Dual Language Educators Retreat
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Empowering Tandem Teachers for Cross-Linguistic Success
- Date: June 10–11, 2025
- Time: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM each day
- Location: Heritage Academy 3345 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407
- Meals: Light breakfast, coffee, and lunch provided
Join us for a 2-day learning experience designed to support dual language educators with practical, research-informed strategies that connect instruction across both program languages—while building community and clarity.
What Is the Dual Language Educators Retreat?
The Dual Language Educators Retreat is a 2-day, in-person professional learning experience designed specifically for teachers, coaches, and leaders working in dual language programs.
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Whether you're new to dual language or looking to deepen your practice, this retreat offers the space, support, and tools to grow your expertise, alongside a community that understands the joys and challenges of this work.
Who Should Attend?
This retreat is ideal for:
- Dual language educators (K-8)
- Instructional coaches and curriculum specialists
- School or district teams designing or refining their bilingual program.
đź“… Retreat Details
- Date: June 10–11, 2025
- Time: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM each day
- Location: Heritage Academy 3345 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407
- Meals: Light breakfast, coffee, and lunch provided
- Hotel Reservations: We have a block of discounted rooms at the Fairfield Inn Downtown. Click HERE to book with our group!
Day 1- Strategies for Effective InstructionÂ
Explore the foundational practices that support multilingual learners—what we call the common roots and soil of instruction.
You’ll learn:
- What effective instructional practices look like for multilingual learners
- How to differentiate based on language proficiency levels
- Ways to build consistency across program languages
- How to use the practices for ongoing self-reflection and professional growth
Day 2 - Introduction to the Cross-Linguistic PedagogiesÂ
Dig into the powerful instructional tools that bridge languages and empower students’ full linguistic repertoires.
You’ll explore:
- When and how to engage in translanguaging vs. language separation
- A continuum of instructional language use across the day and content areas
- Research-based cross-linguistic pedagogies and how to integrate them into your planning and teaching
Meet your retreat hosts!
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Meet Dr. Elizabeth Howard, professor of bilingual education at the University of Connecticut, where she teaches courses on linguistic and cultural diversity and conducts research on dual language education. She is the lead author of a number of professional resources for dual language educators, including Guiding Principles for Dual Language Education. Â
Meet Shera Simpson, an experienced educator specializing in dual language instruction. With 11 years of teaching and administrative experience in dual language education and a passion for fostering multicultural understanding, Shera is dedicated to empowering educators with effective strategies for language acquisition and cultural sensitivity.
Dream Team: Liz and Shera form an unparalleled dream team in the realm of dual language coaching and consulting. Liz’s extensive experience in research and teacher preparation brings academic rigor and depth to their partnership. Shera’s immersion in the practicalities of dual language education offers invaluable real-world insights and solutions. Together, they seamlessly blend theoretical expertise with practical wisdom, enriching the educational landscape with their combined efforts.Â
What do teachers say after participating in our workshops?
 "Highly recommend! Insightful and engaging—I feel more confident in supporting my multilingual learners."
"This transformed how I approach language teaching! Practical strategies with immediate impact."
