ML Chat

Drawing on decades of experience from the classroom to research and state-level policy, Dr. Megan Alubicki-Flick shares what it takes to turn policy into action that supports multilingual learners. She explains why shared responsibility across systems, leaders, and educators is essential to advancing common goals. She… Read more

Dr. Doris Chavez-Linville challenges educators and leaders to question the framework they use to interpret data. Drawing on more than 25 years in EdTech and research on multilingual learner assessment, she explains why data should inform decisions, not make them. She encourages educators to consider what students know… Read more

From her own journey as a language learner to teaching in South Korea, China, and Morocco, multilingual educator and consultant Patrice Thompson has seen firsthand how language policies shape students’ experiences. She shares how translanguaging can move classrooms beyond English-only practices, along with strategies… Read more

Dr. Simone Wilkinson shares how her experience as a secondary administrator and current elementary principal has shaped a leadership approach grounded in listening. From student focus groups and family engagement to learning from staff, she emphasizes understanding a school community before introducing change. She… Read more

Drawing from her own journey, Dr. Marie Heath explains why creating a sense of belonging helps multilingual learners thrive both academically and personally. She shares why acculturation and developing a bicultural identity are essential to student success. She also highlights how schools can build systems that… Read more

Sally Baer, NBCT, shares how teacher agency can transform professional growth by encouraging educators to take ownership of their learning. She explains why focusing on one area of genuine interest, rather than trying to improve everything at once, leads to more sustainable growth. Through reflection and… Read more

Dr. Jennifer Lovellette shares how her district used student shadowing to better understand multilingual learners’ school experience. The process revealed that well-intentioned scaffolds often limited productive struggle and that students needed more opportunities for academic discourse. She also discusses how her… Read more

Drawing on teacher feedback and classroom observations, Dr. Lisa Auslander shares how her team continually refines curriculum and resources for newcomers and SLIFE students. She explains why supporting implementation is just as important as developing materials, using coaching, office hours, and professional learning… Read more

Ndey Tida Kejera shares how growing up multilingual in Senegal and The Gambia shaped her belief that language, culture, and community are inseparable. Drawing from her experiences learning multiple languages and adapting to life in the United States, she explains why preserving home languages matters. She also shares… Read more

After struggling in school herself and entering education later in life, Dr. Carol Salva became passionate about helping multilingual learners recognize how smart they are. She shares how an asset-based mindset, intrinsic motivation, and “little wins” can build confidence and engagement, especially for SLIFE students.… Read more

Carlene Thomas, an educational consultant supporting districts nationwide, shares how to move from intention to impact by simplifying implementation and aligning systems. She emphasizes that lasting change is “simple, not easy,” requiring clear expectations, follow-through, and time. Through reflection on practice and… Read more

Dr. Dorina Sackman-Ebuwa shares how to support neurodivergent, dually identified multilingual learners through empathy and research-based practices. She reframes diagnoses like autism and ADHD as tools for self-understanding, not limitations, and explores masking, emotional regulation, and inclusive practices like UDL… Read more

Dr. Kate Seltzer, former South Bronx high school ELA teacher and co-author of The Translanguaging Classroom , introduces translanguaging as both a theory and practice. She explains how bilingual students use one integrated linguistic system, not separate languages, and how flexible language use creates affirming,… Read more

In a district serving more than 156,000 students, including 30,000 multilingual learners speaking 162 languages, Daniel Yip, Michelle Hunsberger, and Dr. Luciana de Oliveira discuss shifting from a self-contained ELD model to shared responsibility for language development across content classrooms. They explain how a… Read more

Curious what it takes to lead a districtwide shift from a pullout program to an in-class, integrated ELD model? Kate Morin, Director of Multilingual Education for Mount Vernon School District, shares how long-term planning, trust-building, and consistent support made the transition possible, despite unique challenges… Read more

Drawing from her work in small, rural districts, Desiree Kiesel explores how relationship-building, asset-based approaches, and adaptability play a key role in multilingual learner success. You’ll hear how smaller districts can move quickly to implement new strategies, like speech and debate, to build student… Read more

