The English Learner Authorization (ELA) is a specialized certification that allows educators to teach English language learners (ELLs) in California. It is a requirement for teachers who wish to teach ELLs in kindergarten through grade twelve in California public schools. This certification is regulated by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) and is aimed at ensuring that teachers are properly trained to work with ELLs and provide them with the support they need to succeed in school.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the ELA, what it entails, and why it matters.
Understanding the ELA
The ELA is a specialized certification that is issued by the CTC to educators who have completed specific coursework and training in working with ELLs. This certification is required for teachers who wish to work with ELLs in California public schools, including charter schools, and it is only valid in California.
The coursework required for the ELA covers a range of topics related to working with ELLs, including language acquisition, cultural awareness, and instructional strategies for ELLs. It also includes fieldwork in a classroom setting, where candidates can apply what they have learned in a real-world environment.
To be eligible for the ELA, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid California teaching credential or have completed a teacher preparation program.
- Complete the required coursework in ELL instruction, which includes a minimum of 12 semester units or 18 quarter units.
- Complete a supervised field experience in teaching ELLs.
Once these requirements have been met, candidates can apply for the ELA through the CTC. The certification is valid for five years, after which it must be renewed by completing additional coursework and professional development.
Why the ELA Matters
The ELA is an important certification for educators who work with ELLs in California public schools. Here are some reasons why:
- It Ensures That Teachers Are Prepared to Work with ELLs
ELLs have unique needs when it comes to language development and academic success. Teachers who work with ELLs must be prepared to address these needs and provide appropriate support. The ELA ensures that teachers have the knowledge and skills they need to work effectively with ELLs.
- It Helps Improve Outcomes for ELLs
Research has shown that ELLs who receive appropriate support and instruction are more likely to succeed academically. The ELA helps ensure that teachers are providing high-quality instruction that meets the needs of ELLs, which can lead to improved outcomes for these students.
- It Promotes Equity and Access
The ELA helps ensure that all ELLs in California have access to high-quality instruction and support, regardless of where they live or attend school. By requiring all teachers who work with ELLs to have the ELA, the state is promoting equity and access for these students.
- It Supports Compliance with Federal and State Laws
Under federal law, states are required to ensure that ELLs have access to appropriate instruction and support. California law requires that teachers who work with ELLs have the ELA. By complying with these laws, the state is ensuring that ELLs receive the support and instruction they need to succeed academically.
- It Helps Address the Growing Need for Teachers Who Can Work with ELLs
The number of ELLs in California is growing rapidly, and there is a growing need for teachers who can work effectively with these students. The ELA helps ensure that there are enough qualified teachers to meet this need.
How to Obtain English Learner Authorization in California?
Obtaining the English Learner Authorization (ELA) in California involves completing specific coursework and training in working with English language learners (ELLs) and meeting certain eligibility requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to obtain the ELA:
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before pursuing the ELA, it’s important to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. To be eligible for the ELA, you must:
Hold a valid California teaching credential or have completed a teacher preparation program.
Complete the required coursework in ELL instruction, which includes a minimum of 12 semester units or 18 quarter units.
Complete a supervised field experience in teaching ELLs.
If you meet these requirements, you can move on to the next step.
Step 2: Complete the Required Coursework
To obtain the ELA, you must complete the required coursework in ELL instruction. This includes a minimum of 12-semester units or 18 quarter units of coursework that covers topics related to working with ELLs, such as language acquisition, cultural awareness, and instructional strategies for ELLs. The coursework must be completed at a regionally accredited college or university and must be at the graduate level.
Some examples of coursework that may be required include:
Linguistics for Teachers
Methods for Teaching English Learners
Assessment and Instruction for English Learners
Foundations of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism
Language and Culture in Education
You can find a list of approved programs and courses on the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) website.
Step 3: Complete a Supervised Field Experience
In addition to completing the required coursework, you must also complete a supervised field experience in teaching ELLs. This experience must be completed at a regionally accredited college or university and must be at the graduate level.
The field experience should provide you with the opportunity to apply what you have learned in the coursework in a real-world setting. You will work under the supervision of a qualified mentor teacher who has experience working with ELLs.
Step 4: Apply for the ELA
Once you have completed the required coursework and field experience, you can apply for the ELA through the CTC. You will need to submit an application and provide documentation of your eligibility and completion of the requirements.
The application fee is $100, and the certification is valid for five years. You will need to renew your certification every five years by completing additional coursework and professional development.
Step 5: Maintain Your ELA
To maintain your ELA, you must complete additional coursework and professional development every five years. The CTC requires that you complete a minimum of 45 hours of professional development in ELL instruction and complete at least one three-semester-unit or four-quarter-unit course in ELL instruction.
You can find a list of approved professional development opportunities on the CTC website.
Conclusion
Obtaining the English Learner Authorization in California requires completing specific coursework and training in working with ELLs and meeting certain eligibility requirements. By following these steps, you can obtain the ELA and become qualified to work with ELLs in California public schools.
