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

This course equips educators with research-based strategies to support English Language Learners in accessing academic content and developing strong language skills. Participants will explore practical approaches for building relationships, designing supportive classroom environments, teaching vocabulary, and scaffolding reading, writing, and speaking. The course also introduces technology and AI tools that enhance differentiation and instructional efficiency. By the end of the course, educators will be prepared to implement effective, standards-aligned practices that increase engagement, equity, and achievement for multilingual learners.

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

• Analyze the characteristics, classifications, and legal requirements related to English Language Learners and apply WIDA tools to inform instruction.

• Design supportive learning environments by implementing relationship-building strategies, effective classroom layouts, purposeful grouping, and culturally responsive communication with families.

• Apply evidence-based instructional strategies to teach vocabulary and to scaffold reading, writing, and speaking for multilingual learners.

• Use technology and AI tools to differentiate instruction, adapt materials, and increase accessibility for students at varying levels of English proficiency.

• Create and present an instructional lesson plan or professional development plan that demonstrates the effective integration of ELL strategies across content areas.