What happens when student talk takes center stage? On the ML Chat Podcast, educator and Stanford researcher Jeff Zwiers discusses how academic discourse, teaching big ideas with flexibility, and student-centered oral language routines drive deeper thinking and engagement for multilingual learners. It’s a refreshing… Read more

President of Arkansas TESOL and Director of ESL, Christen Graham, shares how her district turned mission into action during a sudden influx of Afghan refugee students. She discusses building newcomer centers, engaging families through community partnerships, and equipping educators with practical strategies for… Read more

Soledad and Vanina of Guilford County Schools join ML Chat to share how Pathway reading and writing strategies and the 3L’s Framework (Learning, Language, and Literacy) improve outcomes for multilingual learners. Their work coordinating PD, teacher onboarding, mentorship, and newcomer schools shows how collaboration… Read more

Today’s episode is like a pep talk from a friend! Author, speaker, and ELL specialist Andrea Bitner reminds educators to prioritize balance and self-care. Her newest book, When Niagara Falls , tells a story of resilience, a struggling student, and a teacher who never gives up. With over 24 years in education, Andrea… Read more

As CEO of Kids Count and Read Too, Dr. Jobi Lawrence has spent 30 years advocating for English learners and at-risk students. In this ML Chat episode, she shares her journey from launching ESL programs in rural Iowa to shaping national multilingual education policy. She also highlights how collaboration and… Read more

With nearly four decades in education, Lynda Espinoza Idle is a passionate advocate for all multilingual learners—especially those with dual needs. Today on the ML Chat Podcast, she shares how collaboration, tiered support systems, data, and family partnerships can transform outcomes. She also explains why early… Read more

With 26 years of experience, Beverly Kerr joins the ML Chat Podcast to share how Title I schools, among others, can create equitable and inclusive ML classrooms. She emphasizes the importance of building relationships and addressing the needs of dually identified and trauma-affected learners. Discover how foundational… Read more

You’ll be inspired by this week’s ML Chat guest, Valentina Gonzalez. Her journey began as an immigrant and language learner, and she is now a 25-year veteran in multilingual education and co-author of Welcome to Teaching Multilingual Learners . An advocate for ML students and language-rich classrooms, Valentina… Read more

How do you serve multilingual learners across a large district using current resources? In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, Dr. Merica Clinkenbeard, Director of ELD for Springfield Public Schools, Missouri, shares how she leverages collaboration, teacher leadership, and language-rich instruction to drive systemic… Read more

Join the ML Chat conversation with Maggie Churchill, veteran ESL Language Arts teacher and adjunct at William Paterson University. She shares how consistent routines and flexibility create stability for multilingual learners—especially those facing trauma, post-COVID challenges, and disrupted education. Discover how… Read more

Tune in to the ML Chat Podcast for practical strategies to create literacy-rich classrooms. Heather Benitez, ESL Coordinator and veteran teacher, shares how she fosters academic discourse and builds structured literacy routines across content areas. Serving a Texas district with 26 languages, Heather champions… Read more

ELD coach and teacher Heather Nyseth brings a unique dual perspective to the ML Chat Podcast. She shares how coach-teacher relationship-building, professional development with teacher choice, and reflective practices have fueled growth across her district. Heather highlights the resilience of multilingual learners and… Read more

Join our esteemed panel of educators as they reflect on their mission to integrate the science of reading into ESL instruction. Dr. Jennifer Pendergrass-Bennefield, Dr. Tabatha Tierce, Dr. David Chiesa, and Assistant Superintendent John Parker discuss Georgia’s dyslexia law and how ESL, special education, and general… Read more

In today’s MLChat, Dr. Marlowe Cross and Jon Auld from Metro Nashville Public Schools share their experiences supporting teachers and multilingual learners as EL coaches. Discover practical strategies for integrating English language development into secondary content classes for accelerated student growth. Plus,… Read more

If your goal is to offer multilingual students an inclusive and supportive environment, you won’t want to miss this episode of the ML Chat Podcast. EL Coordinator Graham Litters discusses the value of co-teaching models, sharing strategies to encourage student interaction, language usage, and engagement. With double… Read more

This episode of ML Chat is a love letter to multilingual learners and the teachers who fight for them. Mandi Morris sits down with Martha Boisselle and Kristen Leathers, whose work in Boston Public Schools is transforming what it means to teach English—not as a barrier, but as a bridge. It’s a story of heart, courage,… Read more

