More than 350 educators from Merced, Madera, Fresno and Stanislaus counties took part in a symposium recently to guide them on implementing common core standards for English-learners.
The symposium, held last week, was aimed at supporting participants' next steps in implementing those standards.
Since 2010, 45 states have adopted the same standards for English and math. Called the Common Core State Standards, they are designed to help all students get a good education, even if they change schools or move to a different state.
Teachers, parents and education experts designed the standards to prepare students for success in college and the workplace, according to the California Department of Education.
The symposium brought presenters to guide educators through best practices to implement these standards.
Kate Kinsella, who has a doctoral degree in education, develops custom course work for kindergarten through 12th-grade teachers at San Francisco State University's Center for Teacher Efficacy.
Her consulting, training and writing focus on improving the achievement of less proficient readers and immigrant students.
The other presenter, Sue Beers, shared tips for effective learning that teachers can bring back to the classroom and implement immediately.
She tried to provide participants with practical teaching strategies and encouraged them to take a closer look at their own practices.
The event was sponsored by the Merced County Office of Education, the Region VII Curriculum and Instruction Steering Committee and the Regional System of District and School Support.
"The Merced County Office of Education has been involved in providing awareness to many districts in our county, or the why and what about Common Core State Standards," said Kathy Pon, county assistant superintendent of instructional services.
"This conference helped teachers and district leaders consider next steps and the 'how' to launch implementation."
Reporter Doane Yawger can be reached at (209) 385-2407 or dyawger@mercedsunstar.com.
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