Saturday Workshop 8
On May 4, 2024, George Mason University’s Johnson Center buzzed with excitement as the ACE-STEM program hosted its eighth in-person workshop from 10 am to 1 pm. This event marked a significant milestone for Cohort 1 teachers who have spent the past two years deeply engaged in enhancing their pedagogical frameworks and instructional strategies to better serve PK-12 multilingual learners. The workshop began with heartwarming addresses from the ACE-STEM leadership team, including Dr. Sujin Kim, Dr. Joan Kang Shin, and Dr. Ellen Rodgers, alongside the PWCS leadership, Dr. Lynmara Colón. Their speeches not only underscored the appreciation for the dedication and hard work of Cohort 1 teachers but also celebrated the commencement of the journey for the incoming Cohort 2 educators.
Following the opening remarks, the event moved into the capstone presentation segment, which provided a platform for each Cohort 1 teacher to share the rich knowledge they’ve gained and successfully applied over the past two years. Focused on the core themes of culturally responsive teaching (e.g., multiliteracies, translanguaging, and family engagement through content and language integrated approaches), these presentations offered a deep dive into the practical application of these essential pedagogical strategies across various disciplines. For instance, teachers detailed their experiences of integrating translanguaging into content areas as diverse as mathematics, science, and history. They highlighted how these practices not only enhance communication in multilingual classrooms but also foster an inclusive learning environment that respects and utilizes linguistic diversity. The dialogue also extended to the vital role of engaging multilingual families and communities, emphasizing the positive impact of such involvement on student success. One standout presentation compared the translanguaging practices employed in schools with a high number of multilingual learners against those with fewer, providing critical insights into the adaptability and effectiveness of these methods in different educational contexts. The session featured intriguing topics like “A Genre Study of Biographies Using the Teaching and Learning Cycle,” “’No seas un burro como yo.’: A Case Study of Linguistics and a Nicaraguan Newcomer,” and “Translanguaging in the Classroom: Bridging Cultures and Building Knowledge.” Each teacher supported their narrative with videos, audio clips, and student artifacts, vividly showcasing the successful implementation of culturally responsive teaching and translanguaging strategies in their classrooms. These capstone presentations were not only a testament to the commitment of our Cohort 1 teachers but also a clear demonstration of the enhanced educational expertise they have built through the ACE-STEM program. This segment truly exemplified the transformative power of their professional learning, underscoring the profound impact on both teachers and students alike.
As the insightful presentations concluded, attendees gathered back in the main hall for the closing ceremony of our workshop. This segment began with the ceremonial distribution of certificates, a proud moment for each Cohort 1 teacher. One by one, they were called to the stage to receive their certificates, met with applause and congratulations from the ACE-STEM and PWCS leadership and were recognized for their dedication and hard work throughout the program. The ceremony provided an opportunity for Cohort 1 teachers to share their reflections and experiences with the audience. Teachers openly expressed their gratitude for the comprehensive knowledge they had acquired, which has significantly boosted their confidence in teaching multilingual learners. Many highlighted the friendships and professional connections formed during the program, emphasizing the strong sense of community that had developed. This network, they noted, had been instrumental in enhancing their teaching practices and providing support throughout their ACE-STEM journey. Additionally, heartfelt thanks were extended to the PWCS mentor coaches, whose guidance and support were pivotal in navigating the challenges and successes of the program. The closing ceremony was not just a celebration of academic and professional achievement, but also an affirmation of the vibrant and supportive community that defines the ACE-STEM program. This conclusion to the event beautifully encapsulated the spirit of collaboration and mutual support that will undoubtedly continue to inspire these educators as they move forward in their daily work with multilingual learners and families.
