Hello fellow VATESOL members and allies.

I am Lisa Johnson the VATESOL Blog Editor, and advocate for English Language Learners.

Are you looking for a summer book club to help you get ready to start your next school. Do you want to make your classroom more responsive but are not sure how? 

This summer I will lead a book club for educators and allies.

We will be reading Paula Denton and Roxann Kriete's the First Six Weeks of school. Asa group we will come together and discuss the text and how we can build social emotional learning activities into our practice.

If you are interested we will meet in late July and 2 times in August via Zoom.

If you want to learn more about the book and the authors you can read more here.

You may order the book for anywhere books are sold but I prefer Abe.com or Alibris.com for affordability.

The ISBN # is 9781892989048

If you are interested in joining  kindly complete the Google form here by July 15th.

Call for Proposals The Call For Proposals for our 2025 Fall Conference remains open! We love to offer a diverse set of presentations from our wide range of membership, so all are welcome and encouraged to submit by July 15. Conference Theme Advocating for Excellence in Multilingual Education

Submit a Proposal

Demystifying proposal writing for VATESOL 2025: Advocating for Excellence in Multilingual Education

VATESOL is thrilled to host our annual conference, Advocating for Excellence in Multilingual Education, in Richmond on November 13–14, 2025. Whether you are a classroom teacher, researcher, or community advocate, we invite you to participate — as both attendees and presenters! As a member of the VATESOL Board of Directors, I am excited to share practical tips to support your proposal writing and encourage you to submit your session idea by June 30.

1. Access the Proposal Submission Link

To access the proposal submission link, go to the VATESOL website at https://vatesol.org/conferences and locate the “Submit a Presentation Proposal” embedded link. Then fill out your demographic information and choose your preferred presentation format: 20-minute session, 45-minute session, or 90-minute workshop.

1. Review the Proposal Rubric 

Once you opened a presentation proposal form, you will be able to see the link for the rubric. We use the rubric to review proposals and provide ratings and feedback. As you write your session proposal, ask yourself the following questions:

• Does the proposal title clearly describe the session?

• Is the proposed topic timely and/or appropriate?

• Is the session based on best practices within the TESOL field?

• Is the proposal abstract clearly written?

• Will this session positively contribute to the conference and the TESOL field?

• Does this proposed session align with the theme of the conference? 

1. Key Proposal Components

The following elements are required for each proposal submission. 

• Title (11 words) – Having a clear title connected to the world of multilingual education makes it easier for attendees to choose the sessions they are interested in.  Capitalize the first letter of the title, and all major words with four or more letters, including words after a hyphen, slash, or colon. Do NOT include presenters’ names, the names of institutions, or the names of your publications or published works.

• Abstract (50 words) - The abstract should describe the content of your session as clearly and succinctly as possible and highlight what attendees should expect to take away from the session. This will be printed in the conference program, so please proofread carefully. Do NOT include presenters’ names, the names of institutions, or the names of your publications.

• Description (200 words) - The description should include a clearly stated purpose and point of view with supporting details and examples, and evidence of knowledge of current theory, practices, research and/or policy.  Be sure to outline the session with an appropriate amount of content for the allotted time and indicate the target audience and student population(s).  Do NOT include presenters’ names, the names of institutions, or the names of-your publications.

1. In sum, focus on three important elements

To ensure your proposal is accepted, we encourage you to pay attention to the theme of the conference, rubric, and anticipated audience. Remember that no identifiable information can be stated in the title, abstract, and description. 

Ready to share your work and advocate for multilingual learners? Submit your proposal today and join us in Richmond on November 13-14 this year!

Katya Koubek

Communications Chair 

VATESOL

Finishing Strong

Dr. Jana Moore, VATESOL K-12 SIG Leader has been teaching in the ELL classroom for 25 years, abroad and within, the US. Her specialties include working with newcomers as well as long-term English language learners, in addition to identifying gifted multilingual learners. Dr. Moore currently serves as the English Learner Program Lead for over 600 English language learners at Parkside MS in Prince William County, VA.

