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On the show
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Recent guests
Recent episodes
Centering indigenous voices in education with Georgina Owen
Nov 6, 2025
27m 47s
Sustaining EL success through teacher leaders with Dr. Michelle Benegas
Oct 21, 2025
32m 39s
Effective coaching for teachers of English learners with Paula Polk
Oct 7, 2025
28m 41s
Student agency through academic languaging with Dr. Margo Gottlieb and Dr. Gisela Ernst-Slavit
Sep 23, 2025
31m 09s
Organizing a summer newcomer program with Sarah Whitfield
Sep 9, 2025
34m 13s
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| Date | Episode | Topics | Guests | Brands | Places | Keywords | Sponsor | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11/6/25 | ![]() Centering indigenous voices in education with Georgina Owen✨ | Indigenous educationculturally grounded curriculum+4 | Georgina Owen | Colorado Department of EducationHistory Colorado+1 | — | Indigenous voiceseducation+6 | — | 27m 47s | |
| 10/21/25 | ![]() Sustaining EL success through teacher leaders with Dr. Michelle Benegas✨ | English learnersteacher leadership+3 | Dr. Michelle Benegas | TESOL International AssociationHamline University+1 | — | EL successteacher leaders+3 | — | 32m 39s | |
| 10/7/25 | ![]() Effective coaching for teachers of English learners with Paula Polk✨ | coaching for teacherssupporting multilingual learners+3 | Paula Polk | Ellevation EducationEnhancing Instruction for Multilingual Learners: Coaching Practices to Empower Students | — | teacher coachingmultilingual education+3 | — | 28m 41s | |
| 9/23/25 | ![]() Student agency through academic languaging with Dr. Margo Gottlieb and Dr. Gisela Ernst-Slavit✨ | student agencyacademic languaging+4 | Dr. Margo GottliebDr. Gisela Ernst-Slavit | Ellevation EducationAcademic Languaging | — | academic languagestudent-driven process+3 | — | 31m 09s | |
| 9/9/25 | ![]() Organizing a summer newcomer program with Sarah Whitfield✨ | summer newcomer programfamily collaboration+3 | Sarah Whitfield | Ellevation Education | — | newcomer academyfamily engagement+5 | — | 34m 13s | |
| 8/26/25 | ![]() Creating authentic learning experiences for ELs with Dr. Carol Salva✨ | authentic learning experiencessupporting English learners+4 | Dr. Carol Salva | Ellevation EducationBoosting Achievement+3 | — | English learnersmultilingual education+5 | — | 35m 38s | |
| 6/3/25 | ![]() Igniting real change for English learners with Carly Spina✨ | English learnerseducation advocacy+4 | Carly Spina | Illinois Resource CenterMoving Beyond for Multilingual Learners+1 | Chicago | English learnerseducation+4 | — | 40m 01s | |
| 5/20/25 | ![]() Celebrating the teaching profession with Alaina Peterson, Sarah Nandi, and Thomas Hekma✨ | teaching professioneducators support+4 | Sarah NandiAlaina Peterson+1 | Ellevation | — | teachingeducation+5 | — | 22m 10s | |
| 5/6/25 | ![]() Colorado's investment in bilingualism with Alice Collins and Dr. Ester de Jong✨ | bilingual educationmultilingual learners+3 | Alice CollinsDr. Esther De Jong | Colorado Department of EducationUniversity of Colorado Denver | Colorado | bilingualismmultilingual education+3 | — | 50m 06s | |
| 4/22/25 | ![]() Connecting with students from hard places with Elise White Diaz✨ | trauma-informed educationmultilingual learners+4 | Elise White Diaz | Ellevation Education | — | traumaeducation+6 | — | 54m 40s | |
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| 4/1/25 | ![]() Content instruction that welcomes multilingual learners with Valentina Gonzalez | Valentina Gonzalez, a passionate advocate for multilingual learners, joins Highest Aspirations to discuss her collaborative work on Welcome to Teaching Multilingual Learners and her solo project, Equitable Instruction for English Learners in the Content Area. With a focus on bridging content and language instruction, Valentina shares her experience working alongside renowned educators Drs. Fisher and Frey, highlighting the transformative power of co-authorship and her unique visual approach. This episode dives into the practical strategies and the foundational "why" behind her books, offering educators the tools to create more inclusive and equitable classrooms.Valentina explores key principles in her work, emphasizing culturally inclusive pedagogy, oracy development, and essential skills instruction. She underscores the importance of understanding and valuing the diverse backgrounds of students, going beyond surface-level vocabulary to address the deeper linguistic needs of multilingual learners. Through her insights, listeners discover how to foster collaborative learning environments and implement strategies that support both language acquisition and meaningful content engagement. This episode is an invaluable resource for educators seeking to transform their practices and create a welcoming classroom for all students.Key questions we address:How can educators apply the "Golden Circle" theory to