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Unlock evidence-based strategies to support English learners' success, bridging cultural and linguistic strengths with practical classroom techniques.
Empower Every English Learner
English learners are a growing part of U.S. classrooms, bringing rich cultural and linguistic diversity. Yet, only 3% of teachers have the specialized literacy training to support ELs effectively. AIM Institute's evidence-based approach empowers educators with simple, actionable strategies to make a meaningful impact on ELs’ language and literacy skills.
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Small Changes, Big Impact: Every Shift Counts
AIM Institute's Megan Gierka, Ed.D. and Nicole Ormandy, M.S.Ed. have identified five powerful, easy-to-implement shifts that build on English learners’ strengths. These small changes are designed to improve academic outcomes for ELs by creating more inclusive, culturally responsive classrooms.
Ready to Increase Your Impact?
Take your teaching to the next level with AIM Institute’s English Learners Course, designed to help educators unlock the full potential of every English learner. This course, developed in collaboration with renowned literacy researcher Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan, provides actionable strategies to accelerate ELs' language and literacy proficiency.
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About Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan
Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan is a bilingual speech and language pathologist, certified dyslexia therapist, and a renowned expert in literacy development for English learners. She is the President of Valley Speech Language and Learning Center and an Associate Research Professor at the University of Houston. As a published author and global speaker, Dr. Cárdenas-Hagan has dedicated her career to advancing evidence-based practices in multilingual education. Her work has shaped how educators approach language and literacy for diverse learners worldwide.
Why Choose This Course?
- Flexible, Self-Paced Learning
Complete the course in as little as 6 weeks. Choose from fully asynchronous learning or a synchronous experience with Virtual Communities of Practice sessions (VCoPs). VCoPs offer live collaboration, peer feedback, and expert-facilitated discussions to deepen your understanding. - Expert Insights from Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan
Content includes exclusive recordings by Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan. - Immediate Classroom Application
Each module in the Specialized Reading Knowledge Bundle: English Learners includes video content, assessment tools, and ready-to-use printable resources—perfect for implementing strategies right away.
Course Highlights
- Synchronous Option with VCoPs: Collaborate with fellow educators and gain real-time insights through expert-facilitated discussions.
- Hours: 13
- [NEW!] Fully Asynchronous Option: Experience the entire 3-module EL course at your own pace with no synchronous VCoPs.
- Hours: 10
- On-Demand Resources: Access a robust library of tools and materials anytime.
- Comprehensive Content: Gain specialized knowledge that applies across all subjects and grade levels.
Is This Course Right for You?
Whether you’re a classroom teacher, literacy coach, or administrator, AIM Institute's English Learners course empowers you to support ELs in any program model. It’s perfect for both individual learners through open enrollment and groups through cohorts.
Tip for New Learners
If you’re new to the science of reading or structured literacy, we highly recommend starting with AIM’s foundational courses, like Pathways to Proficient Reading, to build your knowledge before diving into this specialized course.