For many of us in the K-12 ELL classroom, we are coming to the part of the school year that seems to have a lull. The ACCESS test has been given; we are waiting for the test results. State testing, whether SOLs or benchmarks, are in full swing to help determine how much our learners accomplished for the year. It almost feels as though there is a pause. There is still plenty of curriculum to be taught, but most students and school staff are already starting to think about and plan for summer vacation (Guilty! I may have started my summer planner already!). But this is exactly the time when we need to be thinking forward and push for a strong finish. Some of the best finishes I have ever seen have come from classrooms that took the time to go back and reinforce some basics. Here are just three suggestions of things we can all do in our classrooms to keep our students rolling towards success as the school year draws to a close.

Encourage Speaking

Students love to talk to each other, so take advantage of this! Keep your students talking to each other, and you, in as many different ways as you can. Encourage them to use complete sentences as a means to practice good academic vocabulary with each other. Activities such as Think-Pair-Share, Gallery Walks, or Student Reports are all ways that students can talk. As an added bonus, I like to bring in Game Days with my students. During this time I have several selections of language, critical thinking, and math games for my students to choose to play. My rule? If you can say it in English, then you have to do it. Even my most reluctant speakers will try a few lines in English for a chance at Game Day.

Encourage Reading

This one cannot be overstated enough: keep your students reading. Work towards developing that love of reading, and not necessarily reading for a particular standard. Use this time to teach students how to find genres they love, and those they do not. We can teach our students to return books that they do not find interesting, and find those stories their minds and imaginations crave. Now is the perfect time to work on this skill, because it can continue into the summer, when they are on their own. Help them get library cards or learn to find books online: set learners up for a successful summer of reading.

On behalf of Virginia TESOL, we deeply appreciate the dedication, love, and advocacy that all of our stakeholders continue to provide for multilingual learners and their families all across our Commonwealth.

In response to recent federal orders and policy changes, Virginia TESOL has compiled a list of resources to support educators in responding to concerns related to immigration. Additional resources and updates can be found on the TESOL Advocacy website.

General Guidelines:

• Important Note: Many students do not know their immigration status or their family’s status.

• School is a Safe Space: Reinforce that schools are safe and welcoming environments for all students, regardless of immigration status. 

• Stick to the Facts: Share factual information about the school’s role, federal/state policies that guide schools, and legal obligation to serve students.

• Lau v. Nichols: 1974 Supreme Court case ruled that English learners have the right to participate meaningfully in public education and should receive additional English language development support. 

• Plyler v. Doe: 1982 Supreme Court case ruled that K-12 schools cannot forbid undocumented students to enroll, nor should we “chill” their school enrollment by asking uncomfortable questions around immigration status, social security numbers, visas, etc.

• FERPA: Schools are not allowed to disclose private information. Our schools do not keep documentation status as part of school records.  Information cannot be disclosed to ICE or anyone else without parental consent or a subpoena.

• Acknowledge Concerns: Validate emotions and fears expressed by students, families, and community members, while focusing on constructive actions.

• Stay Neutral Yet Compassionate: Avoid explicitly opposing political figures or agendas while advocating for the well-being and rights of students. 

Key Messages for Students:

1. You Belong Here: "Our school is a place for everyone, no matter where you're from."
2. Support Is Available: Share resources like counselors and community organizations.
3. Stay Informed: Encourage students to rely on trusted adults for information instead of rumors or social media.