design instruction that aligns with their core values and meaningfully supports multilingual learners?What are some practical strategies that content area teachers can use to create inclusive learning environments that address the linguistic and cultural needs of multilingual learners?In what ways can collaborative learning and book studies, such as co-authoring and book clubs, enhance professional development and improve teaching practices for educators working with multilingual learners?For additional episode and community resources:Download the transcript here.Valentina’s book with Douglas Fisher and Nancy Frey Welcome to Teaching Multilingual Learners!Valentina’s second book mentioned Equitable Instruction for English Learners in the Content AreasSimon Sinek’s book Start with WhySimon Sinek’s TEDTalkFor additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog Valentina Gonzalez is known for her passionate advocacy and dedication to multilingual learners. As a sought-after speaker and keynote presenter, she travels nationwide to inspire educators with the message that bilingualism is a gift. Valentina has remained steadfast in her commitment to promoting literacy, celebrating cultural diversity, and nurturing language development. Her mission to ensure high-quality education for multilingual learners is deeply personal, fueled by her own experiences as an immigrant and English learner. | — | ||||||
| 3/18/25 | ![]() How admins can create a culture of collaborative assessment with Dr. Andrea Honigsfeld and Dr. Margo Gottlieb | Drs. Margo Gottlieb and Andrea Honigsfeld, authors of Collaborative Assessment for Multilingual Learners and Teachers, join Highest Aspirations to discuss how administrators can support educators in transforming assessment practices. Moving beyond traditional methods, they emphasize the role of school leaders in fostering a collaborative approach that centers multilingual learners and empowers teachers.This episode explores the essential role of administrators in the five phases of collaborative assessment and how they integrate into the instructional cycle. Drs. Gottlieb and Honigsfeld discuss strategies for creating a culture of shared assessment, supporting teacher collaboration, and ensuring multilingual learners' voices are honored throughout the process. Learn how school leaders can make assessment a meaningful and equitable part of the learning journey.Key questions we address:How can administrators support teachers in implementing collaborative assessment?What structures and supports help create a culture of shared assessment in schools?How do we collaboratively examine student learning within instructional and assessment cycles across grade levels and content areas?For additional episode and community resources:Download the transcript here.Dr. Andrea Honigsfeld and Dr. Margo Gottlieb book discussed: Collaborative Assessment for Multilingual Learners and Teachers: Pathways to PartnershipsCompanion site for book to access the resources included with your purchase.University of Chicago researchers, Bryk and Schneider’s Trust in Schools: A Core Resource for ImprovementSteve Barkley Ponders Out Loud PodcastFor additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog Andrea Honigsfeld, EdD, is a professor at Molloy College, teaching graduate courses on cultural and linguistic diversity and TESOL methodology. Previously, she taught ESL/EFL in Hungary and New York City. She researches individualized instruction and has published extensively on multilingual learners and collaborative practices. A Fulbright Scholar, she has presented internationally and provides professional learning on content and language integration and collaborative practices. She has coauthored over 60 articles and chapters and over 30 books, including 11 national bestsellers.Dr. Margo Gottlieb, WIDA co-founder and lead developer, has a distinguished career as a language teacher, coordinator, facilitator, and consultant. A Fulbright Senior Scholar and TESOL 50@50 honoree, she has presented internationally and authored over 100 publications, including "Assessing Multilingual Learners: Bridges to Empowerment" (3rd ed., 2024), "Classroom Assessment in Multiple Languages" (2021/2022), and "Collaborative Assessment for Multilingual Learners and Teachers" (with Andrea Honigsfeld). | — | ||||||
