Lunch with LARAEC
Welcome to Lunch with LARAEC!
To continue the magic of our LARAEC conferences throughout the year, join your hosts Justin and Michele at our lunch time series. Sessions are selected for general interest, support of remote instruction and learning, curriculum, student support services, or educational research. Upcoming topics are included below.
Please register for each session so we can send you reminders, any last minute updates, and meeting materials.
If you are interested in presenting a Lunch with LARAEC session, you can submit a proposal by clicking the link below or contact Michele Stiehl at michele.stiehl@lausd.net Suggestions for future sessions are also welcome.
Lunch with LARAEC
Grab Your Lunch and Join Michele and Justin for some Amazing PD! Thursdays from 12:30-1:30pm
Season 6 of Lunch with LARAEC is here! Register now for all of the great sessions!
Top Tips and Tricks to Help Transition Students to Their What's Next
May 14th, 2026 12:30 PM-1:30pm
Presenter: LARAEC’s Counseling and Transitions Team is composed of dedicated educators from our 5 member districts tasked with engaging faculty and staff in understanding transitions in a way to increase support for students
I can do it, so I'll keep coming!
May 28th, 2026 12:30 PM-1:30pm
Presenter: Dave Coleman, LAUSD DACE ESL Specialist with the Curriculum and Instruction School Support Team, has a master’s in collaborative educational leadership and is an instruction, cognition, and language learning geek. He is passionate about teaching the way students learn in ways that make teachers happy to teach.
Beyond Deep Breaths: Managing Stress, Anxiety, and Depression in the Classroom and in Life
Pending new date. Please excuse any inconvenience this may cause.
Adult face unique pressures that can affect their success in the classroom. This session helps educators identify signs of stress, anxiety, and depression, while offering practical strategies that support students—and can also be used by teachers to manage their own stress and well-being.
Presenter: Leda Knee is a Mental Health Consultant for the Medical Services Division at LAUSD. She is a passionate advocate for mental health support.
Lunch with LARAEC Archive
2025-2026 Sessions
| Date of Session | Zoom Link | Title of Session | Resources |
|---|---|---|---|
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May 7th, 2026 |
Recording |
Come On and Take a “Free Write”: A Low-Stakes Writing Routine for Any Classroom with Amy Sleep |
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April 23rd, 2026 |
Vocabulary Learning Strategies: Setting the Table for the Lexical Feast with Jayme Adelson-Goldstein |
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April 9th, 2026 |
Recording |
Supporting Immigrant Students Through Civics Education! Presented by Bob Proctor |
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Feb 19, 2026 |
Joy in Motion: Getting Students Talking, Moving, and Connecting! Presented by Olivia Hanley |
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Feb 5, 2026 |
Teaching in the Age of AI: Your Guide to the Good, the Bad, and the Slightly Unnerving Presented by Brent Warner |
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Jan 29, 2026 |
Best Practices for Teaching Beginners: Tools, Tips, and Activities that Work! Presented by Wendy Klatt |
Resources and PowerPoint Presentation |
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Jan 22, 2026 |
Back to Basics: Mastering Effective Strategies in the Adult Ed Classroom. Presented by Saudeka Shabazz |
Information about content can be obtained by emailing: calpro@air.org |
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Dec 11, 2025 |
Engage, Empower, Differentiate: Station Rotation for Adult Learners Presented by Miranda Currie |
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Dec 4, 2025 |
An Insider’s Guide to Unlocking CASAS Data with Generative AI for Tailored Student Support Presented by Alisa Takeuchi |
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Nov 22, 2025 |
Using AI to Generate Effective, Fun, and Interactive Classroom Activities Presented by Kristi Reyes |
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Nov 6, 2025 |
Practical Tips and Tricks for Maximizing Persistence and Engagement Among Low Literacy Students Presented by Gretchen Bitterlin |
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2024-2025 Sessions
| Date of Session | Zoom Link | Title of Session | Resources |
|---|---|---|---|
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May 29, 2025 |
Teaching in the Age of AI-Everything You Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask Presented by Brent Warner of Irvine Valley College |
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May 22, 2025 |
Connecting Textbook Lessons and Games to the English Language Proficiency Standards for Online Classes! Presented by Donna Price |
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May 15, 2025 |
Connect, Collaborate, Create: Marximizing the New CASAS Teacher Portal Presented by the CASAS Team |
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May 8, 2025 |
Beyond the Classroom: Real-world Learning Through Community Connections Presented by Carolyn Corrie, Pasadena City College |
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May 1, 2025 |
Supporting Low Performance, Low Attendance Classes Presented by the Salinas Superstars |
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April 10, 2025 |
Turning the Cruise Ship: LARAEC Three Year Plan Highlights with Justin and Michele |
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March 6, 2025 |
Fast, focused, and Effective: Microlearning for Classroom Success Presented by: Edgar Zardaryan, Burbank USD |
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February 27, 2025 |
Student Engagement Through Active Teaching Strategies Presented by: Jaya George, Los Angeles USD |
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February 20, 2025 |
Move, Speak, Connect: Dynamic Strategies for Classroom Engagement Presented by: Brad Wheeler, Culver City Adult School |
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February 6, 2025 |
How to become an UndocuAlly: Supporting Undocumented Students Presented by: Javier Carbajal-Ramos, LA Valley College |
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January 30, 2025 |
Connecting Textbook Lessons and Games to English Language Proficiency Standards Presented by: Donna Price |
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January 23, 2025 |
An Insider’s Guide to Using AI to Develop ESL Lessons and Materials Presented by: Jake Baldwin, Burbank Adult School |
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January 16, 2025 |
Tips and Tricks to Boost Student Retention, Persistence, and Paired Scores. PLUS BONUS CONTENT on the profound impact of adult education on families. Presented by: Salinas Adult School |
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December 12, 2024 |
Enhancing Classroom Learning with Grab and Go Lesson Plans |
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November 14, 2024 |
Back to the Basics: Best Practices in the Adult Education Classroom |
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November 7, 2024 |
Allied Health and ELL Students:
Strategies for Supercharging
Student Success |
2023-2024 Sessions
| Scheduled Sessions | Zoom Link | Time | Title of Session | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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May 2, 2024 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Uncovering the Secrets of Student Persistence Presenters: APT Counseling and Transitions Group |
Closed |
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April 11, 2024 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Preparing Students for STEPS Assessment Success Presenters: Miranda LaBatt and Julia Groman from Burlington |
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April 4, 2024 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Differentiating Instruction Presenters: Martha Martinez & Sandra Lopez from LAUSD |
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March 14, 2024 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Using UDL to Increase Engagement, Equity, and Access Presenters: Karin de Varennes from OTAN |
Closed |
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February 29, 2024 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Using Technology to Create and Engaging and Dynamic Classroom Presenters: Helen Chade-Mahshi from Cambridge Assessment |
Closed |
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February 22 2024 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Strategies for Hosting an Immigration Event Presenters: Angel Amaro and Patty Arellano from LA City College |
Closed |
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February 8 2024 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Practical Classroom Activities
for ELPS and New CASAS STEPS test Presenters: Donna Price and Gretchin Bitterlin |
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January 25, 2024 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Digital Tools and Strategies for GED Success Presenters: Debi Faucette and Lisa Pool Osorio, GED Testing Services |
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January 23, 2024 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Preparing to Succeed with the New CASAS STEPS Test Presenters: Dave Coleman and Bob Proctor, LAUSD Curriculum and Instruction Unit |
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January 18, 2024 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Incorporating Infographics to increase engagement and connect with workforce topics Presenter: Andrew O’Shea, National Sales manager for Nat Geo Learning |
PowerPoint |
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December 14, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Supporting Undocumented Students Presenter: Javier Carbajal Ramos, LA Valley College |
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December 7, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Using ChatGPT for Teacher Lesson Support Presenter: Susan Gaer, OTAN |
Closed |
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November 30, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Insider’s Guide to Supporting Noncredit Adult Ed Students Presenters: Dra. Raquel Michel-Jackson & Sandra Pena from Los Angeles City College |
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November 16 , 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Engaging All Learners Online: Including Special Education and AWD students Presenter: Dr. Mary Gallagher |
Closed |
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November 9, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Engaing All Learners Online: Including Special Education and AWD students Presenter: Elisia Doonan, OTAN Subject matter expert and San Diego College of Continuing Education |
Closed |
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November 2, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Universal Design for Learning: Advancing Student Equity and Achievement Presenter: Francisco Narciso, LAUSD Curriculum and Instruction Team |
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October 19, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Unleashing the Power of AI in Adult Education Presenter: Kristi Reyes, MIra Costa College |
2022-2023 Sessions
| Scheduled Sessions | Zoom Link | Time | Title of Session | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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May 18, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Onboarding Students with Counseling and in On-line & In-person Classrooms Presenter: LARAEC Counseling and Transitions Team |
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May 11, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Stuff I Wish I Knew- Canva Flyers and Posters Presenter: Samantha Ross, LAUSD |
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May 4, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Project Based Learning in ESL and ABE Presenter: Kristi Reyes, Mira Costa College |
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April 27, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Voice From the Field: IET nd the Importance of Student Input Presenter: Dr. Francisco Narciso |
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April 20, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Simplifying Language to Promote Persistence and Motivation Presenter: Lee Shainis, Author, Trainer, and Founder of Simplify Language |
closed |
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April 13, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Virtual Tools to Boost Accessibility and Engagement Presenters: Margaret Cooney (BUSD), Patricia Gamboa (BUSD), and Dr. Q (LAUSD). |
closed |
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February 23, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Incorporating Blended Learning Instructional Strategies Presenter: Karyn Ruiz |
closed |
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February 16, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Strategies for Creating Equitable Schools Presenter: Sudie Whelan |
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February 9, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Transform Your Classroom with Collaborative Writing Tasks Presenter: Kristi Reyes |
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February 2, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Access America-USA Learns (100% Free) Integration ESL Course Presenter: Alisa Takeuchi |
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January 19, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Emotional Intelligence Practical Activities for your Classroom Presenter: Dr. Laura Manyweather |
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January 12, 2023 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Stuff I Wish I Knew Flippity, Answer Garden, and Classroom Screen Presenter: Samantha Ross |
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December 15, 2022 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Leveraging Social Media to Increase Enrollment and Engagement Presenters: Josh Borja & Pierre Giammattei |
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December 8, 2022 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Website Essentials Presenters: Pierre Giammattei & Josh Borja |
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December 1, 2022 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Stuff I Wish I Knew: Google Voice and Calendly Presenter: Samantha Ross |
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November 10, 2022 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Developing Highly Effective Marketing Messages for Targeted Recruitment Presenter: Celina Shands, Full Capacity Marketing, Inc. |
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October 27, 2022 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Stuff I Wish I Knew: Time Saving Tips Presenter: Samantha Ross |
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October 20, 2022 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
New!! LARAEC Student and Staff Resources Website!! |
Closed |
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Previous Years
| Scheduled Sessions | Zoom Link | Time | Title of Session | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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May 5, 2022 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
LARAEC Three Year Plan 2022-2025 Highlights and Feedback Presenters Justin Gorence and Michele Stiehl |
Closed |
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April 21, 2022 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Maximize Persistence and Engagement in your classroom Straightforward and high-impact tips Presenter Dave Coleman |
Closed |
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December 16, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
The Best FREE Library Resources for Adult Students Learn about free tutoring, learning languages, exam prep, and more Presenter Kelly Tyler |
Closed |
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December 9, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Helping Students Onboard Approaches to support students, encourage engagement, and build relationships Presenters from MIraCosta and Palomar Colleges, and Poway Adult School |
Closed |
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May 6, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
The Power of Feedback! Using feedback to support student engagement and persistence Presenter: Dave Coleman, LAUSD |
