Making the Grade Podcast Episode 44: Teaching, Reaching, and Connecting with English Learners featuring Andrea Bitner

In this episode of Making the Grade, host Georgia sits down with Andrea Bitner, an EL teacher, author, and professor with over 25 years of experience in teaching English learners and helping educators strengthen communication with multilingual students and families. Andrea shares how educators can connect more deeply with their students, support language acquisition, and create classrooms where every learner feels seen, supported, and empowered.

Building Bridges with Multilingual Learners

Andrea Bitner began her career as a high school ELA teacher before taking on roles as a Title I Reading Specialist, Teacher Mentor, College Professor, and National Presenter. Throughout her journey, she’s seen firsthand the power of connection in helping multilingual learners thrive. She emphasizes that effective teaching for English learners starts with empathy and open communication between educators, students, and families.

Today, Andrea travels across the country partnering with schools and universities to help educators teach, reach, and collaborate more effectively with English learners and their families — building inclusive learning environments where every student feels valued.

Understanding the Hidden Challenges English Learners Face

Andrea shares insight into the often unseen challenges that many EL students experience, from adjusting to a new culture to navigating the trauma of displacement or language barriers. She highlights how understanding these emotional layers allows teachers to respond with compassion and create a stronger sense of safety in their classrooms.

Through her stories and research, Andrea reminds educators that teaching English learners isn’t just about language instruction — it’s about supporting the whole child.

The Neuroscience of Language Learning

In this conversation, Andrea explains the neuroscience behind acquiring a new language, helping teachers understand what’s really happening in the brain as students become bilingual. This knowledge allows educators to adjust instruction, pacing, and expectations while celebrating small wins and progress along the way.

Andrea also shares insights from her book Take Me Home, which tells the true stories of 11 former EL students who open up about learning English and adapting to life in America. These moving accounts inspire educators to think beyond academics and focus on the human experience of learning.

Creating Inclusive Classrooms Where Every Student Belongs

For Andrea, teaching English learners is about more than instruction — it’s about creating inclusive and empowering classrooms. She encourages educators to focus on connection before correction, to listen before leading, and to remember that language learning takes courage. Her message is clear: when teachers build authentic relationships, they help students build confidence that lasts a lifetime.

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