The English Language Learners endorsement program is designed for certified teachers in all disciplines who wish to advance their careers by meeting the highly qualified standards of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) legislation in the subject of English Language Learners (ELL). After earning an ELL endorsement, educators are prepared to meet the needs of their Limited English Proficiency (LEP) students.
The Teacher Education Program at Dana College prepares candidates to develop knowledge, skills and dispositions to effectively teach all students. The program systematically collects and analyzes data for continuous improvement and aligns with districts, practitioners, departments of the college and educational agencies to stay current and relevant. Students are expected to read the required texts, reflect on the readings, participate in online discussions and express how they do or will incorporate the skills learned into their individual teaching situations.
As our nation’s demographics change, so do the students who fill the seats in our K-12 classrooms. It is crucial that our teachers are prepared to meet the diverse needs of all students. After earning an ELL endorsement, teachers are equipped to meet the needs of English Language Learners.
The coursework is designed to prepare teachers to address the needs of ELL students. The coursework includes the following classes: Linguistics for ELL, Cross-Cultural Communication, Assessment and Curriculum Design, Methods of Teaching ELL (including clinical), and a Practicum experience. The ELL endorsement is aligned with the federal guidelines from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of English Language Acquisition, Language Enhancement & Academic Achievement for Limited English Proficiency Students (OLEA). The curriculum is also aligned with national TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) standards.
Program Requirements
- Valid regular teaching certificate
Program Benefits
- Skills: During the ELL program, students will create lessons and reflect on lessons investigated as a class, which include the instructional strategies/models learned. Students will also examine current ELL practices and programs in their districts or a nearby district with an ELL population.
- Convenience and Flexibility: The ELL program is 14 credit hours and can be completed in less than one calendar year. During this program, 100% of the courses are offered online and practicum experience is arranged for each student.
- Growth Potential: Growth in the ELL student population is projected nationwide. Those who earn the ELL endorsement may expect a salary increase based upon their school district’s salary schedule.
- Accredited Program: Dana College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Dana College also has an NCATE accredited teacher education program.