4. Empower Advocacy: If appropriate, suggest safe and productive ways to express concerns or seek help.

Resources for Schools

• Guidance for Protecting Students’ Rights & Privacy

• Answering Immigrant Student’s Questions

• How to Talk to a Child Worried About Deportation

• Strategies to help children impacted by ICE raids

• Supporting Students SEL Needs

• Shifting Immigration FAQs

• How to Support Immigrant Students and Families

• What to do if ICE Visits Your School

• Immigration Support Links

• NAELPA Jan/25 Webinar: Protecting the Rights and Privacy of Multilingual Learners and their Families

• Dr. José Medina - Protecciones Para Estudiantes (video)

• From Dr. Cardona - DOE Directory of Resources

Additional Websites for Resources:

• National Immigration Law Center - Education For All Campaign

• We Have Rights Campaign

• www.justneighbors.org

• Legal Aid Rapid Response Toolkit

Authored by VATESOL Board

Each year, the VATESOL Conference features a dynamic keynote speaker who represents the conference theme and the mission of VATESOL. This year, we are so excited to welcome Dr. Ayanna Cooper to VATESOL! 

Ayanna Cooper, Ed.D., is an educator, bestselling author, and advocate whose advocacy centers around linguistically diverse student populations. She is a U.S. Department of State English Language Specialist alumna, having served on projects in Kuwait and Brazil. Ayanna engages in real-talk storytelling to support leadership development for multilingual students, provides technical assistance to state and local education agencies, and teaches part-time at Howard University. Ayanna is the author of several publications including And Justice for ELs: A Leader’s Guide to Creating and Sustaining Equitable Schools, Black Immigrants in the United States; Essays on the Politics of Race, Language and Voice (co-editor), and as the founding editor of Language Magazine’s Pass the Mic series.

Ayanna's keynote focuses on Civil Rights & the Survey: Making Meaning, Moving Mindsets.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education and the 50th anniversary of Lau v. Nichols. The population of multilingual students in U.S. schools has become more culturally and linguistically diverse. How have we (and the field) evolved as language educators? What does the future of multilingual education look like? Ayanna poses critical questions, centered around civil rights obligations, that can be used as an opportunity to self-assess and redress with the goal of improving outcomes for multilingual students.

We look forward to seeing all of you at the 2024 VATESOL conference and for Ayanna's keynote!

Authored by Max Nikoolkan, VATESOL Blog Editor

Delicious Eats Near the Richmond Marriott: A VATESOL Conference Lunch Guide

Attending the 2024 VATESOL Conference at the Richmond Marriott? You're in luck! Downtown Richmond boasts a vibrant culinary scene with numerous excellent restaurants within easy walking distance of the hotel. Here's a curated list of top-notch eateries to satisfy your taste buds during your lunch break.

1. Rappahannock Oyster Co. (0.2 miles) For seafood lovers, this is a must-visit spot. Known for their fresh oysters and sustainable seafood practices, Rappahannock offers a taste of the Chesapeake Bay. Try their famous crab cakes or enjoy a selection of raw oysters.

2. Secret Sandwich Society (0.3 miles) Craving a gourmet sandwich? This quirky spot offers creative combinations named after U.S. presidents. The "Jefferson" (roast beef, horseradish mayo, and crispy onions) is a local favorite.

3. Wong Gonzalez (0.3 miles) This unique fusion restaurant combines Asian and Mexican cuisines for an unforgettable dining experience. Don't miss their Korean BBQ tacos or Vietnamese-inspired banh mi sandwiches.

4. Pop's Market on Grace (0.4 miles) This charming market and cafe is ideal for a quick, casual lunch. Enjoy freshly made sandwiches, salads, and soups in a cozy atmosphere.
   

5. The Tobacco Company Restaurant (0.3 miles) Housed in a beautifully restored tobacco warehouse, this Richmond institution offers a taste of local history along with its delicious American cuisine. Their lunch menu features hearty salads, sandwiches, and entrees.

6. Lillie Pearl (0.2 miles) For a taste of elevated Southern cuisine, Lillie Pearl is a newcomer making waves in Richmond's food scene. Their lunch menu offers creative takes on classic dishes, like their famous shrimp and grits.

7. JewFro (0.4 miles) This innovative restaurant fuses Jewish and African cuisines for a truly unique dining experience. Try their matzo ball soup with Ethiopian spices or their brisket injera roll.

