NJ Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages/
NJ Bilingual Educators
From the Editor: Roselyn Rauch, Ed.D.- A New Year with More Challenges
President’s Message: Judie Haynes
Vice President’s Message: Cassandra Lawrence: Looking Ahead to the 2012 Spring Conference
Important News from TESOL (National)
2012 Scholarships/Writing Challenges/Awards
Technology: Marilyn Pongracz- 4Teachers.org
From The Editor:
A New Year with More Challenges
By Roselyn Rauch
Here we go again. A new academic year with ever more challenges. It is unfortunate that teachers across the board continue to have so little public support and have to fight and claw their way (wow, that doesn’t sound too good) to prove their worth. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the public-at-large, including those who occupy elected seats, could really see the hard work that is put before us every day? When will those same individuals wake-up to the realization that teachers weave the fabric for the success of our society, that we are not overpaid – their thought- babysitters? I would love for them to read our issues of Voices and hear the passion and dedication that those in our chosen profession feel. I would love for them to walk in the shoes of a teacher.
This issue of Voices continues to illustrate that passion and our commitment to our English language learners.
President Judie Haynes writes about our continued need to advocate for our students by collaborating with other like-minded organizations as well as each of us being well-versed on what research shows regarding the benefits of second-language acquisition in ESL programs and foreign language learning in World Language programs. Read also about WIDA revisions.
Vice President and Spring Conference Chair Cassy Lawrence is revving our professional engines by Looking Ahead to the 2012 Spring Conference. Be mindful of deadlines for the Call for Proposals and Poster Sessions, very soon after you receive this edition of Voices!
(cont. below)
(From the Editor, cont.)
Our Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are first-rate examples of the hands-on passion and commitment of which we speak and write:
The GED Testing Center in Perth Amboy that Lynn Valenty writes about in the Adult Ed. SIG has been in operation for over 40 years; the center provides the population the opportunity for another chance at economic success. “Some students are overwhelmed with emotion…” Read the article and feel the passion of students and teachers alike.
Tina Kern, in What I Learned in Summer School, documents her frustrating experiences with teachers who still feel that a student is ready to exit programs based on a single criterion; thus, the need to educate colleagues about second language acquisition.
There is nothing more frustrating, even scary, than to have your students’ tests graded inaccurately: read Monica Schnee’s piece in the Early Childhood SIG on how to combat this potentially devastating problem.
Gladys Vega Scott is our new Higher Ed SIG representative; she writes about PARCC, a new consortium of 24 states that may, with our input, create a fairer assessment system through the Common Core State Standards.
Our Teacher Ed. Representative, Gail Verdi, had the opportunity to attend meetings related to the above mentioned PARCC (Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers) , and the Smarter Balance Assessment Consortium (SBAC), and in Washington, DC, the USDOE’s Public Meeting on Creating Valid, Reliable, and Fair Assessments for Students with Disabilities and English Learners. She also discusses “apartheid schools”, an eye-opening discussion.
Another new Executive Board Member, Claudia Plata, is our Special Education Representative. She writes about teacher sensitivity to children’s needs and modifying instruction to address student learning styles.
The Unique Challenge of High School ELLs is Caia Schlesinger’s topic. She replies to some oft-asked questions from members. And Janet Kaback, in the Secondary Bilingual SIG, is looking for others to share their frustrations and communally seek solutions.
On a lighter note, Noreen Drucker reports on the upcoming 2012 Celebration of Teaching and Learning sponsored by Channel 13 and WLIW21 at the Hilton in New York City; she has attended all previous “celebrations” and tells about that “feel-good feeling” that she walks away with each year.
On the technology front, Maggie Manson tells you how to take your class on a virtual field trip while Marilyn Pongracz informs on 7 websites for classroom use, including 4Teachers.org.
Last, but by no means least, and which should probably have been first, Karen Nemeth, our Parent/Community Action SIG Representative offers many websites in Back to School Means Welcoming Students AND Their Parents! There are many places on the Web to find support for what we do.
Be sure to read the changes on the national level in Important News from TESOL (National). As always, I encourage you to read every article in every SIG since there is so much overlapping information that can support every level in all of the important work that we do so passionately.
Have a good year!
Roselyn
Roselyn Rauch, Ed.D., is the Editor of Voices and a retired ESL/ESL Resource teacher from the Paterson Public School System. She is a consultant with ESL Unlimited.
