Since 2014, there have been 20 publications across five RELs related to English Learners (ELs), yet none focus on challenges unique to rural schools. Given the growing need in this area over the past two decades due to changing demographics in rural areas, particularly an increase in EL populations, this webinar will help to provide an important foundation for REL researchers to move forward with this work in their support of rural partners. During the webinar, Holly Hansen Thomas from Texas Woman's College and Maria Coady from the University of Florida presents current research on the challenges that rural schools face in meeting the needs of ELs, including teacher development and family engagement, and promising strategies identified in the research for rural schools to meet the needs of ELs.
Speakers Holly Hansen-Thomas Professor and Program Coordinator (Bilingual/ESL), Texas Woman's University Maria Coady Associate Professor (ESOL/Bilingual Education), University of Florida Douglas Gagnon Senior Researcher, REL Central Douglas Van Dine Researcher, REL Central