8. Mama J's Kitchen (0.5 miles) If you're willing to walk a bit further, Mama J's offers some of the best soul food in Richmond. Their fried chicken, catfish, and collard greens are legendary.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options:

• Ipanema Cafe (0.6 miles) - A beloved vegetarian and vegan restaurant with daily specials and a cozy atmosphere.

• NuVegan Cafe (0.4 miles) - Plant-based comfort food, including vegan "chicken" sandwiches and mac and cheese.

Quick Bites:

• Urban Farmhouse Market & Cafe (0.1 miles) - Perfect for grabbing a quick sandwich or salad.

• Chicken Fiesta (0.3 miles) - Fast, flavorful Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken.

Remember to check the operating hours of these restaurants, as some may have limited lunch hours. Most are within a 5-10 minute walk from the Richmond Marriott, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a delicious meal before returning to the conference.

Richmond's culinary scene reflects the city's rich history and diverse cultural influences. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, international cuisine, or farm-to-table fare, you'll find something to satisfy your cravings just steps away from the conference venue. Enjoy exploring the flavors of Richmond during your VATESOL conference lunch breaks!

Authored by Sara Geres, Adult Education SIG Leader

As the Program Director of a Community Based Literacy Organization (CBLO) in south west Virginia I regularly see adults that are approaching the eligibility to apply to become naturalized citizens of the United States. In addition to a lengthy application process individuals must participate and pass an exam. Adult CBLO’s across Virginia provide programs to prepare applicants to successfully pass this exam which tests the individual's civics knowledge and English language proficiency.

American History and Civics

Applicants are required to learn 100 American History and Civics questions. During the exam applicants will be asked a random series of 10 questions and required to correctly answer 6. Here is an example of questions, answers provided at the end of article:

1. Under our constitution, some powers belong to the federal government. What is one power of the federal government?
2. The Federalist Papers supported the passage of the Constitution, who was one of the writers?
3. What is one reason colonists came to America?

CBLO Citizenship Preparation classes teach learners the context behind these questions and provide opportunity to practice and drill USCIS expected answers.

Reading and Writing

To demonstrate sufficient English literacy skills applicants must pass the reading and writing portions of the exam. Applicants will be given a USCIS randomly selected sentence and asked to read out loud. The applicant will be given three opportunities to correctly read one sentence. For the writing section, applicants will be dictated a USCIS randomly selected sentence and asked to write on an electronic tablet. Again, the applicant will have three opportunities to correctly write one sentence.

Adults who participate in Citizenship Preparation classes are encouraged to co-enroll in appropriately leveled ESOL classes to ensure literacy levels are in accordance with USCIS expectations. Additionally, applicants should be exposed to and encouraged to practice the vocabulary that may be used.

Here are some example sentences:

●        People in the United States have the right to freedom of speech.

●        Delaware was one of the first states of the United States.

●        Lincoln was the President during the first world war.

Speaking and Listening

Finally, applicants are given an oral interview based on the questions from the application, N-400 Form. These questions include complex vocabulary with legal phrasing that can be difficult for a language learner to understand.

Here are some example questions from the N-400 form:

●        Have you ever manufactured, cultivated, produced, distributed, dispensed, sold or smuggled any controlled substances, illegal drugs, narcotics, or drug paraphernalia in violation or regulation of the U.S. state, the United States, or a foreign country.

●        Do you now have, or did you ever have, a hereditary title or an order of nobility in any foreign country

Citizenship Preparation classes break down complex legalese into manageable concepts to ensure applicants have a real and true understanding and are able to respond swiftly and appropriately.

Through this short article you can see that becoming a citizen can be a challenging process that requires that applicants study and prepare. Adult CBLO’s that provide Citizenship Preparation classes ensure that language learners have equity in becoming a citizen of the United States through the support of structured classes.

