Equipping ELLs

In this heart-centered episode of the Equipping ELLs podcast, Beth Vaucher dives into one of the most overlooked yet powerful strategies for supporting English Language Learners (ELLs): intentional connection. As the new school year begins, Beth emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where students feel seen, valued, and confident from the very first day. Instead of focusing solely on academic prep, she encourages educators to prioritize building authentic relationships that set the foundation for long-term success.Beth walks listeners through five proven strategies for establishing intentional connection, starting with the vital act of pronouncing students' names correctly, a simple but impactful gesture that validates identity. She discusses how to offer choice in sharing, acknowledging that newcomers may not be ready to open up about their backgrounds right away. Through flexible, low-pressure activities like “Would You Rather” games, teachers can gently encourage participation without overwhelming students.The episode also explores how to use culturally relevant materials, from books and visuals to classroom decor, to affirm students’ diverse identities. Beth shares how daily routines and rituals, like consistent greetings and check-ins, help build predictability and trust. Most importantly, she highlights the value of celebrating multilingualism through classroom labels, bilingual books, and encouraging students to share in their home language.Listeners will walk away with practical tools, including free resources like multilingual labels and access to an upcoming webinar on setting up routines. Beth also challenges teachers to think beyond their classrooms, how can they help their entire school become a welcoming place for ELLs? With thoughtful guidance and heartfelt encouragement, this episode is a must-listen for any educator seeking to build inclusive, responsive classrooms where all students can thrive.Subscribe to the Equipping ELLs podcast for more actionable tips, and don’t forget to connect on Instagram for exclusive free resources. Whether you're new to supporting ELLs or a veteran educator, this episode will inspire you to take one small but meaningful step toward creating a safe, engaging space for every learner.Sign Up for the FREE Webinar⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT Store

Welcome back to Equipping ELLs! In Episode 185, host Beth Vaucher delivers an empowering and practical message tailored to ESL and ELL educators navigating the often-overwhelming world of multilingual teaching. This episode, titled “How to Lead with Confidence in the Classroom,” tackles the ever-present feeling of imposter syndrome and the unrealistic expectation for ESL specialists to have all the answers.Beth kicks off the episode by acknowledging the emotional weight many educators carry, especially when stepping into leadership roles without feeling fully equipped. She reminds listeners that confidence is not about perfection—it’s about presence, purpose, and persistence.Listeners are guided through three actionable strategies that can be implemented right away to foster confident teaching:Build a "Confidence Go-To File" – A powerful tool filled with student notes, success stories, affirmations, and progress data to remind educators of their impact.Collaborate with Purpose – Beth breaks down how to form strong partnerships with homeroom teachers through mutual respect, curiosity, and clear communication—avoiding the “dumping ground” dynamic.Set Boundaries to Protect Energy – Prioritize one to two focus areas to grow expertise without burning out. Learn how to say “not right now” with confidence and clarity.This episode also highlights common challenges faced by ESL teachers such as unclear job expectations, lack of curriculum, and managing multiple grade levels. Beth offers mindset shifts and practical advice, including how to align with administrators and how to focus deeply on areas that make the biggest impact.Listeners will also learn about the Equipping ELLs Membership, which offers ready-to-use resources and trainings designed to ease lesson planning and improve student outcomes. Use code TAKE10OFF for 10% off tier three plans.This heartfelt episode will resonate with new and veteran ESL teachers alike who are looking to lead with confidence, not fear, and create lasting change for their multilingual learners. Don’t miss the bonus encouragement and invitation to the live webinar: From Overwhelmed to On Track.If you’ve ever questioned your readiness or role, this episode is a must-listen. Share it with a fellow educator, subscribe for weekly insights, and leave a review to help support the global community of passionate ELL teachers.Sign Up for the FREE Webinar⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT Store

