Back to School with a Language Lens

Over the past 25 years, I've partnered with thousands educators in classrooms, schools, and districts across the country and across the globe.

One question comes up again and again: How do we create learning experiences that are both rigorous and accessible for every student?

That's why I created Back to School with The Language Lens.

Over the next five days, we'll explore three practical shifts that can help us see learners differently, design for greater access, and notice learning in new ways.

I hope this experience leaves you feeling affirmed in what you already do, curious about what you might notice differently, and energized for the school year ahead. Welcome—I can't wait to get started.

—Sarah Ottow

Since I was a classroom teacher, then an ESL/bilingual teacher, then a district leader and coach, my work has always been about improving learning outcomes for all students, especially students on the margins.

Over the years, I've come to believe that some of the most meaningful improvements begin with small shifts in how we see learners, design learning experiences, and notice evidence of learning.

That's the thinking behind The Language Lens

—a practical framework for creating more equitable, rigorous, and engaging learning experiences for multilingual learners and ultimately, for all learners.

I hope these ideas encourage you, affirm the great work you're already doing, and inspire a few small shifts that make a meaningful difference for your students this year.

Please forward this page to anyone who may benefit! Sharing is caring, after all.