ML Chat: Conversations with Multilingual Educators

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, equitable classrooms. Highlighting teacher mindset and relationships, you’ll learn how to connect language, culture, and instruction.

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 train-the-trainer model and a language-based instructional framework are helping thousands of educators confidently support ML students.

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 at the secondary level. It’s thoughtful, strategic work that makes a true difference for multilingual learners.

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 confidence and amplify student voice. See how innovation can start small and grow to make a big impact.

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 reminder that creativity and meeting curriculum standards can go hand-in-hand.

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 immediate use. The conversation highlights how collaboration and understanding students help bridge the gap between home and school.

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 and leadership create a cohesive districtwide approach that truly supports multilingual learners.

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 offers insights on professional growth, supporting English learners with literacy challenges, collaboration, and connecting with students.

As CEO of Kids Count and Read Two and Director at UCLA Crest (ELPA 21), Dr. Joby 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 relationship-building can create lasting impact for students and educators alike.