The ESP Professional Growth Continuum, published by NEA, identifies Ethics as one of the eight Universal Standards that describe what education support professionals should know and be able to do. If you haven't spent a lot of time exploring the ethics standard, that is OK! This course, which contains seven lessons, will help you gain a solid understanding of ethics at work.   The ESP Professional Growth Continuum outlines skills and knowledge related to ethics (and all of the eight Universal Standards) at three levels of practice. Those are: Foundational (I know this) Proficient (I do this consistently) Advanced/Mastery (I lead this) This self-paced, independent study course can be explored on your own, or with colleagues. It has been developed by NEA members and staff specifically for ESPs, and features the perspectives of education support professionals just like you. Read more

Culturally Relevant Pedagogy for MLs Class Runs: September 15 – October 20, 2026 Virtual Class Meetings: 9/15, 9/29, 10/20 (Time: TBA) Course Overview Culturally Relevant Pedagogy for Multilingual Learners (Facilitated)   To effectively support students from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, educators must understand the role of culture in teaching and learning.  This course explores culturally relevant pedagogy and how educators can leverage students' cultural knowledge, experiences, and backgrounds to create more meaningful, engaging, and effective learning experiences that promote academic success for multilingual learners. Course Outcomes: Define culture and identify its key characteristics. Build strong relationships with multilingual learners and their families. Understand culturally relevant practices and implement them in the classroom. Design scaffolded lessons that support multilingual learners' academic growth. Recognize and address the social-emotional experiences of multilingual learners.   Why This Course Matters: With more than half of U.S. educators teaching multilingual learners, this course provides practical strategies for creating inclusive, culturally responsive classrooms where all students can thrive. NEA Online Blended Learning – Course Timeline   Date  Assignments  PD Hours  Due Date  √  SEP 15  Virtual Meeting #1 – Course Launch Workshop    1.5 hours  SEP 15    SEP 16 Independent online work    4.5 hours  SEP 28   SEP 29  Virtual Meeting #2 – Learn Workshop    1.5 hours  SEP 29    SEP 30  Independent online work    3 hours  OCT 19    OCT 20  Virtual Meeting #3 – Reflect Workshop  1.5 hours  OCT 20      TOTAL  15 hours – PD Certificate  Upon Course Completion   * Disclaimer: NEA Blended Learning course participants are encouraged to review the laws and procedures particular to their home state or country regarding accepting NEA 15 contact hours for professional credit.    Read more

Teaching Multilingual Learners 101 Class Runs: September 14 – October 19, 2026 Virtual Class Meetings: 9/14, 9/28, 10/19 (Time: TBA)   Course Overview Supporting Multilingual Learners 101 (Facilitated)   This course introduces educators to the unique learning needs and challenges surrounding Newcomer and Multilingual Learners (MLs). Today, more than 55% of teachers in the United States have at least one ML in the classroom, making it critical for all educators to become familiar with the key roles that parent and community involvement, legal protections and policies, advocacy, and community organizing play in supporting these students in learning core academic content.   Course Objectives  Demonstrate awareness of the school/classroom climate necessary to support and teach Newcomer and ML students.  Understand the socio-cultural considerations for creating an equitable educational environment for MLs.  Identify the relevant state and federal laws and regulations that pertain to MLs and their education.  Describe ML cultural considerations and culturally and linguistically responsive teaching.  Demonstrate an understanding of the uniqueness of different ML populations and the considerations for their teaching and learning.    Why This Course Matters: As the number of multilingual learners in U.S. classrooms continues to grow, all educators need the knowledge and skills to create inclusive, equitable learning environments that support language development, academic success, and meaningful engagement with students and families.   NEA Online Blended Learning – Course Timeline   Date  Assignments  PD Hours  Due Date  √  SEP 14  Virtual Meeting #1 – Course Launch Workshop    1.5 hours  SEP 14    SEP 15  Independent online work    4.5 hours  SEP 27    SEP 28  Virtual Meeting #2 – Learn Workshop    1.5 hours  SEP 28    SEP 29  Independent online work    3 hours  OCT 18    OCT 19  Virtual Meeting #3 – Reflect Workshop  1.5 hours  OCT 19      TOTAL  15 hours – PD Certificate  Upon Course Completion   * Disclaimer: NEA Blended Learning course participants are encouraged to review the laws and procedures particular to their home state or country regarding accepting NEA 15 contact hours for professional credit.  Read more

This course explores how educators can effectively leverage AI to enhance their professional practice, from classroom instruction to administrative tasks. Participants will build AI literacy, navigate ethical considerations, and apply practical strategies for integrating AI tools into their work. By the end of the course, educators will be equipped to use AI responsibly and advocate for its equitable and practical implementation in their educational settings. Read more

This course explores race-based trauma—its causes, its effects, and its profound impact on students’ well-being and learning. Educators will examine how racism, discrimination, and systemic inequities contribute to racialized stress and trauma, and how these experiences shape students’ physical, emotional, and academic outcomes. Through research-based strategies and reflective practice, participants will learn how to recognize race-based trauma, respond with culturally affirming support, and create healing-centered environments where all students feel seen, valued, and safe. Read more

Advocating for Multilingual Learners Class Runs: September 17 – October 22, 2026 Virtual Class Meetings: 9/17, 10/01, 10/22 (Time: TBA) Course Overview Advocating for Multilingual Learners (Facilitated)   An advocacy mindset begins with the belief that multilingual learners (MLs) can achieve at high levels when provided with equitable opportunities, appropriate support, and access to high-quality instruction. Effective advocates recognize that supporting MLs is a shared responsibility and that educators play a critical role in ensuring their academic success and well-being. In this course, participants will explore the unique strengths, needs, and experiences of multilingual learners and their families. Educators will develop the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to advocate for policies, practices, and learning environments that promote equity and achievement for MLs. Course Outcomes: Understand the unique educational experiences and needs of multilingual learners and their families. Explore key principles and strategies for effective advocacy on behalf of MLs. Identify barriers that may impact MLs' access to equitable learning opportunities. Develop an advocacy action plan to support multilingual learners within your school or district. Establish professional goals for promoting equity, inclusion, and success for multilingual learners.   Why This Course Matters: With multilingual learners representing a growing population in schools across the country, educators must be prepared to advocate for the resources, supports, and opportunities that help every student thrive. NEA Online Blended Learning – Course Timeline   Date  Assignments  PD Hours  Due Date  √  SEP 17 Virtual Meeting #1 – Course Launch Workshop    1.5 hours  SEP 17    SEP 18 Independent online work    4.5 hours  SEP 30   OCT 01 Virtual Meeting #2 – Learn Workshop    1.5 hours  OCT 01    OCT 02  Independent online work    3 hours  OCT 21    OCT 22  Virtual Meeting #3 – Reflect Workshop  1.5 hours  OCT 22     TOTAL  15 hours – PD Certificate  Upon Course Completion   * Disclaimer: NEA Blended Learning course participants are encouraged to review the laws and procedures particular to their home state or country regarding accepting NEA 15 contact hours for professional credit.    Read more