FOCUS is on the Essentials of Multilingual Learners support. Educators who are new to the world of English Language Development will benefit from reviewing the basics of identification, enrollment, and simple scaffolding strategies for English learners. Bring your lunch and connect with educators of English language learners. We will have a focus each meeting as well as time set aside to collaborate and talk with others who are doing what you do! We will meet at Park Central Office Building Room 235. Parking information will be emailed to you the day before the meeting.

This collaboration is for ELD directors and teacher leaders in the Southwest Region with 200 or more EL students in their districts. There will be one virtual meeting at the beginning of fall and spring semesters. The goal is to gather around issues of district-wide leadership, program development, and implementation of initiatives including professional development, teacher recruitment, administrative matters, etc. The topics will be up to you, and we will listen and learn from each other. We will meet via Zoom. The link will be sent to you the day before the meeting.

You are invited to join Rhonda Hittenberger Ortiz, your Southwest Missouri MELL Instructional Specialist, and other "New to ELD" educators for a time of connection and learning. These virtual meetings will provide resources to help you immediately in your work and a chance to network with others in your unique role.

Join educators of English language learners (ELLS) for a fun day of learning and collaboration. The conference will begin at 8am with coffee and tea. Then, the ELD team from Springfield Public Schools will lead us through the strategies in "The 7 Steps to a Language-Rich Classroom." After lunch provided onsite, Nixa's ELD team will describe their experience developing an ELD academy. Next, we will discuss tools and tips for using generative AI in language learning. Finally, the lead teachers from MSU's English Language Institute will share about Springfield's Welcome Family Program, which offers English classes for refugee parents. There will also be giveaways and time for talking and connecting with colleagues. A $45 registration fee will include LUNCH and a copy of the "7 Steps" book. Location: Darr Agricultural Center, 2401 S Kansas Expressway, Springfield, MO 65807

Liaisons who work with immigrant families in public school settings can learn from each other as they connect during these virtual meetings. We will discuss resources and ideas and help our colleagues problem-solve. Bring your questions and suggestions for this time together.

FOCUS on collaboration and co-teaching to provide multilingual learners with support in the classroom. Bring your lunch and connect with educators of English language learners. We will have a focus each meeting as well as time set aside to collaborate and talk with others who are doing what you do! We will meet in Park Central Office Building Room 235. Parking information will be emailed to you the day before.

FOCUS on building language and literacy for multilingual learners. Bring your lunch and connect with educators of English language learners. We will have a focus each meeting as well as time set aside to collaborate and talk with others who are doing what you do! The meeting will be held at Park Central Office Building in Room 235. Parking information will be emailed to you the day before the event.

FOCUS on ELs and Special Ed support. Bring your lunch and connect with educators of English language learners. We will have a focus each meeting as well as time set aside to collaborate and talk with others who are doing what you do! The location of this meeting will be emailed to participants the week before.

FOCUS on WIDA and ACCESS support. We will be joined by Cammy Goucher, Missouri ELD Director. Bring your lunch and connect with educators of English language learners. We will have a focus each meeting as well as time set aside to collaborate and talk with others who are doing what you do! Location of the meeting will be announced before the date.

FOCUS on welcoming and supporting refugees, SLIFE & newcomers. Bring your lunch and connect with educators of English language learners. We will have a focus each meeting as well as time set aside to collaborate and talk with others who are doing what you do! Location of the meeting will be announced before the date.

FOCUS on family engagement strategies for MLs and their families. Bring your lunch and connect with educators of English language learners. We will have a focus each meeting as well as time set aside to collaborate and talk with others who are doing what you do! Location of the meeting will be announced before the date.