ESL Teaching Academy

The ESL Teaching Academy offers hands-on training delivered by faculty and experienced, practicing professionals in the field of ESL and TESOL.  The academy is a weekend-college program throughout the semesters, with the summer being the only time when classes are offered in a fast-track mode.  

Advisement for the ESL Teaching Academy has moved to office C125 in the Transition Center. For further information, please contact Maria Caratini Prado, Director Community Programs, at 972-860-7019 or by email at mcaratini@dcccd.edu

The latest graduates from the ESL Academy

Who registers for classes in the ESL Teaching Academy?

The ideal participant is a native or near-native speaker of English, or a participant who has advanced-level English language proficiency. The Academy serves students with varying educational objectives. 

• Many have no prior teaching experience or training and want to become ESL teachers
• Some are experienced teachers seeking professional development
• Numerous are seeking credentials to teach ESL overseas
• Others are preparing  for a second or retirement career

The ESL Teaching Academy coursework is helpful for Texas public school teachers preparing for the ExCET exam.  Teachers may use the courses as continuing professional development in ESL.  The seven colleges in the DCCCD are pre-approved as providers of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through the State Board of Education Certification.  This enables teachers to apply successfully completed hours towards requirements for Standard Certification renewal.  (The SBEC number for Eastfield Community College is 500575.)

What is the structure and cost of the ESL Teaching Academy?

• Complete all 9 courses (6 core, 2 electives and the Observation and Practicum) to receive the comprehensive Skills Award Certificate or take only those specific classes you desire for professional development
• The complete program entails approximately 115 hours of instruction, depending on electives selected, and costs approximately $750
• Classes are offered in the evening and on week-ends to accommodate working professionals
• Courses are offered in the fall and spring and participants can begin in either semester
• All requirements for certification can be completed in 10 months
• Financial aid is available and should be sought at least two weeks prior to the beginning of the class

The courses are designed to enhance teacher effectiveness in the adult ESL classroom and provide an overview of current teaching methods, approaches, and techniques that are supported by recent scholarship and research.

What instructional areas are covered in the courses?

• 2nd language acquisition
• Whole-language learning
• The 4 language skills
• Lesson planning
• Classroom management
• Assessment
• Teacher resources
• Use of technology

ESL Teaching Academy Course Descriptions

ESL Instructor Skills Award