ABOUT US
Created in 2012, the mission of our non-profit ESL RURAL MURAL is to provide an online space where rural and suburban ENL LEADERS with a variety of expertise in ELL/MLL education come together voluntarily to promote a sense of camaraderie and belonging through a support system that shares ideas, collaborates and networks from a common understanding and respect they have for their ELL students, co-teachers and for each other. We have found that the ENL teachers are also commonly the leaders in their rural schools.
2026 is a transitional year as we change from the annual NYSESLAT to the WIDA ACCESS test for our ELLs. (From 5 to 6 levels of language proficiency. )
The first WIDA ACCESS test is scheuled from February 1 to April 9, 2027. The WIDA Screener replaces the NYSITELL in Fall 2027. (Required WIDA courses opened on September 9, 2026.)
SOME HELPFUL RESOURCES FOR SCHOOL LEADERS:
The Science of Reading and ELLs
What Do I Need to Know Now About WIDA Now?
Katie Leven
Our New ENL Toolkit ppt Answers to Common ENL Questions slideshow Timely ENL Newsletters
Back to School for ELLs What Does an ENL Teacher Do?
Beginner/Newcomer Resources A Few ENL Padlets
Multilingual Resources Chart Best Strategies for Teaching ELLs
Teaching Reading to ELLs Teaching Writing to ELLs
ELL Family Engagement SIFE/SLIFE Students
Language Difference or Disability
Vital ENL Contacts End of the Year Activities and
The Science of Reading & Our ENL Tips
Many thanks for your encouragement & support over the years. Feel free to use these materials in your schools.
