TESOL submits comments to US Senate on WIA reauthorization bill
On June 17, 2011, TESOL provided comments on the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions discussion draft for the Workforce Investment Act of 1988. Last authorized in 1998, WIA funds the federal government's primary programs for preparing the nation's workforce. It supports programs for adults, dislocated workers, and low-income youth ages 14 to 21. In addition, WIA contains the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act, which is the primary federal funding vehicle for adult education and ESOL. Click here to read more about the discussion draft. Download a PDF of TESOL's comments.

TexTESOL III First Advocacy Day a Success

TexTESOL III’s first Advocacy Day, January 22, 2011, addressed the DREAM Act, Texas S.B. 1528, proposed state legislation affecting literacy/ESL/immigrants, and upcoming opportunities for involvement. The event concluded with a guided tour of the Texas State Capitol.

Holly Miranda, of American Gateways, provided a context for the discussion with an overview of immigration status. Her informative PowerPoint is available for viewing here.

Daniel Olvera, University Leadership Initiative, addressed the plight of “Dreamers” — those who were brought to the United States as undocumented children, have grown up here and now find their options limited by legal status. The DREAM Act, if passed, would allow certain young people a path to citizenship. Mr. Olvera walked us through the process and dispelled common myths. Learn more about the DREAM Act here.

Vangie Orozco, Immigrant College Coordinator at Austin ISD, explained S.B. 1528 and the opportunity for students to receive Texas financial aid regardless of legal status. Ms. Orozco provided the following valuable handouts: SB1528 Bilingual Flier, Applying to College Step by Step, Applying for Financial Aid, and University Leadership Initiative SB1528 Guide.

Meg Poag, Executive Director of the Literacy Coalition of Central Texas, shed light on the political realities affecting education and literacy in Texas. She also encouraged participation in Literacy Day at the Capitol, which will take place Thursday, February 24, 2011.

Advocacy 101 Quiz

1. How many U.S. Representatives does Texas have in Congress? Can you name yours?

2. What professional organizations advocate on behalf of ESL teachers and/or ESL students?

3. What is the DREAM Act? Do you know what the acronym DREAM stands for?

4. How many members does the Texas House of Representatives have? Can you name yours?

5. How many members does the Texas Senate have? Can you name yours?

6. What are the acronyms TWC, TEA, and THECB?

7. Can you name an organization in your community that advocates on behalf of and/or assists immigrants?

8. What is happening at the Capitol on January 22nd?

9. What is Literacy Day at the Capitol (February 3rd)?

For Answers:

E-mail Ronit Ricoy, using the subject line “Advocacy Quiz Answers.”

You will also receive information about TexTESOL III’s new advocacy committee, the January 22nd advocacy session and Capitol tour, and Literacy Day at the Capitol.

To learn more about your Congressional representatives and the legislative issues TESOL is tracking, go the TESOL U.S. Advocacy Action Center.