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LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T000558Z
UID:5243-1743069600-1743073200@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Best of Texas: Focus on ABE
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/best-of-texas-mar-2025/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Best of Texas,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Panel
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-BEST-Focus-on-ABE-1200-x-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T143000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150859
CREATED:20241218T110212Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T075825Z
UID:5077-1741266000-1741271400@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:The Expert Edge: Community Collaboration
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/expert-edge-mar-2025/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Other Events,The Expert Edge,Training
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-FORMS-Edge-Community-Collaboration-1200x300-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T151500
DTSTAMP:20260704T150859
CREATED:20250101T021351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250319T030816Z
UID:5093-1740729600-1740755700@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:East Texas Literacy Symposium
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/2025-symposium-east-tx/
LOCATION:Hilton Garden Inn\, Longview\, 905 East Hawkins Parkway\, Longview\, TX\, 75605\, United States
CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Symposium,Training
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-COVER-East-TX-2025-1200-x-300-px.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T110000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150859
CREATED:20241218T111634Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250228T051122Z
UID:5078-1740650400-1740654000@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Best of Texas: Literacy at the Library
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/best-of-texas-feb-2025/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Best of Texas,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Panel
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-BEST-Literacy-at-the-Library-1200-x-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250222T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250222T153000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150900
CREATED:20241024T074514Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T102134Z
UID:4992-1740211200-1740238200@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:South Texas Literacy Symposium
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/2025-symposium-south-tx/
CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Symposium,Training
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/7247472401-FESTIBA-STLS-Banner-1200x300-.png
ORGANIZER;CN="South Texas Literacy Coalition":MAILTO:http://www.southtexasliteracycoalition.org/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250218T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250218T103000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150900
CREATED:20240821T085214Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250219T053735Z
UID:4829-1739869200-1739874600@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:What Leaders Need: Nonprofit Finances
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/leaders-finances-2025/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Other Events,Training,What Leaders Need
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-FORMS-WLN-Finances-1200-×-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250130T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250130T121500
DTSTAMP:20260704T150900
CREATED:20241127T040738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250130T203708Z
UID:5037-1738225800-1738239300@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Best of Texas: Workforce Literacy
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/best-of-texas-jan-2025/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Best of Texas,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Panel
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-FORMS-BEST-Workforce-Literacy-1200-x-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250123
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250125
DTSTAMP:20260704T150901
CREATED:20241017T072932Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250128T032456Z
UID:4970-1737590400-1737763199@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Far West Literacy Symposium
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/2025-symposium-far-west/
CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Symposium,Training
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-COVER-Far-West-2025-1200-x-300-px.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250116T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250116T110000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150901
CREATED:20241023T102622Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250124T074127Z
UID:4988-1737021600-1737025200@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Coffee With Literacy Texas
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/coffee-jan-2025/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Group Chat,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/Coffee-with-LitTX-cover-image-02-1200-x-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241219T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241219T110000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150902
CREATED:20241017T061922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241220T194157Z
UID:4968-1734602400-1734606000@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Best of Texas: Language Learning
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/best-of-texas-dec-2024/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Best of Texas,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Panel
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-FORMS-BEST-Language-Learning-1200-x-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241205T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241205T103000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150902
CREATED:20240821T084922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241206T025812Z
UID:4828-1733389200-1733394600@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:What Leaders Need: Program Evaluation
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/leaders-evaluation-2024/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Other Events,Training,What Leaders Need
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-FORMS-WLN-Prog.-Eval.-1200-×-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241121T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241121T230000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150903
CREATED:20240926T042503Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241125T063458Z
UID:4921-1732183200-1732230000@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Best of Texas: Family Literacy
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/best-of-texas-nov-2024/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Best of Texas,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Panel
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-FORMS-BEST-Family-Literacy-1200-x-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241115T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241115T151500
DTSTAMP:20260704T150903
CREATED:20240920T031618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241125T063403Z
UID:4902-1731657600-1731683700@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:DFW Literacy Symposium
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/2024-symposium-dfw/
LOCATION:The Commons\, UTA\, 440 W Nedderman Dr.\, Arlington\, TX\, 76013\, United States
CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Symposium,Training
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-FORMS-DFW-Symposium-2024-25-1200-x-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241107T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241107T150000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150903
CREATED:20240731T084744Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241125T063349Z
UID:4585-1730986200-1730991600@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:The Expert Edge: Plain Language
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/expert-edge-nov-2024/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Other Events,The Expert Edge,Training
