Post Baccalaureate PDE Certification in English as a Second Language PreK 12
Credential
Certification: PA ESL Program Specialist Certification (PreK-12)
** To be recommended for certification, students must hold a Pennsylvania Instruction I or II (any area).
** Graduate students not holding a PA certification will not be eligible for PA ESL Program Specialist certification. If they desire to complete coursework without certification, they will need to complete an additional 3 credits in ELL, unless waived by the Program Coordinator.
Introduction
The English as a Second Language (certification only) seeks to train students from a philosophical basis which reflects a biblical worldview to serve as teachers of ESL in public and private schools. Students complete blended courses with online and face-to-face components as well as 60 hours of field placement in ESL. The field placement coordinator will aid students in locating appropriate field placements.
Students can complete the coursework in five semesters (fall, spring, and summer).
Locations offered: Online
Program Core Competencies
1 - The teacher candidate will demonstrate the ability to integrate knowledge of content, pedagogy, resources and learners to design coherent learning experiences that are aligned with outcomes and that reach all learners.
2 - The teacher candidate will demonstrate the ability to implement safe, equitable, learning-focused environments developed through appropriate rapport between student and teacher, responsiveness to the needs and cultures of all learners, and effective classroom management techniques in an organized physical environment.
3 - The teacher candidate will demonstrate effective instructional practices as characterized by
a) clear verbal, nonverbal, and media communication
b) reflective and responsive teaching using multiple instructional strategies
c) implementation of a variety of assessment measures
d) engagement of students in higher level thinking and learning,
4 - The teacher candidate will demonstrate professionalism by
a) adhering to ethical, institutional and legal guidelines
b) maintaining accurate records
c) seeking opportunities to grow professionally
d) reflecting on his/her own practice
e) collaborating with colleagues, parents, and the community
5 - The teacher candidate will integrate a biblical worldview. The teacher candidate will demonstrate a biblical worldview in his/her personal and professional life.
ESL Certification (K-12)
English as a Second Language, Certification Only, leads to a PA ESL Program Specialist Certification (PreK-12) and no degree.
21 credits
Course List
| ESL 500 | Culture and Communication | 3 |
| ESL 515 | Language and Literacy Development for the English Learner | 3 |
| ESL 517 | Language Foundations for Teachers | 3 |
| ESL 520 | Instruction and Assessment for the English Learner | 3 |
| ESL 610 | ESL Internship & Seminar | 3 |
| EDU 529 | Collaborative Team Approach | 3 |
Application, Admission, Retention, and Graduation
Admission Requirements
Admissions to English as a Second Language PreK-12 Certification only
1. Official transcript of a Bachelor’s degree in Education or its equivalent
2. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better as documented on an official transcript from the undergraduate accredited institution *
3. A valid Pennsylvania certificate at a minimum level of Instructional I in any area **
4. Recent (within 1 year of admissions) Child Abuse, Criminal Record, and Fingerprinting Clearances
5. Two references from individuals who can speak of the candidate’s abilities in the classroom
6. Completed MEd application form and submission of required application credentials
https://www.lbc.edu/capital/admissions/
7. Personal interview with the Program Director
Application Deadlines:
• August 1 for Fall Semester start
• December 1 for Spring semester start
• April 1 for summer semester start
*Graduate students with a GPA lower than 3.0 may be admitted to the program under provisional status with Program Coordinator approval. In provisional admittance status, the student must maintain a 3.0 in the first 12 credits of the program in order to be fully admitted into the program.
** Graduate students not holding a PA certification will not be eligible for PA ESL Program Specialist certification. If they desire to complete coursework without certification, they will need to complete an additional 3 credits in ELL, unless waived by the Program Coordinator.
Students wishing to take courses solely for personal enrichment or Act 48 credits are classified as nonmatriculating students. Permission for enrollment in courses is based on completion of the Nonmatriculating Application and the adequacy of class space. If at a later time the student wishes to be admitted into the program, that student will need to go through the formal application process. Granting credit for courses taken while a nonmatriculating student is not automatic. The Program Coordinator will evaluate course work and grant or not grant credit on an individual basis.
Upon review of application materials, prospective students will be contacted by the Program Coordinator regarding their admission.
Retention
Retention in English as a Second Language PreK-12 certification only
1. Minimum Cumulative GPA = 3.0
The criteria for retention are reviewed at the conclusion of each semester. Should the GPA fall below a 3.0 during the first three courses, the student is considered on probation for any certification. The student must meet with the advisor to determine a plan to raise the GPA to the minimum level. Student study groups and adjustment to schedules may help to restore the required grade levels. Further matriculation for the degree alone may also be in jeopardy.
If at the completion of the 4th course, the student has not raised the GPA, then the student will receive notice of academic dismissal. The student has the right to appeal through writing to the Registrar. The appeal will be considered by the appeals committee. If the appeal is denied, the student may appeal to the Provost.
Eligibility to enter Field Placement in ESL 520 Instruction & Assessment for the English Learner
1. Successful formal admission and retention in the ESL Program Specialist Certification
2. Minimum Cumulative GPA = 3.0
3. Renewed Child Abuse, Criminal Record, and Fingerprinting Clearances (within 6 months)
4. TB test (within 6 months)
5. Proof of Liability Insurance
6. Completion of all ESL 500, ESL 515, and ESL 517
7. In good standing with Lancaster Bible College
Exit Criteria - Eligibility to be Recommended for Certification
1. Completion of all program requirements and field placement requirements
2. Minimum Cumulative GPA = 3.0
3. Minimum of basic on evaluation form from supervisor and cooperating teacher
4. Submitted application to TIMS for PA teacher certification. See appendix.
5. The recommendation of the LBC Certification Officer
Program Completion
The program must be completed in a maximum of five years. If a student wishes to temporarily withdraw from a program, the student must notify the Program Director in writing. If a student needs an extension to continue the program after the five years, a written request must be submitted to the advisor and Program Director.
Academic Advising
Students will be assigned an advisor to monitor student progress and to provide encouragement through their studies. Advisors are available for in-person and email meetings. Students will receive and have access to the Handbook for policies and procedures. Additionally, the handbook contains advisement sheets. The Program Director will monitor student progress each semester and alert the student and advisor regarding any deficiencies to be addressed and criteria not being met. Prior to Field Placement, the Program Director will audit the student’s file to ensure completion of necessary requirements for graduation and certification.
Continuous Enrollment
Even though students are part-time, continuous enrollment is expected. It is understood that extenuating circumstances occur which may prevent a student from enrolling in a given semester. However, this should be viewed as the exception in order to complete the program. Should a student not enroll for six months, he/she will be placed on non-student status and will need to reapply.
Program Director
Dr. Robin Bronkema, PhD
Faculty
Certification Officer, Field Placement Coordinator
Robert Dodson, EdD
Resident Faculty
Angela Becker, EdD
Robin Bronkema, PhD
Stacey Martin, EdD
Adjunct Faculty
E. Penny Clawson, EdD
M. Raluca Snyder, EdD
Mrs. Diane Menga, MEd