American History and Civics answers:

1 ●        To print money ●        To declare war ●        To create an army ●        To make treaties

2 ●        (James) Madison ●        (Alexander) Hamilton ●        (John) Jay ●        Publius

3 ●        Freedom ●        Political liberty ●        Religious freedom ●        Economic opportunity ●        Practice their religion ●        Escape persecution

USCIS provides citizenship resources for educational programs:

https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/resources-for-educational-programs/educational-products-for-educators-and-program-administrators

Authored by Max Nikoolkan, VATESOL Blog Editor

As educators, we are constantly seeking ways to enhance our teaching practices, connect with peers, and stay abreast of the latest trends in language education. The Virginia Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (VATESOL) conference provides a unique opportunity to achieve all these goals and more. Here’s why attending the 2024 VATESOL Conference is a must for every Virginia educator:

1. Professional Development and Growth

The VATESOL conference offers a rich array of workshops, sessions, and keynote speeches led by experts in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just starting your career, you’ll find sessions tailored to your needs. From innovative teaching strategies to best practices in assessment, the conference covers a wide range of topics that will empower you to become a better educator.

2. Networking and Collaboration

Connecting with fellow educators is invaluable. At VATESOL, you’ll have the chance to network with teachers from across the state. Share ideas, discuss challenges, and collaborate on projects. These interactions can lead to lasting professional relationships and open doors for future collaborations.

3. Exposure to Cutting-Edge Research

Stay informed about the latest research and trends in language education. Attend sessions that delve into evidence-based practices, explore emerging technologies, and discuss relevant pedagogical theories. By staying informed, you’ll be better equipped to meet the diverse needs of your students.

4. Inspiration and Renewed Enthusiasm

Conferences like VATESOL provide a burst of inspiration. Engage with passionate educators, hear success stories, and learn from others’ experiences. You’ll leave the conference with renewed enthusiasm for your work and fresh ideas to implement in your classroom.

5. Advocacy and Community Building

VATESOL advocates for English language learners and educators. By attending the conference, you contribute to a stronger community of professionals who champion the rights of language learners. Learn about policy changes, advocacy efforts, and ways to make a positive impact on language education in Virginia.

6. Access to Resources and Exhibitors

Explore the exhibit hall where publishers, educational technology companies, and other organizations showcase their products and services. Discover new textbooks, teaching materials, and digital tools that can enhance your teaching. Plus, take advantage of exclusive conference discounts.

The 2024 VATESOL Conference promises a wealth of opportunities for professional growth, networking, and inspiration. As a Virginia educator, attending this conference isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. Mark your calendar, register, and get ready to be part of a vibrant community dedicated to excellence in language education!

Remember to spread the word among your colleagues and encourage them to attend. Together, we can elevate language education in Virginia! 

Authored by April Salerno, Teacher Education SIG Leader

Ah the beautiful days of summer: sunshine, beach sand, and alarm clockless mornings. In a teaching field where it can seem there is never enough time, summer can sometimes feel like the answer to all our problems. But sometimes, it can also feel like the space where all larger to-do list items lurk (i.e., “I don’t need to worry about that right now; I’ll do it this summer.”). Here are some ideas to help you get some things done this summer without over-stressing your August:

• For larger projects, make a timeline with deadlines for smaller steps. The whole project might feel too overwhelming, so just take on a little piece at a time.
• Find a buddy. Divide up tasks, or set a meeting time to do the work side-by-side.
• If possible, consider organizing your classroom space a little at a time over the summer instead of waiting until right before the school year starts. An hour here and there in the building can go a long way.
• Think about materials and resources that you need and how community support or back-to-school sales can help you get them in more cost-effective ways.
• Attend community events near your school that are harder to make time for during the school year (e.g., students’ sports games or community cultural celebrations).
• Mix in some professional reading with pleasure reading. Maybe there’s a book on a topic that you’ve been wanting to learn about that’s not too dense but that still introduces you to the new topic.
• As you encounter new ideas, use a system to keep track of them (sticky notes, a notebook just for this purpose, a calendar reminder, or a note on your phone), so you actually implement them next school year.
• Make sure that no matter what work you tackle, you still get plenty of down time. You need time to recharge.