverage students' strengths to build productive partnerships with parents of academically struggling students. This session offers practical strategies to identify strengths, reframe conversations, and engage parents as active allies in their child's educational journey. |
| Cliche-Free Classroom Management | Adnan Ezad | No cliches; no platitudes. Effective classroom management strategies that are rooted in psychology and minimize teacher paperwork and stress. Discipline is often cumbersome, resulting in punishments for both students and teachers. Learn about alternatives to ineffective consequences like detentions, which, like all punitive measures, are punitive for both student and teacher alike. |
| AI Hacks: Leveraging AI for Effective Scaffolding and Supports | Rachel O'Neill | Discover how AI can scaffold materials and support all learners in this hands-on workshop. Learn time-saving hacks and features designed for educators. Attendees will explore AI resources and leave with ready-to-use materials to support learners immediately upon returning to their classrooms! |
| Bridging the Gap with Screencastify | Cara Caruso | Come and learn how to leverage Screencastify in order to effectively communicate with families and enhancing student engagement! |
| The Effects of Working Memory on Multilingual Learners and Reading | Mary Quiroz & Stephanie Ross | This workshop is designed for elementary level, multilingual learners (MLs). These trategies can also be applied to beginner MLs at the middle school level who are learning to read. |
| Implementing Literacy Centers into Your Daily Routine | Johanna Mozo | Literacy centers offer meaningful learning experiences where students work independently or collaboratively to meet literacy goals. This presentation will show you different types of literacy centers and how you can implement them into your classroom. |
| Empowering Multilingual Learners through Innovative Technology | Nadia Ramcharan & Sara Longo | Thomas Jefferson Intermediate School in Trenton serves a diverse multilingual population and uses innovative technology to boost student achievement and support language acquisition. This discussion will showcase how our students leverage these tools to enhance their academic performance and classroom engagement. |
| Providing Speaking "Maps" for Common Campus Interactions | Robyn Brinks Lockwood | Students are taught how to write. However, we don’t give this same attention to speaking and students struggle. But speech events follow “moves” just as writing does and need to be taught. This session shares the “moves” for common interactions. |
| NJTESOL/NJBE Parent Resources | Kathleen Fernandez | NJTESOL/NJBE works to support teachers in helping parents understand New Jersey schools' regulations and programs. This presentation demonstrates resources to share with parents, available on NJTESOL/NJBE's Parent Resource webpage and Parent Expo YouTube page. These materials are available for use individually or at parent meetings. |
| PreK-5 Dual Language Program Design and Implementation | Andrea Fontenez & Damian Medina | Discover key strategies for designing and implementing a successful PreK-5 Dual Language Program. This session will explore program models, curriculum alignment, bilingual teacher development, and fostering biliteracy to promote academic success and cultural competence for MLs. |
| Bringing the Science of Reading to Light for MLLs | Elsa Mena | The path to reading success starts with the science. Participants will learn tips and tools on the science of reading for Spanish Speakers in phonemic awareness, phonics, and vocabulary to build proficient readers. |
| Supporting the Science of Reading for Emergent Bilinguals | Andrea Mae - Sponsor Session | Discover the significance of equitable instruction for the expanding Multilingual Learner population in U.S. schools. Examine the science of reading's impact on language acquisition and promoting educational equity for students mastering English and their native languages. |
| Colorín Colorado’s ELL Strategy Library: Tools for Teaching Every Proficiency Level | Silvia Pereira - Sponsor Session | Learn more about the popular new ELL Strategy Library from Colorín Colorado, the nation’s leading ELL website! Discover ideas for using and sharing the strategies with English Language Learners (ELLs) of all proficiency levels, as well as ideas for co-teaching and professional development. |