| 3/4/25 | ![]() S14/E4: Collaborative assessment for multilingual learners and teachers with Dr. Andrea Honigsfeld and Dr. Margo Gottlieb | Drs. Margo Gottlieb and Andrea Honigsfeld, authors of "Collaborative Assessment for Multilingual Learners and Teachers," join Highest Aspirations to discuss transforming assessment practices. Moving beyond traditional methods, they advocate for a collaborative approach that centers multilingual learners and empowers educators.This episode explores the five phases of collaborative assessment and how they integrate into the instruction cycle. Drs. Gottlieb and Honigsfeld delve into student-led conferences, practical strategies for co-reflection, and building trust within collaborative teams. Learn how to make assessment an integral part of the learning journey, fostering student ownership and honoring the voices of multilingual learners.Key questions we address:What is collaborative assessment and how does it differ from traditional assessment practices?How do we collaboratively examine student learning within instructional and assessment cycles across grade levels and content areas?What are some specific strategies and tools that teachers can use to implement collaborative assessment and engage multilingual learners in the process?For additional episode and community resources:Download the transcript here.Dr. Andrea Honigsfeld and Dr. Margo Gottlieb book discussed: Collaborative Assessment for Multilingual Learners and Teachers: Pathways to PartnershipsCompanion site for book to access the resources included with your purchase.Language Magazine article mentioned: Collaborative Planning: Never Having to Go It AloneBrené Brown TED Talk: The power of vulnerabilityChimamanda Ngozi Adichie TED Talk: The danger of a single storyFor additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog Andrea Honigsfeld, EdD, is a professor at Molloy College, teaching graduate courses on cultural and linguistic diversity and TESOL methodology. Previously, she taught ESL/EFL in Hungary and New York City. She researches individualized instruction and has published extensively on multilingual learners and collaborative practices. A Fulbright Scholar, she has presented internationally and provides professional learning on content and language integration and collaborative practices. She has coauthored over 60 articles and chapters and over 30 books, including 11 national bestsellers.Dr. Margo Gottlieb, WIDA co-founder and lead developer, has a distinguished career as a language teacher, coordinator, facilitator, and consultant. A Fulbright Senior Scholar and TESOL 50@50 honoree, she has presented internationally and authored over 100 publications, including "Assessing Multilingual Learners: Bridges to Empowerment" (3rd ed., 2024), "Classroom Assessment in Multiple Languages" (2021/2022), and "Collaborative Assessment for Multilingual Learners and Teachers" (with Andrea Honigsfeld). | — | ||||||
| 2/4/25 | ![]() S14/E3 Encore Episode: Collaborative support for English Learners with disabilities with Dr. Sara Kangas | An encore episode from season 9 of Highest Aspirations, where we discuss how schools are accommodating English learners with disabilities and the impacts that EL and disability status have on reclassification or exiting with Dr. Sara Kangas. Key questions we address: What impacts have we seen on recent policy changes to reclassification or exiting of ELs with disabilities? How can schools prioritize collaboration and improve their current processes for determining reclassification for SPED ELs? What strategies can we use to ensure that these students are integrated into general education classrooms without compromising on learning in a supportive, language rich environment? For additional episode and community resources: Dual Language Development and Disorders book recommended by Dr. Kangas National Center for Systemic Improvement - Thought Leader Series Visit Dr. Sara Kangas’ website to learn more about her work For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog Dr. Sara Kangas is an associate professor in the College of Education at Lehigh University. She is an applied linguist whose research focuses on the school-age population of multilingual learners (MLs) with disabilities. Using ethnography and interpretive policy analysis, Dr. Kangas investigates opportunity to learn for MLs with disabilities, with particular attention to the ways in which education policies, school structures, and ideologies affect their everyday learning experiences. Dr. Kangas has published in top-tier journals such as the American Educational Research Journal, Teaching and Teacher Education, and TESOL Quarterly, among others. Her scholarship has received the James E. Alatis Prize (2018), TESOL Award for Distinguished Research (2015), and the Wilga Rivers Memorial Graduate Student Award (2015). Dr. Kangas earned her Ph.D. in Education with a concentration in applied linguistics at Temple University. | — | ||||||
