Across the United States, schools welcome immigrants and families who are new to the American culture and language. Success in school builds the foundation needed for success later in life in college, careers and as members of the community. Classroom teachers are the key to this success. We believe every teacher wants, and needs, the skills needed to ensure English Learners are successful in their classrooms.
About Us
What Is the ExcEL Leadership Academy?
The mission of the ExcEL Leadership Academy is to provide professional learning opportunities for all teachers to support high quality, equitable education for English Learners.
Building Skills to Educate Multilingual Learners
The ExcEL Leadership Academy offers job-embedded, learn-by-doing programs to help PK-12 teachers become more effective educators of multilingual learners in all academic areas. Research and practical knowledge make it clear that all teachers need training to prepare them to work effectively with multilingual learners, yet the majority of states, districts, and schools do not have any such requirement or provide even minimal training. This lack of foundational training is exacerbated by the documented shortage of teachers qualified to work with English Learners, with the US Department of Education reporting at least 35 states with shortages of teachers in this field (2019). As a result, many schools are struggling to even meet the legal obligations to multilingual learners, meaning they have access to teachers who are properly trained and certified to meet their needs.
Building Skills to Educate Multilingual Learners
Partnerships
The ExcEL Leadership Academy prioritizes partnerships with community organizations as well as educators. Over the years we have been fortunate to work with outstanding partners and together have leveraged impact to improve outcomes for students and families in the communities where we work.
UCLA - Center X
Center X provides a unique setting where researchers and practitioners collaborate to design and conduct programs that prepare and support K-12 teachers and administrators committed to social justice, instructional excellence, the integration of research and practice, and caring in low-income urban schools. Center X’s work extends across two graduate credential programs and many professional development initiatives. Learn more about UCLA Center X.
The Boys and Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley
Providing in a safe environment, programs that inspire, educate, guide, and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. Encouraging leadership, academic success, good character, citizenship, and a healthy lifestyle. Offering specialized support for English learners as part of its after-school programming. Learn more about the Boys and Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley.
Shelton Plumb Memorial Library
The Plumb Memorial Library is truly the jewel of Shelton. It is named for David Wells Plumb. Visitors can attend meetings and programs, research Shelton and Connecticut history, check out materials for enlightenment and fun, ask reference questions, use the technology available, and interact with their fellow community members. Learn more about the Plumb Memorial Library.
Latino U College access
Latino U college access empowers first generation Latino youth to enroll and graduate from college by providing students with the knowledge and support they need to achieve their dreams. Learn more about Latino U College Access.
RSHM Life Center
The LIFE Center is a community center offering programs and services that empower women and their families to take charge of their future and pursue their goals for an improved quality of life. Learn more about RSHM.