Multilingual Learners in Montessori Classrooms helps Montessori teachers create inclusive learning environments where multilingual learners thrive.
“I enjoyed everything about the course…
I truly believe I will be a better teacher this year for my multilingual learners..”
Most schools and many classrooms serve multilingual learners, presenting opportunities and challenges to teachers who may not have much experience or training to support them. This course will empower participants with practical insights and evidence-based practices to create inclusive learning environments where multilingual learners thrive.
Participants will:
- Learn how to benefit from having many languages in your classroom.
- Understand the challenges faced by multilingual learners and their families.
- Learn how to integrate students’ backgrounds and experiences to promote connection and engagement.
- Learn effective approaches for supporting language acquisition and literacy development, such as scaffolded learning and differentiated instruction.
- Develop strategies for collaboration and partnership among educators, families, and communities to support holistic development.
- Share experiences, insights, and tested practices.
- Understand the many challenges multilingual learners face and how to support their having robust educational opportunities.
For a preview of this course content, check out our free webinar on Empowering Multilingual Learners!
Format
- five 90-minute live sessions
- Mondays and Wednesdays from 12-1:30pm ET (no live session July 21st)
- four hours of readings, videos, and written reflections
Calendar
| Date | Topic | Content |
| July 7 | Understanding Second Language Acquisition | Language Acquisition Stages of Second Language Acquisition The Learning Process |
| July 9 | Imperatives for Effective Instruction for Multilingual Learners – Part 1 | “Breaking the Monolingual Wall”Culturally and Linguistically Sustaining Teaching Practices |
| July 14 | Imperatives for Effective Instruction for Multilingual Learners – Part 2 | Family and Community Partnerships Chronic Stress, Trauma, and the Brain |
| July 16 | Oral Language Exploration and Development | TheoryExamining Montessori materials/lessonsCreating lesson extensions and accommodations at all levels (nido, primary, elementary, adolescents) |
| July 23 | Literacy Exploration and Development | TheoryExamining Montessori materials/lessonsCreating lesson extensions and accommodations at all levels (nido, primary, elementary, adolescents) |
Testimonials:
“I enjoyed everything about the course…I truly believe I will be a better teacher this year for my multilingual learners..”
“This was a beautifully organized, deeply thoughtful well designed course. The instructor was highly knowledgeable and brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the cohort.”
“I liked the practical activities and ideas we could use in the classroom directly….I am excited to try this this year in my classroom and share it with my colleagues.”
Attendance and certificates: Certificates of attendance are available for participants who attend 80% or more of live sessions. Participants who successfully complete the course are eligible to request Continuing Education Units (CEUs) from Lander University for an additional fee of $25.
Live session recordings: When available, recordings of live sessions are accessible to participants for six months after the date of the session.
Financial aid: Financial support for professional learning courses is sometimes available. Priority is given to NCMPS individual members serving in public schools. Apply for financial aid using this form.
Paying by check: We accept payment via most credit cards. To request to pay by check, use this form. You will not be registered until your check has been received. We confirm payment and registration via email. Questions about payment? Contact payments@public-montessori.org.
Photos and video: NCMPS may take photos or record video during this course. By participating in this event, you consent to your likeness being used for promotional purposes without compensation, and you release NCMPS from any liability related to this use. If you do not want your likeness used in this way, you may inform the course staff, and NCMPS will make its best effort to prevent such use.
Can’t make this course? Bring this course to you! Please email pd@public-montessori.org for information about hosting this course as a face-to-face or virtual workshop at your school.
About the Instructor:
Dr. Jasmine Williams is a dedicated educator, researcher, and leader in the Montessori community, with a focus on advancing equity and justice. Her work centers on the intersection of Montessori education, racial equity, and social justice. As a member of the National Center for Montessori in the Public Sector (NCMPS) team, Dr. Williams has facilitated webinars, developed professional learning courses, and conducted research to support Montessori educators in cultivating inclusive and equitable learning environments.
Dr. Williams serves on the boards of the Montessori Elementary Teacher Training Collaborative (METTC), Breakthrough Montessori, and the Keres Children’s Learning Center. She holds a doctoral degree in Education for Social Justice from the University of San Diego and a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) in Education Entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania.
A seasoned traveler who has explored 49 countries, Dr. Williams brings a nuanced understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives to her work. With her unique blend of experience, expertise, and passion for education, Dr. Williams is committed to advancing the Montessori method and supporting educators in their pursuit of equity, justice, and excellence.

