EL Advocacy Case Study #3: Multilingual Learners in Career and Technical Education Programs
This case study is the final of three that focus on advocating for multilingual learners (MLs) during the Covid-19 pandemic. We developed this case study based on conversations we have had with teachers of MLs. We also created it based on research and best practices. Download the case study to read the complete report.
ML inequities and the impact by Covid-19
Firstly, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, a number of inequities existed for MLs. This includes a higher dropout rate, lower graduation rate, and a wide opportunity gap in comparison to their non-ML peers. A report by the U.S. Department of Education, Education in a Pandemic: The Disparate Impacts of COVID-19 on America’s Students, also demonstrated that many of the inequities that existed for MLs were exasperated by the Covid-19 pandemic. Now, in school year 2022 – 2023, the pandemic still lingers. Schools across the country are operating in-person. So, educators have the opportunity to make changes based on lessons learned over the past two school years.
Opportunities for MLs through Career and technical education (CTE)
Finally, one possible avenue for change is through career and technical education (CTE) courses and programs. CTE education encompasses courses and programs of study. This is where students acquire challenging academic, technical, and employability skills to succeed in post secondary education and in-demand careers. High-quality CTE can increase student success in high school and post secondary education. It can also accelerate workforce development. Additionally, it provides MLs with real-world opportunities to explore, engage in, and pursue rewarding careers. This case study will focus on advocating for MLs’ access to, and engagement in, CTE courses and programs.
About SupportEd
SupportEd, LLC is a woman-owned small business based in Fairfax, VA specializing in Multilingual Learners (MLs). Founded in 2011 by Dr. Diane Staehr Fenner, best-selling author and ML expert, SupportEd meticulously crafts customized solutions to fit each client’s strengths, needs, and provides teachers and administrators the practical tools necessary to champion MLs’ success within and beyond the classroom. All SupportEd team members have prior experience in the classroom which enables the SupportEd team to provide realistic, actionable solutions. Services include online and in-person immersive professional development workshops, easy-to-implement tools and resources, and an array of supporting services. Visit SupportEd.com or call (202) 660-1444 to learn more.
Upon completing her Master’s in TESOL from the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), Meghan began working as an ESOL teacher in Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) in Maryland. There she taught elementary ELs in grades K-5 for five years using pull out, push in, and co-teaching models of instruction. She then went on to serve as an ESOL Teacher Specialist for AACPS.
- Elevating Peer Learning to Foster Multilingual Learners’ Oral Language Development and Content Understanding - September 21, 2023
- EL Advocacy Case Study #3: Multilingual Learners in Career and Technical Education Programs - October 7, 2022
- Here to Stay: Effective Tools & Strategies for Multilingual Learners from Distance Learning - September 15, 2021
