BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Literacy Texas - ECPv6.18.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.literacytexas.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Literacy Texas REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20270314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20271107T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20280312T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20281105T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260825 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260826 DTSTAMP:20260902T220343Z CREATED:20260609T082926Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260902T220343Z UID:6589-1787616000-1787702399@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:The Expert Edge: Cross-Curricular Learning DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/expert-edge-aug-2026/ 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/Edge-Cross-Curricular-Learning-GOOGLE-1200x300-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260910T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260910T140000 DTSTAMP:20260910T194737Z CREATED:20260805T225816Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T194737Z UID:8984-1789045200-1789048800@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:Best of Texas: Mental Health Literacy DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/best-of-texas-sep-2026/ LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom CATEGORIES:Best of Texas,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-BEST-Mental-Health-Literacy-1200-x-300-px.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260921T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260921T140000 DTSTAMP:20260923T012020Z CREATED:20260824T185410Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T012020Z UID:9250-1789995600-1789999200@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:2026 Focus Group - Program Administrators DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/2026-focus-group-program-administrators/ LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom CATEGORIES:Focus Group,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-DATELESS-Focus-Groups-1200-x-300-px.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260924T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260924T153000 DTSTAMP:20260924T215248Z CREATED:20260731T041033Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260924T215248Z UID:8810-1790236800-1790263800@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:2026 East Texas Literacy Symposium DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/symposium-east-texas-sep-2026/ LOCATION:Maude Cobb Convention Center\, 100 Grand Blvd\, Longview\, TX\, 75604\, United States CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Symposium,Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-EAST-TX-Symposium-DATELESS.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260930T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260930T153000 DTSTAMP:20260930T225727Z CREATED:20260805T195612Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260930T225727Z UID:8968-1790776800-1790782200@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:The Expert Edge: Introduction to Plain Language DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/expert-edge-sep-2026/ LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,The Expert Edge,Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/EE-GOOGLE-Plain-Language-1200x300-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261006T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261006T110000 DTSTAMP:20260909T133909Z CREATED:20260824T190320Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260909T133909Z UID:9259-1791280800-1791284400@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:2026 Focus Group - Classroom Instructors DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/2026-focus-group-instructors/ LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom CATEGORIES:Focus Group,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-DATELESS-Focus-Groups-1200-x-300-px.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261008T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261008T140000 DTSTAMP:20261014T215206Z CREATED:20260924T113816Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T215206Z UID:9725-1791464400-1791468000@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:Best of Texas: Work Partnerships in the Community DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/best-of-texas-oct-2026/ LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom CATEGORIES:Best of Texas,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-BEST-Work-Partnerships-in-the-Community-1200-x-300-px.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261016T081500 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261016T153000 DTSTAMP:20261019T075725Z CREATED:20260806T170642Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261019T075725Z UID:9025-1792138500-1792164600@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:2026 DFW Literacy Symposium DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/symposium-dfw-oct-2026/ LOCATION:Tarrant County College – Southeast Campus\, 2100 Southeast Pkwy\, Arlington\, TX\, 76018\, United States CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Symposium,Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-DFW-Symposium-DATELESS-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261020T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261020T103000 DTSTAMP:20261014T214843Z CREATED:20260806T164832Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T214843Z UID:9013-1792486800-1792492200@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:What Leaders Need: Team-Building & Staff Development DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/leaders-oct-2026/ LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Online Event,Training,What Leaders Need ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-WLN-Staff-Development-1200-×-300-px.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261106T081500 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261106T153000 DTSTAMP:20261020T104135Z CREATED:20260925T041053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261020T104135Z UID:9759-1793952900-1793979000@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:2026 South Texas Literacy Symposium DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/symposium-south-texas-nov-2026/ LOCATION:DoubleTree McAllen\, 1800 S 2nd St\, McAllen\, TX\, 78503\, United States CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Symposium,Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-SOUTH-TX-DATELESS-1200x300-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T140000 DTSTAMP:20261020T094104Z CREATED:20260806T160015Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261020T094104Z UID:8998-1794488400-1794492000@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:Best of Texas: Language\, Literacy\, and Learning Disabilities DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/best-of-texas-nov-2026/ LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom CATEGORIES:Best of Texas,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-BEST-Language.-1200-x-300-px.