| 1/21/25 | ![]() S14/E2: Leading for bilingual student success in Eagle Pass with Jaime Gonzalez | Jaime Gonzalez, Bilingual Director at Eagle Pass ISD, joins Highest Aspirations to share how his district fosters success for emergent bilingual students and educators. Located on the Texas-Mexico border, Eagle Pass ISD leverages its unique bicultural and bilingual community to empower students and teachers alike. Jaime discusses grassroots initiatives like the district's bilingual certification academy, leadership development programs, and empathy-driven training strategies that help educators connect with and support their students. In this episode, Jaime explores the importance of breaking down language barriers, building strong community ties, and focusing on progress over perfection. Through practical strategies and powerful insights, this conversation highlights how collaboration and connection can transform outcomes for multilingual learners and their educators. Key questions we address: What steps can school districts take to build a strong bilingual teacher pipeline and support staff in meeting state requirements to teach multilingual learners? What role does community and cultural connection play in fostering academic and personal growth for bilingual learners? How can empathy and relationship-building enhance professional development and leadership in education? For additional episode and community resources: Download the transcript here. Visit Eagle Pass ISD’s website. Check out If You Don't Feed the Teachers They Eat the Students!: Guide to Success for Administrators and Teachers mentioned in the podcast. For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog. To expand your connection within the Ellevation community by join our Ellevation Educator Facebook Group. Jaime Gonzalez, a native of Zaragoza, Coahuila, Mexico, moved to Eagle Pass in ninth grade and graduated from Eagle Pass High School. With a degree in Applied Mathematics, Jaime has dedicated 16 years to education with Eagle Pass ISD. He began his career as a high school math teacher, teaching Geometry across ESL, Pre-AP, and regular sections for seven years. Jaime then transitioned into leadership, serving as an Elementary Instructional Officer, High School Dean of Instruction, and currently as Bilingual Director—a role he has held for six years. In his position, Jaime is committed to transforming language barriers into opportunities, empowering students with the tools and support they need to thrive. His work reflects his passion for fostering understanding and building pathways for success within his community. | — | ||||||
| 1/7/25 | ![]() S14/E1: Understanding English learner needs through the Critical Data Process with Steve Gill | English learners with special needs often face significant barriers to accessing appropriate support in schools, and accurate identification is critical to their success. Steve Gill, a seasoned educator, school psychologist, and consultant with over 15 years of experience, joins Highest Aspirations to discuss the Critical Data Process—a framework designed to guide teams in evaluating and supporting dually identified students. Drawing from his extensive work with thousands of educators and school districts across the U.S., Gill shares his journey from recognizing the gaps in his own training to developing a system that prioritizes context, collaboration, and equity. In this episode, Steve Gill delves into the complexities of identifying special education needs among English learners and the importance of viewing students through an asset-based lens. He highlights the value of building diverse evaluation teams, leveraging localized data, and fostering high expectations for all students. Whether you're an educator, school psychologist, or administrator, this conversation offers practical strategies for refining assessment practices, addressing systemic challenges, and ensuring that every student receives the support they need to thrive. Key questions we address: How can educators effectively use the Critical Data Process to differentiate between language acquisition challenges and potential disabilities in English learners? What role do expectations, context, and collaboration play in creating equitable evaluations and interventions for dually identified students? How can schools and districts adapt their systems to better support language learners and ensure accurate identification of their needs? For additional episode and community resources: Download the transcript here. Visit Steve Gill’s website. Steve Gill’s book on language acquisition. Steve Gill’s book Let’s Talk. For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog. To expand your connection within the Ellevation community by join our Ellevation Educator Facebook Group. Steve Gill is an experienced educator, school psychologist, and consultant who has dedicated his career to improving outcomes for English learners and students with special needs. With over 15 years of consulting experience, Steve has trained more than 23,000 educators across the U.S. and worked with professionals in 14 countries. His extensive career includes roles in gifted education, counseling, coaching, and developing innovative frameworks like the Critical Data Process—a tool designed to guide equitable evaluations for dually identified students. Steve is also a prolific author, having co-authored 10 books, which reflect his passion for education, creativity, and practical solutions. Through his work, Steve continues to empower educators with strategies that foster equity, leverage data, and focus on the strengths of every student. | — | ||||||
