Add-on Licensure
English as a Second Language
Program Description
Overview
The English as a Second Language (ESL) (K-12) Add-on licensure program is designed to prepare ESL teachers to provide instructional support and other professional services for English Language Learners (ELLs). The teacher candidates learn to assist English Language Learners in developing their linguistic, academic, and sociocultural competencies necessary to function in the mainstream school environment.
The theme of the program is: “Teachers as advocates for learning and diversity". The program promotes ESL teachers as advocates in the following ways:
- ESL teachers are advocates of English Language Learners (ELLs) in promoting their English language competencies to successfully function in various social and academic settings.
- ESL teachers are ELLs’ advocates in promoting their spoken and written competencies in English which are necessary for academic success in schools.
- ESL teachers are ELLs’ advocates in assisting them achieve their personal goals in the school and community by using English in socially and culturally appropriate ways.
- ESL teachers are advocates of ELLs and their families as they strive to become equal and valued members in the school and community.
- ESL teachers are ELLs’ advocates in assisting their colleagues in ensuring the most effective instruction for all ELLs.
- ESL teachers are ELL’s advocates in creating a positive collaborative school environment that affirms linguistic and cultural diversity.
Admissions
There will be no new admissions for English as a Second Language add-on licensure for the 2009-2010 academic year.
ESL add-on licensure is available only to licensed teachers. Undergraduates are encouraged to take the prerequisites towards a future add-on license, which they may pursue once they are practicing teachers.