Pennsylvania Department of Education statement

Approved Certification Programs: Midwestern Intermediate Unit IV

Approved for PK-12 Specialty Area Teachers: English as a Second Language Program Specialist

There are more than 61,000 English Learners (ELs) speaking more than 200 different languages in Pennsylvania. The education of students whose dominant language is not English and who are ELs is the responsibility of every Local Education Agency (LEA). Title 22, Chapter 4, Section 4.26 of the Curriculum Regulations requires the LEA to provide a program for every student who is an English learner (EL).

The goal of language instruction educational programs (LIEPs) is to facilitate the development and attainment of English proficiency and academic achievement of students whose native or first language is not English. Without instruction in social and academic English and appropriate support for learning academic content, these students are at risk of losing the educational opportunities provided to non-EL students. 

English as a Second Language (ESL) is a term for the use or study of the English language by non-native speakers in an English-speaking environment. 
PDE approves a program specialist certification in ESL through Midwestern Intermediate Unit 4 (enrollment active).

The requirements to obtain an ESL Program Specialist certification:

• Hold a PA Instructional I or Instructional II certificate

• Completion of a state-approved certification program

OR

• Hold a valid out-of-state ESL certificate

• Completion of a state-approved instructional ESL certification program that meets the Pennsylvania ESL Specific Program Guidelines.