Best Practices for Working with EL Students and Their Families

Do you feel challenged by what to do when an English Language Learner joins your classroom, and struggle with how to confidently communicate with families? Do you know what to ask, who to reach out to, and how to create EL accommodations in your classes?

This engaging presentation, from an EL teacher, will help K-12 educators build relationships and immediately communicate with English Learning students and families. Learn the 10 essential questions to ask when receiving an EL student and the solutions for how to plan for classroom and district-wide success!

You will leave this session with a comprehensive understanding of your EL student population, what it feels like to be in their shoes, how to collaborate with your EL teachers, ways to modify your instruction, confidence in how to effectively engage students and families, and a plan for your school for the new year!

In addition to attending the in person meeting, participants will have access to four online group coaching calls with Andrea Bitner for the 25-26 school year! Below you will find the details of the in-person workshop and the four online webinars.

In-person workshop:

Date: July 23, 2025

Time: 9:00 - 4:00 pm CT

Location: Casey Tibbs Rodeo Center

Address: 210 Verendrye Drive, Fort Pierre, SD 57532

Follow-up webinars:

The follow-up webinars will take place during the 25-26 school year. More information on dates and times coming soon.

If you have questions, contact Shari.Lord@state.sd.us