In this inspiring episode of the Equipping ELLs podcast, host Beth Vaucher wraps up her empowering series on habits that support a healthy, balanced life... this time focusing on physical movement and fitness for educators. As a former athlete turned busy educator and parent, Beth shares a deeply personal yet practical approach to staying active, especially during the demanding school year.Whether you’re juggling lesson plans, family obligations, or end-of-day exhaustion, Beth reassures listeners that you don’t need a gym membership or hours of spare time to see real benefits. She emphasizes how small, consistent habits can boost energy, reduce stress, sharpen focus, and improve sleep, all crucial for educators striving to bring their best selves into the classroom.Beth dives into 10 simple, realistic fitness strategies that anyone can implement, from starting your day with a short stretch and incorporating “movement snacks” throughout the day, to using step goals and scheduling workouts like appointments. Each tip is rooted in her personal experience and supported by research on the mental and physical benefits of regular movement.She also highlights tools and resources that have worked for her, including online platforms like Nourish Move Love, and encourages listeners to explore what brings them joy, be it Zumba, yoga, strength training, or a daily walk. A key takeaway: consistency beats intensity when building lasting health habits.Throughout the episode, Beth offers relatable encouragement, actionable advice, and motivational challenges. She discusses how accountability partners, online fitness challenges, and even foam rolling during TV time can keep momentum going without feeling like a chore.Listeners are encouraged to celebrate small wins, track progress, and remember that every bit of movement counts. The episode closes with an uplifting reminder: it’s not about being perfect, it’s about progress and showing up for yourself.As the Equipping ELLs podcast gears up for a new season of back-to-school content, Beth invites her audience to reflect on their own summer wellness goals and prepare to return to the classroom refreshed, strong, and focused.Links and ResourcesAtomic Habits⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership (We have everything you need for the school year!)Shop our TpT Store

In this special summer wellness series, host Beth Vaucher explores how to apply simple, intentional habits to transform your health, starting with what you eat. If you're an educator, parent, or busy professional who often finds nutrition falling to the bottom of your priority list, this episode is a must-listen.Beth shares her personal journey from fast food and frozen dinners to a more mindful, nourishing lifestyle—and how it’s dramatically improved her family's energy, focus, and emotional well-being. Through practical insights and a non-judgmental tone, she walks you through 10 realistic habits that make healthy eating more consistent and less overwhelming.Discover how to streamline your week with effective meal planning tools like "Plan to Eat," the benefits of grocery pickups, and strategies for staying hydrated. Learn how to prep nutrient-rich breakfasts and snacks that kids will actually eat, batch-cook for stress-free dinners, and sneak in more veggies without complaints. Plus, Beth emphasizes the importance of mindset, focusing on what you can add to your diet, rather than what to restrict.She also shouts out her favorite recipe creators, including Lily Eats and Tells, Jar of Lemons, Cookie and Kate, Half Baked Harvest, and Ambitious Kitchen, offering go-to resources for anyone who wants healthy meals without the hassle.Whether you're looking to simplify your routine, boost your classroom stamina, or just feel better in your own skin, this episode is your friendly guide to start building better habits today. Don’t forget to tune in next week as Beth covers staying active and fit during the school year.✨ Hit subscribe, share with a fellow teacher, and let us know what healthy habits you're working on this summer. Let’s grow together!RESOURCESPlan to EatLillie Eats and TellsJar of LemonsCookie and KateHalf Baked Harvest⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership (We have everything you need for the school year!)Shop our TpT Store

In this powerful episode of the Equipping ELLs Podcast, host Beth Vaucher dives into the transformative role of mindset and how intentional daily habits can help educators feel more grounded, focused, and emotionally regulated—especially during the hectic school year. While it’s summer, Beth challenges listeners to leverage this calmer season to build small but impactful routines that stick.Beth opens up about her personal journey with mindset, sharing how integrating simple practices like daily gratitude, breathwork, and scheduled pauses has helped her feel more present and less overwhelmed. Drawing from her experience as a mom, teacher, and business owner, she offers relatable insights and concrete tips that are both practical and deeply meaningful.Tune in to learn about:The life-changing effects of starting a gratitude journal, inspired by the book 1,000 Gifts by Ann Voskamp.How breathwork, especially the "box breathing" technique, can reset your nervous system in under a minute.Why scheduled pauses during your teaching day are not a luxury but a necessity.How to design effective morning and evening routines without adding more stress to your day.The impact of setting tech boundaries and how even a 15-minute timer can reclaim hours of lost time and energy.Beth also discusses the importance of preparing now for the upcoming school year, emphasizing that routines formed during quieter seasons often serve as anchors during chaotic times. Whether it’s taking a deep breath during your planning period or resisting the scroll on Instagram at bedtime, these small habits create ripple effects that elevate your overall mindset and performance.This episode is a must-listen for any educator looking to show up more fully for their students, family, and themselves. It's not about perfection—it’s about progress. And with a few intentional tweaks, your mindset can become your greatest asset.Resources Mentioned:1,000 Gifts by Ann VoskampThe 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership (We have everything you need for the school year!)Shop our TpT Store✨ Next Week: Tune in for tips on building healthier eating habits and simple meal prep strategies for busy teachers!🔗 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow educator who could use a mindset refresh!

