This class is approved by the Colorado Department of Education to satisfy the 45 hours of ELL professional development required for license renewal.

Students who are English Language Learners have very diverse backgrounds, languages, culture, educational experiences, life histories, family contexts and socioeconomic realities.  Accordingly, effective instructional strategies for ELL students are varied and complex.  This course provides a relevant, practical and accessible toolbox of tips and strategies to support English acquisition, improve access to content,  and increase both engagement and achievement for ELL students.

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

• Analyze different types of English Language Learner (ELL) students and their varied learning profiles.
• Apply practical English Acquisition strategies to improve access to content and increase engagement for ELLs.
• Implement English Acquisition strategies to increase rigor, expectations and achievement for ELLs.
• Develop diverse instructional resources and strategies to enhance English Language Acquisition, encompassing areas such as: personal relationships, grouping, vocabulary, speaking, listening, reading, writing, and differentiated assessment.

The impact of trauma on a student’s educational performance and attainment is profound, with potential influences on cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses. This advanced-level course is designed to provide educators with an in-depth understanding of trauma informed education, underlining the vital role of ensuring the physical and emotional wellbeing of all members of the school community. Upon completion of this course, educators will have the skills necessary to cultivate a trauma-responsive learning environment that emphasizes courage, empathy, and self-regulation. Furthermore, they will gain knowledge on how to shape an inclusive and supportive educational setting that addresses the unique needs of each student.

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

• Analyze the theoretical foundation of trauma-informed education by evaluating relevant research and literature.
• Create a comprehensive plan for implementing trauma-informed practices in the classroom, incorporating strategies that prioritize courage, empathy, and self-control. 
• Evaluate the effectiveness of different strategies for supporting the physical and emotional well-being of school staff and assess their impact on student outcomes.
• Synthesize knowledge of trauma-informed education to design and implement culturally responsive interventions that address the unique needs of students who have experienced trauma.