Henderson State to host ESOL Institute for Arkansas teachers

Henderson State University will host an ESOL Institute this summer providing Arkansas Educators an opportunity to earn 12 graduate credits and apply for an ESL Endorsement.

ESOL represents English Speakers of Other Languages.

Participants will receive a scholarship to cover the cost of tuition and fees, and one administration of the ESOL Praxis.

Online registration and additional information is available at hsu.edu/esol. There is a $25 application fee, which is waived for Henderson State alumni. Teachers are encouraged to apply by April 15 for priority registration.

“The ESOL Institute is a tradition in Southwest Arkansas in which Henderson State University partners with Dawson Educational Cooperative to provide a six-day intensive learning opportunity,” said Dr. Holly Cothren, associate professor and director of the ESOL Institute at Henderson.

“The training received in the ESOL Institute makes all teachers better at their craft,” Cothren said. “The important role of the teacher in creating safe, meaningful, and accessible learning environments for all students is emphasized throughout the program. Many teachers gain a great sense of empathy for students who are not proficient in English.

The institute will be held July 16-21 at the Dawson Cooperative in downtown Arkadelphia. The summer sessions are in person, with four virtual follow-up sessions on Sept. 13, Nov. 1, Feb. 7, and April 4.

The ESOL Endorsement allows licensed educators to teach in positions requiring ESOL credentials and ensures teachers holding such an endorsement have the training required to effectively provide language assistance services in a variety of classrooms.

Applicants must be working with, or have access to, English Learners in the classroom on a consistent basis to complete assignments.