The Guam Department of Education held a professional development training Jan. 14 aimed at strengthening instructional support for English learners across the island.
The session, conducted by GDOE’s Division of Curriculum and Instruction at department headquarters in Tiyan, brought together noncertified English as a Second Language teachers and general classroom educators. A total of 33 elementary and secondary teachers participated, representing core subjects including math, science, language arts and social studies.
Training topics included second-language acquisition, instructional accommodations and modifications, effective classroom instruction, and curriculum design and lesson planning tailored for English learners.
Acting Superintendent Judith T. Won Pat met with ESL teachers and coordinators during the session and underscored their role in supporting Guam’s students. She emphasized the importance of culturally responsive and inclusive instructional practices in meeting students’ academic and linguistic needs.
According to GDOE, the training is part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen instructional capacity and provide educators with practical strategies for supporting English Language Learners. Participants said the session reinforced the value of building strong student relationships, creating safe learning environments and providing appropriate accommodations.
Teachers also expressed interest in incorporating student culture into instruction and embedding language objectives into daily lessons.
GDOE officials said the department remains committed to supporting educators as they work to meet the needs of English learners throughout Guam.
