Teaching English Language Learners


Begin your journey in education with Teaching English Language Learners (TELL) at CWU, where you’ll gain the skills needed to support K-12 students in Washington State public schools whose first language is not English.

With this minor or endorsement, you'll be able to confidently address the needs of English Language Learners (ELL), ensuring they thrive academically and socially. Our engaging classes provide you with practical strategies and impactful tools tailored for diverse linguistic backgrounds. With our commitment to equipping educators, we know you’ll make a meaningful difference in your classroom and beyond.

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School of Education

At the Center of a Better Future

What You'll Study

Academic Catalog | School of Education

 

Courses


  • EDBL 312 - Foundations in Bilingual Education
  • EDBL 318 - Family, Community, and Culture in Education 
  • EDBL 430 - Sheltering Instruction for Linguistically Diverse Students 
  • EDBL 432 - Second Language Acquisition for Educators 
  • EDBL 433 - Educational Linguistics
  • EDBL 438 - Teaching English as a Second Language 
  • EDBL 439 - Assessment of Linguistically Diverse Students 
  • EDBL 440 - Development of Literacy with Linguistically Diverse Students 
  • EDBL 492 - Practicum 

Family, Community, and Culture

In EDBL 318, discover the vital role families, communities, and culture play in shaping student success. This course examines how diverse backgrounds influence educational experiences, with a special focus on engaging and supporting students from diverse populations.

In-Demand

English language learners comprise 23% of all K-12 learners in Washington State schools and represent 96 language groups. Not only is there a high demand for teaching English language learning educators in here, but a need for these skills across the US and abroad.

Experienced Educators

Expect to learn from knowledgeable and experienced faculty who focus on engagement and quality and positive learning environments. You’ll gain practical knowledge and instruction development as you interact with our faculty.

Program Flexibility

Choose the modality that suits your lifestyle best with this flexible program offering your choice of interactive online, in-person (Ellensburg), or hybrid learning options.

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Why Study Education at Central?


  • Learn from well-qualified teaching professionals through internships in the classroom and other hands-on experiences.   
  • Our small class sizes allow for more personalized attention from faculty, creating a collaborative and supportive learning environment. You’ll have easier access to professors and academic advisors, ensuring you get the guidance you need to succeed.  
  • Teacher education is in our DNA at CWU. It’s why Central was established more than a century ago and it remains one of our most important academic programs.  

Become a Certified Teacher


Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to specialize, Central Washington University provides the support and expertise to help you succeed. With hands-on learning, expert faculty, and pathways to certification and endorsements, CWU is your go-to resource for becoming a teacher. Ready to make an impact? 

Explore our Teacher Certification Program.