The primary objective of this graduate certificate is to prepare K-12 teachers who are working with English Language Learners (ELLs). Graduates of the ESL certificate will have an understanding of (1) the theoretical foundations of ESL programming, assessment and curriculum development; (2) strategies to develop language proficiency through academic content; and (3) the an understanding of the challenges and unique dynamics that this population beings to the classroom.

This certificate was designed for three reasons:

1. To support elementary and secondary teachers who are increasingly find themselves in multicultural classrooms working with English Language Learners (ELLs). This graduate certificate fulfills the coursework requirement for the State of Maine’s Endorsement 660: ESL Endorsement. (Please review the Maine Department of Education Certification Office’s ESL Endorsement requirements)
2. To help teachers ensure that ELLs accelerate their acquisition of language, literacy and content and meet K-12 State standards.
3. To provide teachers with the opportunity to explore this unique population and examine diversity, language acquisition and culture differences.

For more information please contact Mary Ellin Logue, mary.logue@maine.edu

Or visit the website, https://umaine.edu/projectreach/esl-endorsement-3/esl-graduate-certificate/