| 12/19/24 | ![]() S13/E10: Building Bridges for Newcomer Families with Amy King and Yvonne Williams | Newcomer students bring diverse strengths and experiences to their schools but often face unique challenges in adjusting to a new country, culture, and educational system. Amy King and Yvonne Williams from WCEPS join Highest Aspirations to discuss how clear communication, culturally responsive practices, and meaningful family engagement can help schools support newcomer families effectively. In this episode, King and Williams share actionable strategies for building partnerships with families, fostering inclusive environments, and addressing the diverse needs of students and families. From leveraging families’ strengths to shifting deficit-based perspectives, this conversation offers valuable insights for educators committed to creating spaces where all students can succeed. Key questions we address: What strategies can schools implement to foster culturally responsive communication and actively engage families as partners in education? How can educators address the unique needs of newcomer families while leveraging their strengths to create inclusive school environments? What steps can schools take to ensure clear communication channels that respect and reflect families’ diverse cultural backgrounds? For additional episode and community resources: Download the transcript here Watch the recording of Amy and Yvonne’s IMPACT session Engage with the Building Bridges padlet Learn more about WCEPS work on their website Stay updated on upcoming Tips and Dips webinars For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog To expand your connection within the Ellevation community by joining our Ellevation Educator Facebook Group Yvonne Williams is the Director of Multilingual Learner Educator Engagement at WCEPS, where she works closely with Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to support educators in meeting their goals. As an immigrant from Chihuahua, Mexico, and a former English language learner, Yvonne brings a deeply personal perspective to her work. Her 25+ years of experience in education, including her time as a WIDA Professional Learning Specialist, have shaped her dedication to helping diverse language learners succeed. Amy King has more than 20 years of experience in the field of English language teaching both in the US and overseas. She served as a Senior Professional Learning Specialist at WIDA, taught ESL in K–12 public schools, private language schools, and adult education programs. Internationally, she has taught in both Slovakia and South Korea. | — | ||||||
| 12/11/24 | ![]() S13/E9: Supporting newcomer students through acculturation with Dr. Marie Heath | Newcomer students face unique challenges as they adjust to life in a new country, culture, and educational system. Dr. Marie Heath, an international educational consultant with over 30 years of experience, joins Highest Aspirations to share her expertise on acculturation and bicultural identity. Drawing from her own experience as the child of an immigrant and her doctoral research at Texas A&M Commerce, Dr. Heath discusses strategies for helping newcomer students build their bicultural identities while navigating the complexities of their new environment. In this episode, Dr. Heath explores the importance of creating a welcoming space, building connections between schools and families, and equipping students with the tools they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. From developing systematic approaches to supporting newcomers to celebrating their strengths and unique contributions, this conversation provides actionable insights for educators dedicated to fostering inclusive classrooms. Key questions we address: How can educators help newcomer students build bicultural identities while easing their transition into a new school environment? What strategies can schools use to engage newcomer families and create stronger school-community connections? Why is it critical to address students’ emotional and cultural needs alongside academic goals, and how can teachers achieve this balance? For additional episode and community resources: Download the transcript here. Learn more about the Multilingual Acculturation Studies for Newcomers course Access Multilingual Acculturation Studies Resources For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog To expand your connection within the Ellevation community by join our Ellevation Educator Facebook Group. Dr. Marie Heath is an international educational consultant with over 30 years of experience in education. She earned her doctorate from Texas A&M Commerce, focusing on acculturation for immigrant adolescents and successful bicultural and bilingual integration. Growing up as the child of an immigrant, Dr. Heath understands the complexities of navigating multiple cultural worlds and has dedicated her career to what she calls “the beautiful art of grafting multicultural identities.” Today, Dr. Heath works to help newcomer students and their families adjust to new cultural, linguistic, and academic environments, offering practical tools for fostering resilience and celebrating diversity. | — | ||||||