President’s Message
By Judie Haynes
In several of my past messages, I have written about how important advocacy is to members of our organization. I have encouraged you to go out of the fields of ESL and bilingual education to learn about what is happening in education in general. Advocacy for our students and our profession is crucial in the current climate.
As NJTESOL/NJBE members, we need to support language education in all of its forms. We know how important it is for students to learn a second language. NJTESOL/NJBE shares the goals of Foreign Language Educators of NJ (FLENJ) and of The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL). For the past year, NJTESOL/NJBE has had an Executive Board member on the FLENJ Board.
Already budget cuts in N.J. have led to massive cuts in foreign languages, especially in the elementary programs. Now the Foreign Language Assistance Program (FLAP), the only federal source of funding for world languages in school districts around the country, is in danger of being cut or eliminated entirely. We need to join our world language teacher colleagues in their fight against the cut. Go to the ACTFL website and read the information on what research studies show regarding the benefits of language learning. And then write to your U.S. Senators and Representatives. Share this information with the colleagues in your school. If you have information about World Language programs that have been cut, please contact Sandy McBride.
A few NJTESOL/NJBE members have told the Executive Board about school districts that are encouraging classroom and subject area teachers to become certified in ESL so that ESL teacher positions can be eliminated. According to the Department of Education, regular content instruction, even if provided by a certified ESL teacher, does not constitute a period of ESL. The code defines ESL as follows: “a daily developmental second language program of up to two periods of instruction based on student language proficiency which teaches aural comprehension, speaking, reading and writing in English using second language teaching techniques, and incorporates the cultural aspects of the students’ experiences in their ESL instruction. A period is the time allocated in the school schedule for instruction in core subjects.“ ESL is a distinct class for English language learners that helps them develop English language skills. I am happy that school districts are supporting classroom and subject area teachers to become certified in ESL. Our ELLs spend a good deal of time each day with general education teachers so we need to all work together to provide the best education possible for our students.
Our Pre-K-K SIG Representative, Monica Schnee, writes in her SIG column that her kindergarten ACCESS tests were incorrectly scored for the second year in a row. The AMAO for English language growth is measured by spring-to-spring scores on the ACCESS for ELLs™ test. If tests are not scored properly, it affects this reporting. According to Monica, one of the problems that occurs is that when teachers leave school in June, the ACCESS for ELLs™ test scores have not yet been sent to school districts. The window for questioning the scores closes at the end of July so, if scores are questioned when teachers return to school, it is too late. Some districts have solved this problem by paying teachers to come in during July to look at scores. We want to encourage school districts to support the reporting of correct scores.
The US Department of Education announced a Race to the Top Early Learning Challenge grant competition that will focus on improving early learning and development programs for young children. This grant will support states’ efforts to increase the percentage of children in each age group of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers who are enrolled in high-quality early learning programs and to design and implement an integrated system of high-quality early learning programs and services. Any use of assessments must conform to the recommendations of the National Research Council’s (http://www.nap.edu/topics.php?topic=344) reports on early childhood. The grant proposal does not give any guidance to applicants on how to assess children who speak different languages. According to Karen Nemeth, a national expert on early childhood education for ELLs, “Children growing up with two or more languages have some concepts and experiences coded in one language, and some in another language. There is no way to effectively assess a young dual language learner in only one of their languages. We will need to see a heavy reliance on high quality observations, parent interviews and thorough portfolio-based assessment.” New Jersey’s RTT/ELC application is being prepared by staff of the Department of Education Office of Preschool.
WIDA is offering a sneak preview of its 2012 Edition of the English Language Development Standards on their website. The draft will be posted in October 2011 for comments. There is comprehensive information on their website about this new draft.
At the very least, I strongly suggest that ESL and bilingual teachers go to the website and click on “New Elements of the 2012 Standards.” This is an tutorial that is extremely clear and informative I have listed a few of the changes below.
- The way WIDA refers to the standards has changed. English Language Proficiency Standards will be changed to English Language Development Standards to emphasize the process of language development as fluid. flexible and ongoing.
- Level 2 is now called “Emerging,” not “Beginning.”
- Model Performance Indicators (MPI) are now listed by grade level, not grade level clusters, so that there is a direct link between the standard and the state common standards.
- Each strand’s MPI contains grade level topical vocabulary.
- Each strand’s MPI contains a cognitive function so that teachers can develop cognitive tasks that are inclusive of all ELLs.