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/The-Expert-Edge-Plain-Language-1200x300-2.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241031T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241031T110000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150903
CREATED:20240925T082832Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241125T063255Z
UID:4917-1730368800-1730372400@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Best of Texas: Health Literacy
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/best-of-texas-oct-2024/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Best of Texas,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Panel
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-FORMS-BEST-Health-Literacy-1200-x-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241010T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241010T100000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150903
CREATED:20240924T032439Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241125T063202Z
UID:4908-1728550800-1728554400@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Coffee With Literacy Texas
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/coffee-oct-2024/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Group Chat,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/Coffee-with-LitTX-cover-image-02-1200-x-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240926T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240926T110000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150903
CREATED:20240912T084808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241125T062926Z
UID:4883-1727344800-1727348400@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Best of Texas: Outreach & Advocacy
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/best-of-texas-sep-2024/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Best of Texas,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Panel
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-FORMS-BEST-Outreach-Advocacy-1200-x-300-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240924T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240924T103000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150904
CREATED:20240821T084431Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240924T223204Z
UID:4827-1727168400-1727173800@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:What Leaders Need: Fundraising for Nonprofits
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/leaders-fundraising-2024/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Other Events,Training,What Leaders Need
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/WLN-Fundraising-Google-Forms-cover-1200-×-300-px-NO-LOGOS.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240919T133500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240919T163000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150904
CREATED:20240910T121108Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240913T012727Z
UID:4850-1726752900-1726763400@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Rangers Game - AEFL Week
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/rangers-game-aefl-week-2024/
LOCATION:Globe Life Field\, 734 Stadium Drive\, Arlington\, TX\, 76011\, United States
CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Other Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/Ranger-Promo-1200-x-300-px.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240812T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240812T150000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150904
CREATED:20240511T024222Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240806T101402Z
UID:4309-1723471200-1723474800@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Focus Group #2
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/2024-focus-group-2/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Focus Group,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/Focus-Groups-cover-image-01.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240808T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240808T103000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150904
CREATED:20240511T023748Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240806T101400Z
UID:4307-1723109400-1723113000@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Focus Group #1
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/2024-focus-group-1/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Focus Group,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/Focus-Groups-cover-image-01.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240729
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240801
DTSTAMP:20260704T150904
CREATED:20230519T012648Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240510T212239Z
UID:3631-1722211200-1722470399@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:2024 Literacy Texas Annual Conference
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/2024-conference/
LOCATION:Embassy Suites San Marcos\, 1001 E McCarty Lane\, San Marcos\, 78666\, United States
CATEGORIES:Annual Conference,Literacy Texas Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/CTS-cover-conference-2024.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240710T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240710T140000
DTSTAMP:20260704T150904
CREATED:20240511T015534Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240511T015656Z
UID:4305-1720616400-1720620000@www.literacytexas.org
SUMMARY:Coffee With Literacy Texas
DESCRIPTION:Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Thank you so much for your interest! This event is now over. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:				\n				\n				\n				\n									Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section\, or simply scroll down the page. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Basic details								\n				\n				\n				\n									About this month’s topic								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program\, Schedule\, & Sessions								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration								\n				\n				\n				\n									PD Certificates								\n				\n				\n				\n									Downloads								\n				\n				\n				\n									Special thanks								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					BASIC DETAILS				\n				\n				\n				\n									This special extended online session will be held on: 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Thursday\, April 24\, from 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (CT). 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Zoom room will open at 8:30 AM. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC				\n				\n				\n				\n									This session will focus on faith-affiliated adult literacy programs. This is such a high-interest topic that we have dedicated a morning to it\, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions. NOTE: This morning of learning will run along the same lines as the Faith-Affiliated Symposium did in the past – this session replaces that learning opportunity in the 2025 training calendar. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Many people are motivated by their faith to help their communities\, and for some\, that leads them to sit alongside other adults and help them improve their literacy. This online session will focus on some best practices for teachers and others who work within faith-affiliated literacy programs. Participants of all faiths\, and none\, are welcome at this event. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PROGRAM\, SCHEDULE\, & SESSIONS				\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									8:30 AM: ONLINE CHECK-IN OPENS 								\n				\n				\n				\n									8:45 AM: WELCOME 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Family Literacy – Getting Children Ready for SchoolKaren Morrow\, Retired Do you have an ESL program serving parents with preschool-age children who need help preparing for school? Ready for School! is a 20-week curriculum that equips parents with tools and resources to help their children develop key school readiness skills. Through weekly activities\, families receive books and materials to practice at home\, focusing on reading\, language\, motor skills\, and social development\, while fostering a love for learning in young children. Ready for School could be adapted to your ESL ministry to help parents prepare their children for school! 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Karen MorrowRetired 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Karen Morrow is a recently retired Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionary based in Fort Worth\, Texas\, dedicated to serving refugee communities. She has been working with refugees since 1996\, initially in Germany and later in the U.S. Karen is known for her compassionate outreach to refugee children\, particularly through her “Ready for School” program\, which helps prepare young children for school while engaging their parents in the learning process. