Navigating the ELPS:  Using the New Standards to Improve Instruction for English Learner
In 2006 the Texas Education Agency assembled a group to review and revise the ESL standards.  The result was the new English Language Proficiency Standards that went into effect in December of 2007.  The standards describe the instruction that districts need to provide for English language learners so that they can successfully master both content area knowledge and academic  language.  Unlike the former ESL standards, the new standards clearly indicate that the ELPS are to be integrated into each subject of the required curriculum.   This training will provide teachers, administrators, and specialists an easy process for moving ahead with implementing the standards.  Teachers will receive a copy of the book "Navigating the ELPS" which includes a brief introduction into what kind of instruction is required for English learners, an outline of district responsibilities, cross curricular student expectations, and language proficiency level descriptors.