- Each strand’s MPI contains a context for language use.
NJTESOL/NJBE would like to congratulate The College of New Jersey in Ewing Township and Dr. Yiqian Wu. TCNJ received a grant from the US Department of Education to help teachers of English language learners in grades K-12 better prepare for the classroom. It is one of 42 colleges in the U.S. who won this grant because they have developed promising programs to improve classroom instruction for ELLs.
Vice-President’s Message
Looking Ahead to the 2012 Spring Conference
By Cassy Lawrence
Welcome to the 2011-2012 school year! This time of year is exciting as we get know our new students, learn about their strengths and weaknesses, and make important decisions about how to best meet their needs. The possibilities are endless. We often struggle though, with the huge task ahead of us. How to do it all? Literacy requirements, math expectations, content area initiatives, technology, and everything else that’s often thrown at a teacher for full and immediate implementation – it’s enough to make your head spin! But educators of ELLs are a tough bunch. We take on these great challenges for the sake of the students who look to us to help them navigate a new language and culture. With high expectations, sensitivity, and commitment we aim for success.
The coming year’s spring conference theme, Success for ELLs Across the Curriculum, will address the varied needs of ELLs and the educators who support them. Our conference will bring educators and ELL advocates together as a community to share best practices, advice, resources, and tools. As has always been the case at our annual event, the NJTESOL/NJBE Spring Conference will also be THE place to find support and camaraderie.
Our event will take place at the Hyatt Regency in New Brunswick on May 30 and 31. The Hyatt sits in downtown New Brunswick, near several shops and restaurants. You can reach it by car or train, as the Albany Street train station is just a few blocks away. There is plenty of space in the hotel’s parking deck; please see their website for details about parking and facilities. There are also city lots nearby. We encourage you to carpool. As is customary, we’ve arranged for the hotel to offer conference attendees a special conference rate of $134 per night.
The proposal adjudication process, which will take place in early December, is very selective. Priority will be given to high-quality, high-interest, dynamic proposals that reflect the conference theme – best practices in language and content instruction, how to best address the needs of ELLs in all areas of the curriculum, technology infusion, and motivational strategies. Please consider presenting a workshop. The deadline for proposals is October 31, 2011. Proposals will be selected in December and posted in a tentative schedule on our website in January.
You can also find conference registration forms at the NJTESOL/NJBE website. Schools are advised to take advantage of the special Early Registration fees. Early registration deadline is March 1, 2012. Encourage your colleagues and new teachers to become members of NJTESOL/NJBE. Members attend the spring conference at a reduced rate. Early registration and member registration are the way to go. You can find membership forms on our website.
Please visit our website often for announcements regarding conference speakers, featured presentations, the evening event, and other breaking news about the conference. Be sure to join us on our Facebook page and Twitter for the latest news.
Until I see you at the spring conference, may this be a positively successful school year for both you and your students. ¡Adelante! Onward!
Cassandra Lawrence is Vice President of NJTESOL/NJBE and 2012 Spring Conference Chair. She is also a 4th grade bilingual education teacher in Perth Amboy.
Important News From TESOL
(Received via email)
We have exciting news! TESOL has a new name: TESOL International Association. Though the name has changed, the association will continue to be your source for knowledge, quality professional development, and important research in the field. Most important, TESOL is still your professional community, a community of more than 12,000 members representing 156 countries, and more than 100 international affiliates.
Of course, “TESOL” is still a handy abbreviation, and it’s been around for almost 50 years, so the association will continue to use it when appropriate to refer to the association as well as the field of English language teaching and learning.
So why the change?
As the demand for English language teaching has exploded worldwide, the association has evolved to support it. Thus, following many months of deliberation and discussion, the TESOL Board of Directors has recently approved a new name that more accurately reflects the mission and breadth of the organization.
In addition to the new name, the TESOL Board also recently approved a new 3-year strategic plan, a new credo, and updated core values. Later this year, you can also look forward to a newly designed and more user-friendly Web site and an expanded and redesigned TESOL Connections newsletter with new feature articles and contributions from members.
In our rapidly changing world, growth is essential. With these changes, TESOL International Association stands ready to provide you with the resources and guidance you need for your classroom, to expand your knowledge, and connect you with your peers in secondary education. The new name, along with a new look and logo, will also help the association reach out to engage with new groups and individuals to advance excellence in the field of English language teaching and learning.