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261117T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261117T143000 DTSTAMP:20261020T030141Z CREATED:20260930T233136Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261020T030141Z UID:9936-1794922200-1794925800@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:LitTX Group Chat - November 2026 DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/group-chat-nov-2026/ LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom CATEGORIES:Group Chat,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-Group-Chat-1200-x-300-px.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261203T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261203T113000 DTSTAMP:20261020T152940Z CREATED:20261015T072151Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261020T152940Z UID:10204-1796292000-1796297400@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:The Expert Edge: Multilevel Classrooms Made Easy DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/expert-edge-dec-2026/ 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-Edge-Multilevel-Classrooms-1200x300-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261210T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261210T140000 DTSTAMP:20261020T152835Z CREATED:20261015T075257Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261020T152835Z UID:10216-1796907600-1796911200@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:Best of Texas: Young Adult Learners DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/best-of-texas-dec-2026/ LOCATION:Online Event – Zoom CATEGORIES:Best of Texas,Literacy Texas Events,Online Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/GOOGLE-BEST-Young-Adult-Learners-1200-x-300-px.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20270121 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20270123 DTSTAMP:20261014T214541Z CREATED:20261002T054107Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T214541Z UID:9959-1800489600-1800662399@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:2027 Far West Literacy Symposium DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/symposium-far-west-jan-2027/ CATEGORIES:Literacy Texas Events,Symposium,Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/FAR-WEST-Regional-Literacy-Symposium-LOGO-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20270727 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20270729 DTSTAMP:20260817T013406Z CREATED:20260817T012508Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T013406Z UID:9114-1816646400-1816819199@www.literacytexas.org SUMMARY:2027 Literacy Texas Annual Conference DESCRIPTION:Funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, regional symposia provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit\, community-based organizations. Your local symposium is an excellent place to learn and network with other literacy providers in your region\, and a great source of professional development for volunteer instructors. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n QUICK LINKS FOR THE FAR WEST SYMPOSIUM: \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 about this symposium \n \n \n \n Location\, map\, and directions \n \n \n \n Online registration \n \n \n \n PD certificates \n \n \n \n Symposium FAQs \n \n \n \n Program\, sessions\, and speakers \n \n \n \n Exhibitors at this symposium \n \n \n \n Flyer and other printable documents \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 \n BASIC DETAILS \n \n \n \n The 2025 Far West Literacy Symposium is co-presented by  the Ysleta Community Learning Center and El Paso Public Libraries in partnership with Literacy Texas.  \n \n \n \n The symposium has the theme “Transforming lives through literacy” and will be held on: \n \n \n \n Thursday\, January 23 & Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Check-in for registered participants will open at 7:30 AM (MT) on both days.  \n \n \n \n This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information. \n \n \n \n The symposium provides up to 11.75 hours of professional development. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOCATION \n \n \n \n This symposium will be held at Ysleta Community Learning Center\, 121 Padres Dr\, El Paso\, TX\, 79907. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for map\, directions\, and parking information\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION \n \n \n \n This session has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations \n \n \n \n Online registration has now closed – but we may have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 for more info. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n click here to register now\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 – and make sure you had no typos in your email address when registering. \n \n \n \n \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 a session in each timeslot over both days of the symposium will receive 11.75 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 SYMPOSIUM FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click on a question to see the answer. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer. Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference. Each symposium: Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travelHas a local focusIs free to attendGenerally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administratorsIs the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteersOffers 2.5 – 5.5 hours of professional development\, sometimes more \n \n \n \n Read more about the symposia here. Read more about the annual conference here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Who should attend this symposium? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits. Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome! When we create the symposium program\, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”\, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education\, English as an additional language\, high school equivalency\, digital literacy\, and workforce readiness\, along with other kinds of teaching and learning. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: I don't live in this region. Can I still attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Why should I attend? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n Two words: LOCAL + FREE! Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs\, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year\, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed. Furthermore\, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel\, and you shouldn’t need an overnight stay. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences\, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: How much does registration cost? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission\, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition\, any meals and snacks offered\, materials\, and other resources.  Please be aware that in recent years\, between 10% and 25% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food\, materials\, and more). If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend\, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q: Do you offer PD credit? \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL. You must use the Literacy Texas app to scan in to all sessions if you want an official record of your professional development. We will send records via email to all app users in the weeks following the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, SESSIONS & SPEAKERS \n \n \n \n See the schedule outline below; detailed descriptions of the workshops will be linked here when confirmed. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 1: Thursday\, January 23\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Adult Education: The New FrontierMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM \n \n \n \n Session 1 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso PromiseAmbar Martinez\, El Paso County Jail AnnexDominique Olivares\, El Paso County Jail Annex \n \n \n \n Using GED-Ready Data to Inform InstructionJonna McDonough Forsyth\, GED Testing Service \n \n \n \n UpWardly GlobalJoanne Michaud\, UpWardly GlobalAugustine Eagan\, UpWardly Global \n \n \n \n Junior Achievement of El PasoLupe Mares\, Junior Achievement of El Paso \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:25 AM – 11:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 2 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLsLaura Jacob\, Ellii \n \n \n \n Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult LearningIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future ForecastMahalia Baldini\, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated in session 3 \n \n \n \n Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical ApplicationsVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career PathwaysJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM \n \n \n \n Session 3 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL ClassroomRuth Villa\, Workforce Solutions Borderplex \n \n \n \n Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the ClassroomRocio M. Bickei\, Emergence Health \n \n \n \n What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?Dr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content\, Language\, and Literacy*Mike Saenz\, ESC19*Repeated from session 2 \n \n \n \n Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.Hallelujah! BBQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2:40 PM – 3:55 PM \n \n \n \n Session 4 (75 min) \n \n \n \n From Resume Writing to Customized Mock InterviewsJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n GED to College: TSIA2Rose Galindo\, El Paso Community CollegeAntonia Granillo\, El Paso Community College \n \n \n \n Utilizing Authentic Resources with English LearnersClaudia Jimenez\, Office of New AmericansLorey Gonzalez Flores\, Office of New Americans \n \n \n \n Project Vida: Economic Development CommunityPaloma Medina\, Project Vida \n \n \n \n Students as Authors and Agents of ChangeYsleta Community Learning Center Student Authors \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1 \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 1 will qualify for 6.5 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [Title of session] – ([room or other location])[Name of presenter]\, [organization] \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule Day 2: Friday\, January 24\, 2025 \n \n \n \n Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates \n \n \n \n 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN\, BREAKFAST \n \n \n \n 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 8:25 AM – 9:40 AM \n \n \n \n Session 5 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Promoting Nurturing Languages in the ClassroomKayla Orona\, Methodist Children’s Home \n \n \n \n Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our LivesKalina Gallardo\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers SucceedHeidi Nava\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterEmma Rivero\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterElva Villalobos\, Ysleta Community Learning CenterMaryLou Boisselier\, Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL ClassJezebel Mathie\, USCISRosario Rodriguez\, USCIS \n \n \n \n Empowering Literacy Programs With AIIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 9:50 AM – 10:40 AM \n \n \n \n SPECIAL SESSION (50 min) \n \n \n \n Networking and community collaboration; details pending. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 10:50 AM – 12:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 6 (75 min) \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity YouthCenter Future Youth Fellow Team:Alexa HarrisonDaniel InostrozaKalina GallardoIndy Gonzalez \n \n \n \n Building a Culture of Shared PowerDr. Jenny McCormack Walker\, Literacy Texas \n \n \n \n Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute WorkshopIrene Ramos\, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL) \n \n \n \n A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your LearnersMartin Loa\, Burlington English \n \n \n \n Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace IndustryRacheal Haggerty\, UTEP Aerospace \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH + KEYNOTE \n \n \n \n Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy BlueprintJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office of Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 1:50 PM – 3:05 PM \n \n \n \n Session 7 (75 min) \n \n \n \n Roundtable Discussion – by InvitationJacqueline Aguilera\, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy\, Houston \n \n \n \n Career Online High SchoolJacqueline Armijo\, El Paso Public LibrarySophia Apodaca\, El Paso Public Library \n \n \n \n Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner ProgramsChristine Wells\, Engen – New Readers Press \n \n \n \n How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare ProviderDr. Heather McKnight\, College of Nursing\, Health\, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana \n \n \n \n Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and TeachingVeronica Alvidrez Alvarez\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)William L. Snyder\, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES \n \n \n \n Someone who attends all sessions on Day 2 will qualify for 5.25 hours of PD credit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to see details about the sessions and speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n EXHIBITORS \n \n \n \n Burlington English Ellii EnGen GED Testing Service The NROC Project Pearson English Language Learning TALAE \n \n \n \n \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 the symposium. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here to get the flyer\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Download a printable copy of the symposium program. [link whole sentence to PDF] \n \n \n \n Printable PDF copy of the symposium program is coming soon. \n \n \n \n \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 TO: \n \n \n \n Ysleta Community Learning Center \n \n \n \n El Paso Public Libraries \n \n \n \n [name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant\, new line for each] \n \n \n \n The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL) \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: 1/27/25 URL:https://www.literacytexas.org/calendar/2027-conference/ LOCATION:Embassy Suites by Hilton Grapevine DFW Airport North\, 2401 Bass Pro Drive\, Grapevine\, TX\, 76051\, United States CATEGORIES:Annual Conference,Literacy Texas Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.literacytexas.org/wp-content/uploads/2027-conference-GOOGLE-blue-on-white-1200x300-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Literacy Texas":MAILTO:info@literacytexas.org END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR