Second Language Acquisition or Disability
Free Webinar hosted by the TESOL Club
Sign up by e-mailing TESOL@umbc.edu to receive the webinar linkA growing number of students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds demonstrate unique learning needs as they work to acquire a new language, as well as meet national and state standards. However, one question which arises is whether the needs of these diverse learners are being appropriately addressed by schools/districts, or are English learners being disproportionately identified for special education services? Professionals in the field need to discuss the issues involved in identifying disabilities in English learners, which many times mimic second language acquisition, and identify alternatives to special education placement. Marybelle Marrero-Colón is a professional development content manager for the Center for Applied Linguistics. In her 33 years as an educator, inclusion specialist, program coordinator, administrator, and professional developer, Marybelle has acquired experience within the fields of ESL, Bilingual Education, Bilingual Special Education, Special Education instruction and evaluation, and Professional Development. For the Center for Applied Linguistics she has provided coaching, workshops, and presentations for schools, districts, national conferences, and various education based organizations in topics involving English Learners and Second Language Acquisition. Marybelle has a B.A. in Psychology & Spanish Language & Literature, an M.A. in Bilingual Special Education, and an M.S. in Administration & Supervision with a specialty in professional development. She is also a US Department of Education Title VII Fellow in Bilingual Special Education. |