SDCOE Launches Initiative to Support English Learners

The San Diego County Office of Education recently launched an elementary-focused initiative to empower educators with the tools needed to strengthen and enhance academic experiences for students who are English learners. 

The FIELD Project, which stands for Foundations in Integrated English Language Development, is a new professional learning series designed developed within SDCOE's Multilingual Education and Global Achievement (MEGA) department.
 
The pilot of the FIELD Project began earlier this month with a focus on meeting English learners where they are.

“Too often, our English learner students only receive focused instruction when they are pulled out of the classroom,” said Norma Gómez-Michel, coordinator at SDCOE. “The goal of our project is to provide learning opportunities for English learners throughout the day and in all classes by equipping teachers to deliver integrated English language development (ELD) instruction.” 

By the end of this series, participants will be equipped with a robust set of resources, ensuring they can effectively deliver professional learning sessions that enhance teacher expertise in integrated ELD. The ultimate goal being creating culturally responsive classrooms that benefit not only English learners, but all students.

“Our FIELD Project content is grounded in SDCOE’s North Star goal of belongingness,” said Izela Jacobo, senior director of the MEGA department. “We are providing trainers with the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools needed to return to their schools or districts and facilitate the FIELD Project on their campuses to meet the needs of their students.” 

The FIELD Project also centers around three critical components English learners need to thrive:

• Access to content
• Language to participate
• Understanding how English works

 “It was so encouraging to hear the positive responses from the nearly 50 educators in the program,” said Dr. Rima Haroun, a coordinator with the MEGA department. “It highlights the importance and timeliness of this work."

A series for middle and high school teachers will be offered in early 2026. Secondary educators can register now.