Are you heading into summer feeling burnt out and overwhelmed, wishing there was a way to reset before the next school year sneaks up on you?In this energizing kickoff to a new series on the Equipping ELLs Podcast, host Beth Vaucher dives into the transformational power of habits, routines, and rhythms—especially for educators navigating the unique pace of summer break. Titled “The Power of Starting Routines and Rhythms Now,” this episode invites teachers to use the summer as a launchpad for sustainable, life-giving changes that will carry into the school year.Beth shares candid reflections from her own journey, describing the chaos of her early teaching days and the profound difference simple habits have made in her life, family, and business. With four kids and a growing brand, she’s living proof that systems—not just goals, create lasting change. Inspired by James Clear’s Atomic Habits, Beth highlights how daily structure can reduce stress, improve sleep, and increase mental clarity.Listeners will learn why summer offers a golden window for habit formation, how to get started without overwhelm, and why consistency—even in the smallest things—pays the biggest dividends. From meal prepping on Sunday mornings to setting a mindful morning coffee routine, Beth gives practical examples anyone can implement right away.She challenges listeners to treat their commitments to themselves with the same respect they show to others and reminds us that these tiny adjustments influence not just our well-being, but also how we show up for our students, families, and colleagues.Whether you're a teacher looking to reset, a parent hoping to create calmer days, or a leader aiming to sharpen your systems, this episode offers actionable advice with heart. Plus, Beth previews what’s coming up in the series: episodes on mindset, fitness, and classroom-ready routines.Don’t miss her encouragement to join the Empowered Educator Facebook group, where listeners can access a fun summer bingo challenge and win giveaways to stay accountable. You’ll also hear some powerful quotes, book recommendations, and a sneak peek into how mindset ties everything together.So pour your coffee, take a breath, and press play—this episode is your permission slip to reset, rebuild, and refocus.Resources: ⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership (We have everything you need for the school year!)Shop our TpT Store

Struggling to foster effective collaboration in your ELL classroom? In this episode of Equipping ELLs, host Beth Vaucher sits down with renowned expert Dr. Andrea Honigsfeld to explore the transformative power of collaboration among teachers. Discover practical strategies for co-teaching, building professional learning communities, and differentiating instruction to meet the diverse needs of your English language learners. Tune in for actionable tips and inspiring insights that will help you create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for your ELL students.Resources: ⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership (We have everything you need for the school year!)Shop our TpT StoreFind more from Dr. Andrea HonigsfeldGet your copy of Growing Language & Literacy: Strategies for English LearnersGet your copy of Collaborating for English Learners: A Foundational Guide to Integrated Practices

In this powerful and practical episode of the Equipping ELLs Podcast, host Beth Vaucher welcomes Sarah Knigge, an independent consultant and co-author focused on bilingual literacy, to unpack the essential role native language plays in developing English literacy for Spanish-speaking students. With years of experience as a bilingual teacher and program leader, Sarah shares actionable strategies for educators navigating the complex dynamics of supporting multilingual learners.Beth and Sarah begin by discussing the benefits of leveraging a student’s home language in the classroom and how it can foster deeper family engagement, boost student confidence, and reinforce cultural identity. Sarah emphasizes the importance of intentional native language use and explains why simply translating materials isn’t always the best support strategy. Instead, she encourages educators to adopt sheltered instruction practices and structured scaffolding techniques that promote true language development.Listeners will learn about the key differences between Spanish and English literacy—such as phoneme systems, syllabic decoding, and metalinguistic awareness—and how recognizing these contrasts helps educators better support literacy transfer. Sarah highlights the role of cognates and contrastive analysis as bridges between the two languages, offering practical examples educators can apply immediately in their classrooms.The conversation also dives into misconceptions about bilingual education, including the unintended consequences of concurrent translation. Sarah candidly shares her early missteps and how those experiences shaped her commitment to effective bilingual instruction and eventually led her to co-author a literacy curriculum designed specifically for emergent Spanish readers.From enhancing vocabulary through oral language strategies like QSSSA to making writing accessible with sentence pattern charts and graphic organizers, this episode is filled with proven tools that help ELLs build confidence and fluency. Beth and Sarah also address the realities of time constraints in classrooms, offering ways teachers can support literacy without overwhelming students with redundant phonics drills.For educators looking to strengthen their instruction and advocacy for bilingual learners, Sarah’s insights offer a clear and compassionate roadmap. Whether you're in a dual-language setting, ESL classroom, or simply want to better support your Spanish-speaking students, this episode is a must-listen.Links and Resources:ReadInEspanol.comREAD en espanol, Inc. on Linked InPurchase the Primary Skills Book for Spanish ReadingConnect with Sarah on Linked InConnect with Sarah on InstagramConnect with Sarah on Facebook⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT Store