| 11/19/24 | ![]() S13/E8: Personalizing professional learning with Rocío Figueroa | In this episode of Highest Aspirations, Sandra sits down with Rocío Figueroa, Senior Instructional Content Manager at Ellevation, to explore how personalized professional development can transform teaching and learning for English learners. Drawing from her diverse experiences as a teacher, instructional coach, administrator, and consultant, Rocío shares practical strategies for tailoring professional learning to meet the unique needs of educators across content areas and grade levels. They discuss the power of data-driven approaches to PD, the value of leveraging internal expertise within schools, and the importance of building collaborative teacher communities. As a speaker at Ellevation’s upcoming IMPACT Conference, Rocío offers a preview of her session, which focuses on creating actionable and meaningful learning opportunities that empower educators to better support their multilingual students. Resister for IMPACT Conference 2024 For additional episode and community resources: Download the transcript here. For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog To expand your connection within the Ellevation community by join our Ellevation Educator Facebook Group. | — | ||||||
| 11/12/24 | ![]() S13/E7: Reflecting on the journey of IMPACT with Ben McNelly and Steve Sofronas | The IMPACT Conference was born out of a desire to bring educators together during a time of unprecedented isolation and challenge. In this episode of Highest Aspirations, Ben McNelly and Steve Sofronas join us to reflect on the journey of the conference—from its inception during the height of the pandemic to its evolution into a dynamic virtual event that continues to serve educators nationwide. They share insights into how the conference has grown to support English learners, the importance of fostering community among educators, and the ongoing commitment to making professional development accessible for all. As we look ahead to this year’s conference, Ben and Steve discuss how the theme of “Paving the way: Strengthening spaces where EL students can thrive” aligns with Ellevation’s mission to create spaces where multilingual students can succeed. Resister for IMPACT Conference 2024 For additional episode and community resources: Download the transcript here. For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog To expand your connection within the Ellevation community by join our Ellevation Educator Facebook Group. | — | ||||||
| 10/29/24 | ![]() S13/E6: Understanding the Critical Data Process to support dually identified ELs with Cheyen Herseth | Welcome to Highest Aspirations, a podcast dedicated to empowering educators with insights and strategies to support multilingual learners in reaching their fullest potential. In this episode, we’re joined by Cheyen Herseth, an Elementary Multilingual Learning TOSA in Washington State and a WIDA Fellow, who has been instrumental in her district’s transition to the WIDA Framework. Cheyen discusses her experiences leading this shift and how the WIDA Framework and Critical Data Process have reshaped her approach to supporting dually identified multilingual learners. She shares her perspective on navigating the complexities of implementing new frameworks while ensuring that students' diverse backgrounds and needs are honored. Through her expertise, Cheyen provides valuable guidance on creating structured yet adaptable systems for multilingual learners, advocating for holistic assessment practices, and fostering collaborative networks that support students, families, and educators alike. For additional episode and community resources: Download the transcript here. To learn more about the author of the Critical Data Process at SteveGillell.com. For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog. To expand your connection within the Ellevation community by join our Ellevation Educator Facebook Group. | — | ||||||
| 10/15/24 | ![]() S13 E5: Honoring heritage in the workplace with Yolanda Rios and Roxanne Rodriguez | Welcome to Highest Aspirations, an education podcast focused on providing educators with inspiration and strategies to help multilingual learners achieve their highest aspirations. In this episode, we are joined by Yolanda Rios and Roxanne Rodriguez, leaders at Ellevation Education and co-leads of the SOMOS Employee Resource Group. Yolanda and Roxanne share how their Latinx heritage has shaped their leadership styles and how they’ve used their cultural roots to foster a strong sense of community at Ellevation. We explore the importance of employee resource groups in creating spaces of belonging and how family values can influence leadership in the workplace. Through their experiences, Yolanda and Roxanne offer valuable insights on embracing cultural identity at work, building inclusive teams, and paving the way for future leaders by honoring their heritage. Click here to download the full episode transcript. To find more podcast episodes and show notes/key takeaways, visit our podcast resource page. For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog. To expand your connection within the Ellevation community by join our Ellevation Educator Facebook Group. | — | ||||||
