Part 1: What the Research Says About English Learners
In Part 1 of this 2-part series, Dr. Antonio Fierro, Dr. Nereida Antúnez-Gamón, and Dr. Nicole Florez explore research-based understandings of English Learners and challenge common misconceptions about language acquisition, literacy development, and multilingualism. Participants will examine how beliefs about language transfer, phonics, and oral language influence instruction, and learn the importance of explicit, systematic teaching for developing language and literacy skills. Grounded in structured literacy principles, this session encourages educators to build on students' linguistic strengths, use data to guide instruction, and make informed decisions that support English Learners' success.