In this powerful episode of the Equipping ELLs podcast, host Beth Vaucher sits down with two leading voices in trauma-informed and restorative education, Marg Thorsborne and Joe Brummer, for a deeply transformative conversation on rethinking student behavior, discipline, and classroom culture. Marg, a global pioneer in restorative practices, and Joe, a trauma survivor turned international peacebuilder, bring decades of lived experience and professional wisdom to the table. Together, they co-authored Becoming a Trauma-Informed Restorative Educator, a vital guide for educators ready to move beyond punitive systems and foster true healing and connection in schools.This episode explores the critical differences between behaviorism and trauma-informed approaches, debunking the myth that all behavior is a choice. Joe explains how trauma shapes students' nervous systems, causing many to enter classrooms in survival mode rather than learning mode. Marg highlights the importance of adult self-regulation, reminding us that students need at least one regulated brain in the room — and that starts with the educator.The discussion also dives into the invisible signs of trauma and the necessity of cultivating empathy through self-awareness. Educators are encouraged to start their journey by working on their own wellness, nervous system regulation, and childhood conditioning, especially as many default to the discipline patterns they experienced as children.Listeners will learn why restorative practices aren’t a “soft” alternative but a structured, empathetic approach to accountability and healing. They’ll also hear the heartbreaking but eye-opening story of how misread facial expressions can trigger violence in culturally diverse classrooms — and how trauma-informed strategies could prevent such outcomes.Whether you're teaching newcomers from war-torn countries or students experiencing daily chaos at home, this episode offers grounded, research-backed strategies to help every educator foster a safe, inclusive, and emotionally available learning environment. With actionable advice and heartfelt insight, this episode is a must-listen for teachers, administrators, and school counselors.📘 Don’t miss the chance to dive deeper by reading Becoming a Trauma-Informed Restorative Educator — perfect for your summer professional development stack.Links and ResourcesBecoming a Trauma-Informed Restorative EducatorConnect with Marg:www.thorsborne.com.auX: @ThorsborneMargBluesky: Margie ThorsborneLinkedIn: Margaret ThorsborneFB: Margaret Thorsborne and AssociatesConnect with Joe:Joebrummerjoebrummer.com⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs MembershipShop our TpT Store

How can I effectively track and showcase the progress of multilingual learners across all language domains when traditional assessments often fail to capture their growth?In this episode of Equipping ELLs, host Beth Vaucher is joined by Kelly Aldinger, a bilingual learning and development expert with a passion for fostering educational equity for multilingual learners. Kelly shares her expertise on the power of digital portfolios in showcasing language development, particularly in helping multilingual students see their progress over time.A digital portfolio is more than just a collection of student work, it's a tool that brings together audio, video, and written samples to demonstrate real growth in all four language domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Kelly walks us through how teachers can use these portfolios to monitor language growth, identify skill gaps, and make data-driven decisions to inform instruction. She also shares insights into making the process more manageable for teachers and offers practical steps to get started with setting up digital portfolios in the classroom.This conversation highlights the value of using data to drive decision-making and how digital portfolios give both teachers and families a clearer picture of student achievement. Kelly provides actionable tips on how to integrate these portfolios into your practice, including the importance of student reflection and how to connect with families through accessible and meaningful tools. Whether you're a teacher looking to enhance your classroom or someone seeking to learn more about fostering student progress, this episode is packed with valuable information that can make a big impact.Key Topics Discussed:What digital portfolios are and how they differ from traditional student foldersThe benefits of using portfolios for tracking progress in all four language domainsPractical steps for setting up digital portfolios and using them effectively in the classroomHow to leverage student reflection for growth and goal-settingThe power of data in driving educational decisions for multilingual learnersListen to this episode and start planning how you can implement digital portfolios in your classroom to celebrate student growth and improve instructional strategies.Links and Resources:In this Google Drive Folder, you will find a copy of presentation slides, NYSESLAT Targets of Measurement, K-5 Digital Portfolio Reference Guide, Google Site Template**IMPORTANT** Right click on the file within the Google Drive folder --> "Make a copy" --> Be sure to store it outside of the shared folder in your OWN drive, otherwise it won't allow you to make the copy. A copy of the site will be created, and you can rename it and make changes as needed. ⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT StoreConnect with Kelly on Linked In