Culturally Responsive Teaching for ELLs

Abstract

This capstone project aims to support teachers, school faculty and staff, and administrative personnel who work with English Language Learners (ELLs) at Eastport-South Manor Central School District. ELL students are a population that is impacted by teacher preparation in culturally responsive teaching strategies and materials, or a lack of such, in many U.S. school districts, including the Eastport-South Manor Central School District. The lack of professional development and teacher training in TESOL instructional strategies, unawareness of how to build relationships between school faculty and ELL students, and lack of culturally responsive classroom settings can prevent ELL students' academic achievement and social development. Solutions include the successful preparation of teachers to provide a culturally responsive learning experience for ELL students to close the achievement gaps and thrive in their learning and language acquisition. Recommendations include maintaining a membership with the local Title III Consortium and monthly professional development days focused on culturally responsive teaching strategies and materials.