Understanding where our students come from and who they are is so important to ensuring we are providing them with an environment where they feel welcome and respected. This may mean dismantling some assumptions we have about different countries and really trying to understand the countries they are coming from and the specific areas they are coming from. Margarita Pearce is joining us today to share her unique perspective and provide some insight and tips for ESL teachers.

In this episode, Margarita is sharing what it was like growing up in Panama and her experience working with the U.S. Embassy in Panama and the Fullbright Program. We are diving into ways teachers can ensure that newcomers feel comfortable in their new school, why you should consider the challenges their families face and find ways to support them in understanding the school system, and tips for how teachers can create an environment that fosters success.

Margarita Pearce was born and raised at the crossroads of the world, the Republic of Panama.  My education includes a Master in Business Administration and a Bachelors Degree in Biology both from universities in the U.S.A.  I also have TESOL certificate and I am completing my TEFL certification.  My teaching experience includes in-person and online ESL tutoring.  My background also includes counseling, student recruitment, and program management for universities in the U.S.A.

Related Resources:

• Grab a copy of “Home Is in Between” by Mitali Perkins
• Join the Equipping ELLs Membership
• Check out the ELL Strategy Academy
• Download the ESL Teacher Toolkit 
• Shop TpT resources that help with supporting your ELLs
• 
  

For all links and resources, check out the show notes: https://www.inspiringyounglearners.com/cultural-crash-course

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