The U.S. Department of State selects Jan Lacina, Ph.D., Bezos Family Foundation Endowed Chair in Early Childhood Education at TCU, to lead English Language Specialist project in Israel. English Language Specialists assist U.S. Embassies in delivering and maintaining quality English language programs overseas and promoting mutual understanding between the U.S. and other countries.
Beginning late January through July, Lacina’s project will provide English language teachers in Israel with resources to help students develop clear and structured written communication skills. She explains that the goal is "to deepen comprehension while encouraging creative expression within a community of writers."
The English Language Specialist Program is the premier opportunity for leaders in the field of teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) to enact meaningful and sustainable changes in the way that English is taught abroad. Through projects developed by U.S. Embassies in more than 80 countries, English Language Specialists work directly with local teacher trainers, educational leaders, and ministry of education officials to exchange knowledge, build capacity, and establish partnerships benefiting participants, institutions, and communities in the United States and overseas.
The Importance of Writing Instruction
Lacina highlights the critical need for improving writing instruction in international
settings. As a leader in literacy learning and teacher education, her scholarly work
and extensive experience provide a strong foundation for this initiative. According
to Lacina, "Communication, such as writing, is important at the international level
as it facilitates collaboration and interpersonal interactions." She emphasizes that
"we need more than ever for all students to be critical thinkers and better communicators."
A Focus on Public Diplomacy
With more than 20 years of experience as a researcher and educator, Lacina supports
the program’s public diplomacy goals. Lacina notes that "such programs promote civil
discourse between diverse teachers with an emphasis on relevant, meaningful and global
issues."
Influence on Leadership and Teaching at TCU
Lacina believes this international experience will advance her work and impact at
TCU. As an educator who has authored more than 100 publications and held leadership
roles in national and international literacy organizations, she sees the project as
a natural extension of her commitment to global education.
Reflecting on the impact of public diplomacy, Lacina states, "It influences my leadership as it is essential for leaders to effectively communicate with diverse groups of people and create space for mutual understanding and respect."
She adds, "I began my career as an ESL teacher with learners from around the world and I am excited to return to working with teachers who inspire learners in English language teaching. This experience benefits my TCU students as I share international insights to connect to their learning."
Representing TCU and the United States
Lacina expresses gratitude for the opportunity, describing it as "an honor to serve
as a specialist for this important program." The U.S. Department of State identifies English Language Specialists as "top-tier experts
in the TESOL field."
"It is an honor to assist the U.S. Embassy in Israel in delivering a quality English language program and to promote mutual understanding between the U.S. and countries around the world,” says Lacina.
Advancing Global Collaboration
Lacina highlights the significance this initiative. Highlighting the importance of global collaboration, Lacina believes,
"Projects like the specialist program increase understanding between people in the
United States and around the world. Through such programs, we develop trust and respect
by working together." She adds, "Collaborating with international colleagues helps
me not only be a better teacher and researcher at TCU but also a better human being."
About the English Language Specialist Program
The English Language Specialist Program, administered by the Center for Intercultural Education and Development at Georgetown University, provides TESOL leaders with opportunities to enact meaningful and sustainable changes
in English language teaching worldwide.
Since 1991, the English Language Specialist Program has supported in-country, virtual, and mixed projects in which hundreds of TESOL scholars and educators promote English language learning, enhance English teaching capacity, and foster mutual understanding between the U.S. and other countries through cultural exchange. During their projects, English Language Specialists may conduct intensive teacher training, advise ministries of education or participate in high-level educational consultations, and offer plenary presentations at regional, national or international TESOL conferences. These projects are challenging and those selected represent the best of the U.S. TESOL community. In return, the program provides professional development opportunities to help participants experience different cultures and build skills that can greatly enhance their TESOL careers at home.
English Language Specialists are counted among the more than 50,000 individuals participating in U.S. Department of State exchange programs each year. The Specialist Program is administered by the Center for Intercultural Education and Development at Georgetown University.
For further information about the English Language Specialist Program or the U.S. Department of State, please visit elprograms.org/specialist.