| 10/1/24 | ![]() S13/E4: Embracing the power of Latino leadership with Dr. Juana Bordas | Welcome to Highest Aspirations, an education podcast focused on providing educators with inspiration and strategies to help multilingual learners achieve their highest aspirations. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Juana Bordas, author of The Power of Latino Leadership – Ahora! and Salsa, Soul, and Spirit: Leadership for a Multicultural Age. Dr. Bordas discusses the vital role family and cultural connections play in shaping leadership within the Latino community. We explore how preserving cultural identity can empower the next generation of leaders, and Dr. Bordas shares key insights on cultural pride, education, and intergenerational leadership. As a pioneer in leadership development and a lifelong advocate for advancing the Latino community, Dr. Bordas offers inspiration and actionable strategies for building future leaders who are deeply connected to their heritage. Click here to download the full episode transcript. To find more podcast episodes and show notes/key takeaways, visit our podcast resource page. For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog. To expand your connection within the Ellevation community by join our Ellevation Educator Facebook Group. To learn more about Dr. Juana Bordas’ work click here. | — | ||||||
| 9/17/24 | ![]() S13/E3: Building relationships to empower youth with Ernesto Mejia | Welcome to Highest Aspirations, an education podcast focused on providing educators with inspiration and strategies to help multilingual learners achieve their highest aspirations. We have a very special guest with us today, the co-founder of CoolSpeak, Ernesto Mejia. Mejia is the proud son of Mexican immigrants, and a true example of the American dream. Diagnosed with the rare disease of Guillain-Barré (ghee-yan bar-ray) Syndrome at the age of 16 that left him temporarily paralyzed, he was not supposed to be a successful student, much less a College Dean of Students. But through his hardships, Mejia learned to never give up on life. He now speaks to students, parents and teachers about overcoming obstacles and never giving up on the American dream of education. In this episode, we cover the meaning and importance of youth empowerment, the work of his company CoolSpeak, and how we can align programs and speakers we bring into a district with the needs of the audience and goals of the school. Click here to download the full episode transcript . To find more podcast episodes and show notes/key takeaways, visit our podcast resource page. For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog. To expand your connection within the Ellevation community by join our Ellevation Educator Facebook Group. To learn more about Mejia’s work with CoolSpeak click here. | — | ||||||
| 9/3/24 | ![]() S13/E2: Engaging families in early education with Dr. Rebecca Palacios | Welcome to Highest Aspirations, an education podcast focused on providing educators with inspiration and strategies to help multilingual learners achieve their highest aspirations. We have a very special guest with us today, Dr. Rebecca Palacios. This episode is dedicated to all of our educators who are in back-to-school mode and I could think of no one better to get us talking about parent engagement and early childhood education than Dr. Rebecca Palacios. Dr. Palacios is a National Board Certified Teacher, and leading expert in early childhood education. With over five decades of experience, she is a pioneer in the field of dual language learning and specializes in curriculum planning and instructional design. In addition to being a founding director of The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards and formerly serving as its vice-chairperson, she is also a co-founder of the Texas National Board Coalition for Teaching and serves as its Treasurer. And she also serves as a Curriculum Board Member for Age of Learning, the leading education technology company that created ABCmouse.com Early Learning Academy. For full episode resources and links, find the episode recap post on our podcast page. To download the full episode transcript click here To find more podcast episodes and show notes/key takeaways, visit our podcast resource page. For additional free resources geared toward supporting English learners, visit our blog. To expand your connection within the Ellevation community by join our Ellevation Educator Facebook Group. | — | ||||||
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