Develop a position statement that describes your core beliefs, values, and views about teaching students learning English as second language. What do you believe is most important about teaching ESOL students? What current trends and issues in the field of second language learning impact schooling for ELLs? How do you propose addressing those in your language classroom?

Your position statement must include not only personal principles regarding teaching. These need to be based in the theoretical knowledge base and reflect an understanding of critical issues in learners, schools, and society that affect the teaching and learning of ELLs. Describe how you will continue to develop professionally as a TESOL advocate in the coming years.

You should respond specifically to the following questions:

1. How does your understanding of history, research, and current practice in the field of TESOL inform and improve your own teaching and learning about the field? (Cite history of federal and state support for English language learners, review current requirements for English learners under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), etc. to support your stance). (TESOL 5a)

2. How do you advocate for ELLs and build partnerships with students' families? How can you empower families to be actively involved in their children's education?

3. Reflect on the funds of knowledge students bring from their homes and the community. How do you build a classroom in which students' linguistic and cultural diversity is valued and promoted?

4. How do you collaborate with and serve as a resource to all staff, including paraprofessionals?