Implementing the Common Core State Standards for English Learners: The Changing Role of the ESL Teacher
This report summarizes the key topics that emerged from a special 2013 TESOL International Association meeting that discussed how the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) will change the roles of those who teach English as a second language (ESL). Thirty ESL teachers and administrators, education experts, researchers, and thought leaders were brought together to give ESL teachers a venue to speak about the CCSS. This paper provides background on the role of the ESL teacher in the CCSS and then shares findings from the meeting.
This summary of the special 2013 TESOL meeting provides important insights into the changing role of ESL teachers in the context of CCSS implementation. For instance, it recommends that ESL teachers have increased instructional, leadership, and advocacy roles for ELs and for the field. It also promotes the idea of ESL teachers taking a more central role in framing academic language instruction in the content areas.