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Tutoring & Conversation Partners – Best PracticesDr. Cynthia Kilpatrick\, Stephen F. Austin State University This session will provide best practices for leading a successful conversation partners program in a college or university setting\, as well as effective one-on-one tutoring strategies for ESL students. Participants will explore research-based methods to foster meaningful conversations\, support language development\, and build cross-cultural connections. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia KilpatrickDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningStephen F. Austin State University 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University\, where she leads initiatives to enhance faculty development and student learning. Previously\, she spent 15 years as a faculty member in the Department of Linguistics and TESOL at UT Arlington\, serving as Director of the English Language Institute and contributing to teaching excellence initiatives. With extensive experience in ESL education\, she has taught in Guatemala\, Papua New Guinea\, and various U.S. cities\, and has been a TEX trainer with Literacy ConneXus since 2015. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									10:05 AM – 11:05 AM: Session 2 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Overview of Teaching English ConneXus (TECs)Matthew Johnston\, Literacy ConneXus “Teaching English ConneXus”\, or TECs\, is a hybrid online and in-person training program designed for new ESL teachers in faith-based programs. This session will give participants a “taste” of the training\, including excellent hands-on activities which will help you engage your ESL students. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Matthew JohnstonESL Support Coordinator and TECs TrainerLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Matthew Johnston is an experienced instructional specialist and ESL educator based in Dallas\, Texas. Currently\, he serves as an ESL and Outreach Catalyst with Forefront Experience\, an ESL teacher at the Northwest Community Center in Dallas\, and an ESL Support Coordinator and TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus. Matthew has a strong background in curriculum development\, teaching diverse students\, and fostering cross-cultural learning. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Best Practices: Directing Faith-Affiliated ESL Programs with Strong Community PartnershipsKathleen Yarborough\, CityRise Church This session will explore effective strategies for leading faith-affiliated ESL programs and building strong community partnerships. Participants will learn best practices for program organization\, volunteer recruitment and training\, curriculum selection\, and creating a welcoming\, excellent learning environment. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Kathleen YarboroughDirector of Community MinistriesCityRise Church 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Kathleen Yarborough is the Director of Community Ministries at CityRise Church in Houston\, Texas\, where she leads outreach initiatives\, including free ESL classes and partnerships that provide food and medical assistance to those in need. An experienced ESL teacher\, she has dedicated years to serving English learners and equipping volunteers to teach and serve effectively. She is also a TECs trainer with Literacy ConneXus\, helping faith-based programs develop strong ESL ministries. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									11:10 AM – 12:10 PM: Session 3 (60 min) 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Immigration Update: Current Policies and How They Affect Communities of FaithJesús Romero\, Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) This session offers critical updates on immigration laws and policies. Learn how recent changes impact immigrant students and their families\, and gain practical tools to support your learners in navigating these challenges. This session will equip you to enhance your ESL programs with the knowledge\, resources\, or referrals needed to better serve immigrant families in your care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jesús RomeroDirector of the Center for Teaching and LearningEducational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM) 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jesús Romero is the director of Educational and Legal Immigration Ministries (ELIM)\, a ministry of Fellowship Southwest designed to support immigrants and refugees through education\, legal assistance\, and advocacy. With a passion for both social justice and ministry\, Romero leads efforts to equip churches and community leaders with tools to navigate complex immigration laws. His work emphasizes the importance of offering compassionate care to immigrant families and advocating for their rights. Under his leadership\, ELIM has provided valuable resources\, such as training programs for immigration legal representation\, and continues to build partnerships to support immigrants in their pursuit of justice and stability in the U.S. 								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									12:15 PM: FAREWELL 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Program will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Hosts:								\n				\n					\n				\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack WalkerExecutive DirectorLiteracy Texas 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration\, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School.  She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024\, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n						\n					\n			\n						\n				\n																														\n				\n				\n				\n									Lester MeriwetherExecutive DirectorLiteracy ConneXus 								\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n									Lester Meriwether has been the Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus since May 2004. Literacy ConneXus is a not-for-profit organization that helps faith-affiliated organizations help people with literacy needs in Texas and beyond. In this capacity\, Meriwether represents and advocates for hundreds of volunteers who each week teach English and basic literacy or conspire to provide beginning home libraries for families with no books. He works with talented volunteers across Texas who serve in a variety of ways to help churches help people with literacy needs. Lester and his wife Donna have three children and five grandchildren and live in Fort Worth.								\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									click here to register now\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive\, please check your junk mail! 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					PD CERTIFICATES				\n				\n				\n				\n									Someone who completes the full session will receive 3 hours of PD credit. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					DOWNLOADS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending. 								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the flyer\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									Download or print a program overview showing times and sessions. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									Click here to get the program overview\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					SPECIAL THANKS				\n				\n				\n				\n									Literacy ConneXus 								\n				\n				\n				\n									The Texas Workforce Commission 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n							\n					\n				\n					\n				\n				\n							\n			\n						\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n					STAY IN THE KNOW - 				\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									go to the literacy texas calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									see the national literacy calendar\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n									\n					\n						\n									sign up for mailings\n					\n					\n				\n								\n				\n				\n				\n							\n			\n		\n						\n				\n				\n				\n									Or get news directly from Literacy Texas: 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n																\n															\n															\n				\n				\n				\n				\n						\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Checked/updated 4/24/25
URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/coffee-july-2024/
LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom
CATEGORIES:Group Chat,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/Coffee-with-LitTX-cover-image-01.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org
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END:VCALENDAR