Closed |
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April 29, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Remote Data! Data collection and testing strategies from our consortium. LARAEC Data Action Planning Team |
Closed |
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April 8 & 13, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
LARAEC EDGE Preview We will share event details and how to incorporate your classes Presenters: Justin Gorence and Michele Stiehl |
Closed |
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April 1, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Community College Financial Aid Understanding Programs and the FAFSA to guide your students Presenter: Pierce College, Anafe Robinson |
Closed |
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March 25, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Transition to College Registration Process and LA College Promise Presenters: ELAC, Alexander Velasquez and Stephanie Amaya |
Closed |
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February 25, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
ESL Learner Persistence Best Practices from 8 teachers with high persistence rates Presenters: Francisco Narciso and Wendy Heard |
Closed |
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February 18, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Teaching with Burlington Using Burlington to enhance your online ESL instruction. Presenters: Teacher Presenter |
Closed |
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February 11, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
How to Support Your Textbook with a Learning Management System (LMS): Canvas and Stand Out. Presenters: Rob Jenkins and Steve Maggiore |
Closed |
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February 4, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words Integrating video resources into lessons Presenters: Natasha Urias and Bruce Sahud |
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January 28, 2021 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Online Tools to Increase Interaction Presenters: Donna Price and Gretchen Bitterlin |
Closed |
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December 10, 2020 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Remote Orientation and Enrollment Strategies |
Closed |
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November 19, 2020 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Engaging Students on Zoom: Practical Tools & Tips |
Closed |
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November 12, 2020 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Break Free of Boredom: Zoom Breakrooms for ESL Classes |
Closed |
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November 5, 2020 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Real Skills Needed to Teach Online |
Closed |
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October 22, 2020 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Senate Bill 68 and What it Means for our Students |
Closed |
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October 15, 2020 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Introducing the Draft of Revised ESL Course Outlines |
Closed |
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October 8, 2020 |
12:30 – 1:30 PM |
Social Media to Engage and Retain Adult Students |
Closed |
Connecting Textbook Lessons and Games to the English Language Proficiency Standards
January 30th, 2025 12:30 PM-1:30pm
Want to add some additional games, mixers, and other communicative activities to your teaching palette? Join the amazing Donna Price as she shares activities that reinforce the ELPS for adult education. She will share five standards and demonstrate game-like activities that address the standard. Adaptable to any level, these activities reinforce listening, speaking, reading, writing, vocabulary, and grammar to prepare students for standardized tests that are based on the ELPS. If you’re looking for immediately implementable activities for your classroom, this presentation is for you!
Presenter: Donna Price taught all levels of ESL and VESL for over 40 years for the San Diego Community College Continuing Education Program. She presents at national and regional conferences on integrating workplace skills in ESL classes and transitioning students to academic and workforce programs. She is currently a teacher trainer and mentor. Donna is the author of Skills for Success and co-author of the Ventures series from Cambridge University Press.
Practical Tips and Tricks for Maximizing Persistence and Engagement Among Low Literacy Students
November 6th, 2025 12:30 PM-1:30pm
Low literacy students have specific needs and challenges. In this lively and interactive session, Gretchen will share practical strategies and easily implementable ideas to engage learners and provide a roadmap for teaching success. She’ll also share resources that instructors can use to supercharge their classrooms!
Presenter: Gretchen Bitterlin has been an ESL instructor and ESL department instructional leader with the Continuing Education Program, San Diego Community College District since 1971. She was an ESL Teacher Institute Trainer and Chair of the TESOL Task Force on Adult Education Program Standards. She is co-author of English for Adult Competency.
Additional Zoom Information
Join Zoom Meeting
https://wearedace.zoom.us/j/96043747256
Meeting ID: 960 4374 7256
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Meeting ID: 960 4374 7256
