There is an urgent need for bilingual teachers in the United States, with more than half of the country, including California, currently facing a shortage. One effective way for educators to meet the needs of non-English speaking students is by earning a bilingual authorization.
Here is a look at what a bilingual authorization entails and why it’s a worthwhile pursuit.
What is BCLAD? Becoming a Bilingual, Cross-Cultural, Language, and Academic Development Education
The acronym BCLAD stands for Bilingual, Cross-cultural, Language, and Academic Development authorization. This educational authorization prepares teachers to support and teach students who do not speak English as their first language. The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing emphasizes that a bilingual authorization equips future educators to provide English Language Development (ELD) instruction across various educational settings, from preschool to K-12 and even adult education.As a bilingual teacher, you will have myriad responsibilities which may include:
- Fostering student proficiency in multiple languages
- Developing lesson plans and assignments
- Monitoring student progress and success
- Designing coursework that promotes language development
- Addressing parental concerns
- Staying up-to-date with innovative language teaching practices
Reasons to Pursue a Bilingual Authorization
Now, let’s explore the strategic reasons why earning BCLAD authorization is a smart career move.
1. Meet the Growing Demand for Bilingual Teachers
The demand for bilingual teachers is high. As the United States becomes more diverse and as school districts seek to accommodate the needs of students for whom English is not their first language.
By obtaining bilingual authorization, you position yourself as a highly sought-after candidate in the job market. You will fill a significant talent gap and enter the field with the competitive, marketable skills needed to secure a meaningful teaching career.
2. Improve cultural competency and foster inclusivity.
As a bilingual teacher, you will have a unique opportunity to contribute to cultural competency and inclusivity in education. Students whose first language isn’t English often experience feelings of marginalization, disengagement, or isolation.
By being a source of support in the academic setting, you can greatly improve their experiences and contribute to their success. Your role as a bilingual teacher is paramount to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for students, regardless of their language background.
3. Unlock a Wealth of Career Opportunities
One advantage of having a bilingual authorization is the wide range of career opportunities it opens up. This credential equips you to teach in both mainstream and bilingual classroom settings. The versatility grants you access to a broader pool of job opportunities compared to teachers who can only cater to students who speak English as their first language.
Obtain Your Bilingual Authorization, Spanish Emphasis at USD SOLES
The Bilingual Authorization, Spanish Emphasis from the University of San Diego School of Leadership and Educational Sciences (SOLES) equips students with cutting-edge strategies and methods for teaching English Learners (EL) effectively, whether in mainstream classrooms, Spanish-English bilingual classrooms, or dual language immersion programs in California.
Note: The Bilingual Authorization, Spanish Emphasis program at USD SOLES has four pathways available for two types of candidates. You can learn more about those options here.
You can also take this opportunity to schedule a call with an admissions advisor or attend an admissions event to learn more about obtaining a master’s degree in education (and a bilingual authorization). If you are ready to take the next actionable step in your future, start your online application today.
Unlock our resource, How to Become a Teacher in California: Your Guide to Getting a Teaching Credential.
