A Season of Growth for NYSAFLT Educators
Dear NYSAFLT Colleagues,
When we last connected in January, we talked about looking through a “fresh lens” for the new year. Now, as the days grow longer and the first hints of spring begin to emerge, that fresh perspective is turning into something even more exciting: growth. Just as the perennials in our gardens are preparing to push through the soil, many of us find ourselves looking for that same sense of rejuvenation in our classrooms. We know the stretch between winter and spring break can be long, and it’s often the time when we—and our students—crave new inspiration the most.
To help keep your “teacher toolbox garden” thriving, Mike Lauria has scheduled two more virtual workshops this spring. I encourage you to visit our website (https://nysaflt.org/virtualworkshops/) to register for these sessions:
- On April 20th Tash Austin, PhD, will present her session “Limited Capital: A Genealogy of Culturelessness in (Language) Teacher Education.”
- On May 20th Kaleigh Thomas will present “Move It or Lose It: Keeping Students Engaged Through Movement.”
Even as we navigate the spring, we are already planning for a powerful summer. Mike Lauria is hard at work finalizing the details for our Summer Institute, taking place virtually August 3–6. This year’s theme is “The Power of Language: Representation in Every Voice, Amplifying Voices, Empowering Speakers”, and perfectly aligns with our goal of helping students become empowered global citizens who see themselves reflected in the languages they study.
Finally, it’s time to look toward our annual conference! Alexis Thornton and the AC Planning Committee are officially seeking presenters for AC26, which will be held in Albany on October 16–17, 2026. Whether you are a new or seasoned presenter, we want to hear from you! Please consider submitting a proposal (https://nysaflt.org/annual-conference-call-for-proposals/) to share your talents with your colleagues across the state.
In January, we talked about being a team. Let’s continue to lean on one another as we finish this school year strong.
Wishing you a season of growth, inspiration, and plenty of “blooming” moments in your classrooms!
With warmth and appreciation,
Wendy
NYSAFLT Event Calendar
Following the passing of our beloved friend, esteemed leader and longtime Executive Director John Carlino in January 2022, the NYSAFLT Executive Team and Board of Directors continue to ensure that our organization is functioning efficiently. The NYSAFLT 100K for 100 Years John D. Carlino Legacy Fund remains the best way to honor John by making donations in his name. With this fund, NYSAFLT will remember John and his vision to financially support projects and help solve problems that language teachers and leaders face. As we move forward along the pathway that John paved, his legacy will forever live on with the NYSAFLT 100K for 100 Years John D. Carlino Legacy Fund.
“John David Carlino obituary.” The Buffalo News, February 5, 2022.
