CSPG 68 - English as a Second Language (ESL) Program Specialist PK-12
Modified: September 1, 2018
English as a Second Language (ESL) is a term for the use or study of the English language by non-native speakers in an English-speaking environment. ESL also refers to specialized approaches to language teaching designed for those whose primary language is not English.
Grade-Level Scope of Certificate
A person holding a certificate for Program Specialist ESL is qualified to provide ESL services to students in grade levels PK-12. If teaching content, the instructor must hold the appropriate grade-level content certificate.
Certification Assignment
An ESL Program Specialist may:
- Provide English Language Development (ELD) instruction;
- ELD instruction is the systematic teaching of the linguistic features of English to non-native speakers.
- Select and design teaching resources for English Learners;
- Provide instructional adaptations/modifications to assist English Learners;
- Conduct effective assessments to identify levels of language proficiency, acquisition, and content learning;
- Monitor academic achievement of reclassified former English Learners;
- Participate in individualized education plan (IEP) preparation for English Learners receiving special education assistance/services;
- Provide ELD support to subject matter teachers;
- Provide school staff with resources/professional activities to promote understanding and sensitivity toward all cultures; and
- Provide appropriate information and services to the English Learner’s family.
Certificate Clarifications
A Program Specialist ESL certification is required to teach ELD or embed ELD instruction at the PK-12 grade level.
Special Considerations
An ESL Program Specialist may:
- Provide professional development; and
- Serve in the role of mentor/advisor.
References
22 PA Code: Chapter 49: §49.11
This revision supersedes all earlier CSPGs carrying this number and/or addressing this subject. Previous printing dates on this subject: 3/75, 1/87, 7/04, 5/17, 9/17, 6/18.
Summary of Changes
| 8/1/2018 | Adjusted section titled, Certificate Clarifications. |
| 6/1/2018 | - Defined ESL and ELD.
- Updated and clarified staffing information.
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| 9/1/2017 | Updated the ESL staffing information. |
| 5/1/2017 | - Removed statements from updated CSPG: Effective with the school year 2004-2005, all individuals providing ESL educational assistance/services were required to hold the Program Specialist ESL certificate.
- HQT staffing requirements are remove for the 2016-17 school year and adjusted. ESSA requirements added to the updated CSPG.
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| 7/2004 | The Program Specialist certificate was only issued for ESL and
required for teaching this program. |
| 12/1990 | CSPG #108 Staffing ESL and Bilingual Education Classes and
Programs – Described program types. |
| 10/1990 | - CSPG #80 – ESL (English credit) and Bilingual Education were staffed by any Level I or II (Instructional).
- CSPG #80 A – Discontinued the Program Specialist certificate.
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