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Valuing English Language Varieties: Understanding Language Diversity and Its Relationship to Structured Literacy with Dr. Brandy Gatlin-Nash

Thursday, January 25, 2024 @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm EST

A teacher reading to students

Presented by Dr. Brandy Gatlin-Nash, Associate Professor, University of California, Irvine; and Maya Goodall, Chief Marketing Officer, CORE Learning

Sponsored by CORE Learning

Watch the RecordingListen to the Podcast

Learn more about viewing the live presentation and the recording, earning your CE certificate, and using our new accessibility features.

Think everyone in the U.S. speaks the same English? Think again! There are approximately 20 to 30 distinct types of English spoken here, like African American English (AAE). These dialects aren’t just variations; they are complete, valid forms of English, each shaped by its own unique regional, cultural, and social influences, with distinct pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, and structure.

In this edWebinar, join Dr. Brandy Gatlin-Nash as she explains the direct tie between recognizing and valuing linguistic and cultural identity and effective literacy instruction. Learn how, by seeing these English varieties not as improper but as valuable assets, educators can build upon them as students develop skills in Academic English. This approach does more than honor students’ diverse backgrounds; it enhances their overall language development, acknowledging the full spectrum of English as it is spoken across the country.

Part three of our “Structured Literacy and Language Diversity Lunch and Learn Week” highlights the importance of honoring students’ linguistic backgrounds for educational success and personal growth. Discover how this perspective, when combined with Structured Literacy, opens the door to richer, more meaningful learning experiences. Remember, English language varieties aren’t just valid—they’re a gateway to a broader and deeper understanding for everyone.

This recorded edWebinar is of interest to PreK-12 teachers and school and district leaders.

Brandy Gatlin-Nash

About the Presenters

Dr. Brandy Gatlin-Nash is an Associate Professor in the School of Education at the University of California, Irvine, where her passion for education and innovation shines. Her role extends beyond traditional academic boundaries as an affiliated faculty member in both the Center for Creating Opportunities through Education and the Department of Language Science in the School of Social Sciences. Dr. Gatlin-Nash’s research is at the forefront of exploring the intricate interplay between language and literacy among culturally and linguistically diverse students. Her background as a K–12 special education teacher enriches her academic insights, blending practical classroom experience with cutting-edge educational research. Dr. Gatlin-Nash’s contributions are shaping the future of inclusive and effective education strategies, making a lasting impact on diverse learning communities.

Maya Goodall

Maya Valencia Goodall, M.A., M.Ed. is a pioneering force in education, driven by a singular mission: to ensure that every student, regardless of their linguistic background, receives the literacy and language instruction they both need and deserve. As a co-founder of Lingual Learning and co-creator of Lexia English within Rosetta Stone/Lexia Learning, her journey has been defined by innovation, impact, and unwavering dedication to empowering diverse learners. Today, she continues to shape the educational landscape as a leader in the design and enhancement of OL&LA (Online Literacy and Language Academy) at CORE Learning. Maya’s legacy is a testament to her extraordinary commitment to educational excellence.

Learn more about viewing the live presentation and the recording, earning your CE certificate, and using our new accessibility features.

Join the Language and Literacy community to network with educators, participate in online discussions, receive invitations to upcoming edWebinars, and view recordings of previous programs to earn CE certificates.


CORE Learning

For 25+ years, CORE has pioneered evidence-based and research-grounded professional learning experiences and school supports that equip educators with the tools they need to advance rigorous instruction, high-quality materials, and effective assessments. CORE partners with educators to strengthen the foundations of teaching and learning, ensuring all students experience a rigorous, relevant, and inclusive public education.


Online Learning & Literacy Academy. Inclusive Teaching, Diverse Learning.

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