In this episode of ML Chat, Steve Gill and Marcelo Sousa engage in a powerful conversation about what it truly means to support multilingual learners. Drawing on their personal experiences and decades of work in schools, they discuss how empathy, mentorship, and listening to students' stories can transform education.… Read more

Join the ML-Chat Podcast as Dr. Suha Solano, a trailblazing leader for multilingual learners, shares her powerful journey from the Dominican Republic to Delaware’s Brandywine School District. With heart, humor, and hard-earned wisdom, she dives into the tools and strategies transforming classrooms into empowering… Read more

Is curiosity the secret ingredient to success in education? This week’s ML Chat Podcast highlights Dr. Ester De Jong, a trailblazer in bilingual education. From beginning her career in the Netherlands to shaping ESL education in the U.S., Dr. De Jong shares why curiosity is key to a thriving teaching career and how… Read more

In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, ML-specialist Adriana Cernucan and K-12 science coordinator Leslie Jones dish out how they’re supercharging language learning with content-based science classes. By blending language goals with science lessons, they’re helping students boost both writing and content… Read more

As the Director of Multilingual Instructional Support at Aldine ISD, Jeanette Mercer leads the charge in supporting over 57,000 students across 80 campuses. Jeanette joins the ML Chat Podcast and reveals the game-changing strategies behind her district’s success, and how teachers and students alike are reaping the… Read more

On this episode of the ML Chat podcast, we dive into Sarah Whitfield’s rapidly changing world as a District ML Instructional Specialist for Cabarrus County Schools. As the ML population in North Carolina grows, Sarah and her district grow along with it, developing enrichment programs and inclusive teaching practices… Read more

Educator Lauren MacLean has found a powerful community-based approach to teaching multilingual learners. In this week’s ML Chat podcast, Lauren shows us the importance of building meaningful connections with students and their families, playing to a student’s strengths, and how teachers can learn from their students… Read more

Get schooled by our latest discussion with Dr. Kate Toppel, educator, organizer, and author of DIY PD: A Guide to Self-Directed Learning for Educators of Multilingual Learners . She shares strategies for successful co-teaching, balancing responsibilities with motherhood, and the power of K.I.S.S. - Keeping It Simple,… Read more

Erick Olivas joins the ML Chat Podcast to share about his journey of immigrating to the U.S. with his family at age 2. Hear about his parents’ sacrifice, overcoming the language barrier, and how playing soccer kept his feet on the ground through it all.

In this ML Chat Podcast episode, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris talk with Erick Casallas, Assistant Superintendent for English Learners in Clark County, Las Vegas. Erick shares his journey from school volunteer to district leader, offering insights on supporting English learners through love, respect, and active… Read more

In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris chat with Jessica Payano, a former NYC science teacher and educational consultant. Jessica shares tips for integrating language learning into content classes, building schema, and activating prior knowledge. Learn high-impact, low-effort strategies… Read more

In this ML Chat Podcast episode, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandy Morris welcome seasoned educators Meg Burke and Bethany Gale to discuss building impactful professional learning networks (PLNs). They share insights on creating effective PLNs, their WIDA conference presentation, and the power of flexible professional… Read more

In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris dive into an inspiring talk with Shawn Ford, an educator from Kapi'olani Community College in Hawai'i. Shawn reveals his unexpected path into teaching and the game-changing Second Language Teaching Program that’s shaping future TESOL… Read more

Don't miss this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, where Mary Castanuela, a first-generation Mexican American and Regional Testing Coordinator, shares her journey of balancing cultural heritage with educational success. Mary offers powerful insights on supporting bilingual students, fostering collaboration, and… Read more

Join host Mandi Morris on the ML Chat Podcast as she interviews Fred Pleis, an instructional specialist for multilingual learners in Charleston County. Fred shares his journey from aspiring accountant to teacher, shaped by martial arts, and his work in multilingual education across Philadelphia, California, and… Read more

In this ML Chat Podcast episode, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris talk with Mia Allen, a veteran educator with 25 years of experience serving language learners. Mia shares her journey as a teacher, coach, consultant, and WIDA certified trainer, discussing her work in dual language curriculums, SLIFE teaching, and… Read more

In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris chat with Dave Gomez, Director of Educational Equity for Granite School District, about his 30-year career in education. He shares his journey from bilingual tutor to leadership roles, reflecting on his migrant background, mentorship, and the… Read more

In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris dive into a dynamic conversation with Jannelle Kubinec, the visionary CEO of WestEd. Discover how Kubinec is driving change through research-based practices, embracing joyful learning environments, and empowering teachers. Jannelle talks… Read more

In this ML Chat Podcast episode, language educator Noemi Rodriguez joins hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris to discuss her insights into language education, curriculum design, and AI's role in classrooms. Noemi shares her motivation from her mother's multilingual journey and explores AI's benefits and challenges in… Read more

In this ML Chat Podcast episode, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris talk with Tatyana, Deputy Project Director for the National Clearinghouse for English Language Acquisition. With over 20 years of experience, Tatyana shares her journey as an English learner from Moldova and her expertise in second language… Read more

In this ML Chat Podcast episode, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris interview Tan Huynh, an experienced educator specializing in English language acquisition. They discuss his teaching methods, collaboration in classrooms, his new book with Beth Skelton, and the importance of content learning and language… Read more

In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris speak with Robert Gouthro, ML Coordinator for Berkeley County School District. Gouthro discusses managing the rise of multilingual learners, effective programs, and supporting teachers. He stresses the need for systemic changes, better data… Read more

In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris welcome Risa Woods, an advocate for newcomer and English learner students. Risa shares practical tips and insights from her influential Instagram channel, stressing the significance of championing students rather than sympathizing for them.… Read more

Join hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris on the ML Chat Podcast as they welcome Beth Skelton, a distinguished language educator and co-author of 'Long Term Success for Experienced Multilinguals.' Beth shares her journey, providing invaluable guidance for educators and administrators on multilingual education. Delving… Read more

Marybelle Marrero Colon, from the Center for Applied Linguistics, offers a valuable perspective on identifying learning disabilities in English learners while leaning into her own journey to share insight and perspective for students walking through the identification process. Learn about the significance of… Read more

Step into the captivating world of immigrant narratives on this ML Chat Podcast episode with Tea Rozman, co-founder of Green Card Voices. She shares her remarkable journey from working in refugee camps to empowering individuals through storytelling. Her work brings transformative impact by amplifying immigrant… Read more

Tune in to the ML Chat podcast for an interview with Kia Johnson from the Center for Applied Linguistics! Discover her journey from paraprofessional to education leader, perspectives on family engagement, Title III compliance, and teacher advocacy. Get valuable information on alternative certification and teacher… Read more

Tune in to the ML Chat podcast with hosts Justin and Mandi as they discuss Elizabeth Sanchez Szepesi's insights around building and growing a dual-language program. Explore topics like assessment equity in both goal languages and growing a dual-language program to meet the changing needs of your district. Elizabeth… Read more

In Episode 21 of ML Chat Podcast, Maria's infectious enthusiasm for science teaching sparks lifelong curiosity among students. Collaborating with peers and instructional coaches, Maria fosters a vibrant learning community. Her approach transforms the classroom into a shared space of discovery, integrating content… Read more

Join Pamela Broussard, a multilingual educator and advocate, as she unpacks empowering strategies to enhance student engagement while building student independence and confidence. Broussard shares insights from her Leading ELLs Facebook group, which promotes resource-sharing among educators. She exemplifies a… Read more

Uncover innovative strategies for authentic assessments, tailored for multilingual learners. Learn from leaders Steph Just and Jackie Griffin about formative assessments, inclusive systems, and maintaining high expectations with flexibility. Elevate your teaching practices with practical insights about the cycle of… Read more

In Episode 18 of the ML Chat Podcast, educators Kathy Alston and Keenan Lee discuss their co-teaching model for multilingual students at Harrisburg School District. They share insights on relationship-building among teachers, adapting to student demographics, and overcoming challenges post-COVID. Be inspired by their… Read more

Embark on an insightful conversation with Mandi Morris, the National Curriculum and Instruction Specialist for Flashlight Learning, as she discusses the intricate landscape of teaching English as a second language. Explore the challenges in secondary English learning education, from resource scarcity to teacher… Read more

This week on the ML Chat Podcast we are bringing you something a little different. Last month we hosted our latest in the ML Chat Webinar Series where we were joined by multilingual educators from across the country to discuss high-stakes assessments. The webinar featured Jen Albury and Jayme Croff, who you may have… Read more

Embark on Connie Sisneros' inspiring journey from monolingual teacher to ESL specialist and bilingual director. Uncover the impact of professional development, Flashlight 360, and high expectations on student success. Dive into her valuable advice for fostering collaborative growth in bilingual and ESL instruction.

Step into an engaging podcast conversation with the remarkable educator and multilingual education advocate, Jen Albury. She shares her inspiring journey from teaching in Mexico to her current role in Holyoke Public Schools, Massachusetts. Discover the power of asset-based teaching, student-centric learning, and the… Read more

Step into the world of education transformation with Jonathan Lemaster on the ML Chat Podcast. As a language and learning specialist in the Poway Unified School District in San Diego, and the co-founder of Literacy Geeks, Jonathan's passion for skill-based instruction and ed tech shines through. With over two decades… Read more

Dive into the dynamic world of multilingual education with Jayme Croff, a passionate advocate and leader in the field. Join the ML Chat Podcast as Jayme shares her inspiring journey, from the classroom to supporting diverse learners, and the transformative shift towards inclusive, asset-based approaches. Discover the… Read more

In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast Kim Peterson joins Justin and Tim to delve into the pivotal role of speaking for English learners. She underscores its significance as a foundation for success in reading and writing and ultimately being able to pass the state assessment. Kim also walks through her journey of… Read more

This week on the ML Chat Podcast we are excited our final episode from our Voices of NABE Series where you get to hear directly from the ML Community that joined us at the 2023 NABE Conference. On this episode we ask educators the question "What do you wish you had known when you started your career?". Tim Blackburn… Read more

This week on the ML Chat Podcast we are excited for another episode from our Voices of NABE Series where you get to hear directly from the ML Community that joined us at the 2023 NABE Conference. On this episode we hear how educators are helping their students make connections across languages and build the language… Read more

This week on the ML Chat Podcast we continue our “Voices of NABE” series, where we get a chance to hear directly from the ML Community that joined us at the 2023 NABE Conference. On this episode we react to the answers to the question “How are you promoting writing fluency in your program”. Again, the answers are a… Read more

This week on the ML Chat Podcast we get a chance to hear directly from the ML Community who joined us at the 2023 NABE Conference. We asked them “how are you promoting oral fluency in your program” and their answers are fascinating and insightful. This is our first in our series of episodes from our interviews at… Read more

This week on the ML Chat Podcast, we are joined by Anabel Ortiz-Chavolla, the Director of Federal Programs & School Improvement at Ontario School District 8-C Annabel discusses the importance of embedding language standards in all content areas, or as she puts it, to have “language in the air”. Annabel dives into the… Read more

This week on the ML Chat Podcast, we are joined by Lisa Auslander, the Senior Project Director for Bridges to Academic Success. Lisa leads the team in professional learning, curriculum development and operations. She is a former teacher, coach and administrator who worked in New York City schools for over 15 years.… Read more

This week on The ML Chat Podcast Tim Blackburn joins us to complete our four-part series on the formative assessment process. In this episode, Tim recaps the importance of clear intended learning, eliciting evidence, and interpreting evidence as he builds to a discussion to the fourth and final part of the formative… Read more

This week on the ML Chat Podcast Tim Blackburn joins us again to continue the conversation around the formative assessment process. Tim walks us through having a clear intended learning destination, designing deliberate invitations for students to apprentice in target skills, and analyzing and interpreting how… Read more

This week on the ML Chat podcast we continue our conversation with Tim Blackburn about the formative assessment process. In this episode we unpack the second part, eliciting evidence. Tim shares about the learning journey our students are on and the challenges so many districts face as an increasing number become… Read more

This week on the ML Chat podcast we sat down with Tim Blackburn to talk about how he ended up in teaching, key practices he uses in his classroom, and what took him across the country from New York to Oregon to teach English language learners.