Addressing Rural English Learners' Learning Needs

• In Event: Knowledge and Care: Language Equity for Rural Students

Abstract

While rural communities are not monolithic, many have seen recent dramatic shifts in demographics from historically homogeneous populations to more racially, culturally, and linguistically diverse residents (e.g. Sharp & Lee, 2017; Brenner, 2016). Such shifts can leave little time to adjust to the distinct needs diverse students (Hansen-Thomas, et al., 2016). As an alternative approach, this paper outlines systemic approaches for addressing the emerging teacher certification and professional development needs to related to supporting students from increasingly diverse backgrounds(Flores, Claeys, Gist, Clark & Villareal, 2015; O’Neal, Ringler, & Rodriguez, 2008). By building on previous research around the need for rigorous teacher certification programs, this paper offers adaptive solutions for rural education stakeholders.

Authors

• Elizabeth Thorne-Wallington, Missouri Western State University

• Adrienne Johnson, Missouri Western State University