When you have a moment, please visit the TESOL Blog to read an important message from TESOL President Christine Coombe. The association welcomes your thoughts and comments at Dr. Coombe’s blog and in the TESOL Community.
Rosa Aronson, PhD, CAE
Executive Director
TESOL International Association
Christine Coombe, PhD
President, Board of Directors
TESOL International Association
2012 Student Scholarships/Writing Challenges/Awards
Grades 4 and 8, High School, and Higher Education
Our Student Scholarships/Writing Challenges/Awards will be due on March 1, 2012.
This incredible opportunity for our students is one of the highlights of our Spring Conference. Check out the information on our NJTESOL/NJBE website, njtesol-njbe.org. Download an application for your grade level: 4, 8, High School, or Higher Education.
Encourage your students to enter the Writing Challenge. Start drafts soon. The practice is invaluable, and you might have a winner in your classroom!
Please note that we are announcing the scholarship information earlier than in previous years because our scholarship deadline is now March 1, 2012.
The following scholarships for our ESL/Bilingual students are available:
- 4th grade Writing Contest
- 8th grade Writing Challenge
- High School (Grade 12) Scholarship for a graduating senior
- Higher Education Scholarship
In addition we offer the following awards:
- The Elizabeth Claire Award
- Advocacy Award
- The Hector Villafañe High School Scholarship
We are looking forward to many applications for our various scholarships and awards this year. What a wonderful opportunity for our students and colleagues! Please share this information with other teachers, guidance counselors and administrators.
Good luck!
Janet Kaback and Tina Kern
Co-chairs Scholarship & Awards Committee
A Thank You
Congratulations and Thank you to David Greer!
Congratulations and Thank You to David Greer.
The Executive Board has reluctantly accepted Dave’s resignation from NJTESOL/NJBE as his personal life and professional career advance. Dave has recently moved on to an administrative position and will also be a new daddy. He served in the positions of Liaison and as Special Education SIG Representative.
Good Luck, Dave. We hope that you can return to us one day.
Technology
Favorite Websites: 4Teachers.org
By Marilyn Pongracz
4Teachers.org, http://www.4teachers.org/, is a website that can enable teachers to successfully integrate technology into their classrooms through a wide array of tools and resources. There are also tools for student activities and resources for professional development. It also links to other sites such as Academic Skill Builders, arcademicskillbuilders.com/, providing additional activities.
Among the “Family of Tools,” the “Teacher’s Tacklebox” is the most useful. Using this tool, it is easy to find online sources and lesson plans. Searching follows a series of steps. The first is to choose the topic, such as science, math, art, or language arts. Next, from within that topic, for example from science, a teacher could choose from seven different themes: earth science, chemistry, technology or others. The third choice is from about ten different topics, some of which are also in Spanish. These include links for the topic; Webquests, which involves problem-based learning using Internet resources; TracStar for teachers to set up links for their students; and Thinkquests, an online program with which students can create educational websites for other K-12 students and win prizes.
The Poster Wizard, http://poster.4teachers.org/ is also one of the best in this collection. Teachers can use it for making online worksheets, lessons, or student projects. Only the teacher’s e-mail address is required; classes and individual students are identified only by a code. In addition, the site is monitored so that no personal or identifying information is permitted.
If you create your own quizzes for the classes you teach and would like your students to be able to take quizzes online, then Quizstar, http://quizstar.4teachers.org/, is a tool to be considered. You can create quizzes and copy and edit them for different classes or for differentiated instruction. You can also share quizzes with other instructors. There is also an option for printing your quizzes with or without an answer key. This tool is recommended for children in grade three and higher.
Kids Vid, http://kidsvid.4teachers.org/, is a good, secure, video creator if you would like to motivate your students with this type of project. However, there are many steps involved and it would take some time and dedication to use successfully.
Another tool that could help your students in grades 5-12, is Persuade Star, http://persuadestar.4teachers.org/. It can be used to introduce persuasive writing through analysis of examples and to guide students as they follow the writing process with planning the essay, spelling help, and citations. It also tracks students’ use of each of the options. 4Teachers.org has fifteen different tools, all of which are described briefly on the first page of each link. Some may be useful and worth exploring depending on your needs. You may also want to visit the parallel site, http://www.4kids.org/.
Marilyn Pongracz is the Technology Coordinator for NJTESOL/NJBE and the English Language Resource Center Supervisor at Bergen Community College.
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