Program Theory
Our theoretical perspectives influence how we view bilingualism. These inform the readings we present and our approaches towards teaching and learning. We adopt a holistic, dynamic, and fluid vision of bilingualism which treats the languages of a bilingual as co-existing and making up a single bilingual system. In this holistic view, language learning is seen as interrelated with concepts of power, politics, culture and cognition. Therefore, our program studies bilingualism sociolinguistically, psychologically, socioculturally, and cognitively. (Baker, C. & Wright, W. E. 2021). In learning, individuals use a complex linguistic repertoire to develop literacy. They transfer content, language, literacy, and cultural knowledge and skills from one language to another. The premise that languages are governed by distinct linguistic rules and cultural norms calls for the study of language as inseparable from culture and politics (Beeman, K. & Urow, C., 2013). This is important since language learning exists in a majority culture that sees languages other than English as minority languages. With these premises in mind, our program approaches the curriculum and experiences of candidates holistically, keeping in mind that it is important to consider not only content but also identify formation with a strong focus on equity and social justice.
Baker, C. & Wright, W. E. (2021) 7 th ed. Foundations of bilingual education and bilingualism. Clevedon: Multilingual Matters)
Beeman, K. & Urow, C. (2013). Teaching for Biliteracy: Strengthening Bridges between Languages. Caslon Publishing
Our Philosophy
The Bilingual Authorization (BILA) program at the School of Education (SOE) within the Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE) is grounded in a philosophy that emphasizes comprehensive educational development for our BILA candidates. The Vision and Mission for the Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE) School of Education (SOE) are to provide comprehensive educational development through access to data-driven, flexible, preparation pathways by promoting equity, educator excellence, student learning, and well-being. This philosophy is intertwined with our commitment to fostering equity, educator excellence, student learning, and well-being through data-driven and flexible educational pathways. Our approach is to not only prepare candidates for success in Dual Language classrooms but also to nurture them as advocates for equity, diversity, and academic excellence.
Our Purpose
Aligned with the School of Education’s (SOE) core values, the Bilingual Authorization Program (BILA) at the Riverside County Office of Education aims to provide top-tier preparation for future bilingual educators. The program is designed to equip educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in diverse educational settings and contribute positively to the field of bilingual education. Rooted in the latest research and strategies promoted by the SOE’s Center for Teacher Preparation (CTP), the program focuses on high levels of bilingualism, biliteracy, and biculturalism in dual-language settings.
The program’s guiding statement reflects a commitment to equity, excellence, and preparing educators for dual-language classrooms and advocacy roles. By aligning with the goal of supplying Riverside County’s bilingual classrooms with highly qualified teachers, BILA ensures that candidates are well-prepared for the unique demands of bilingual education, maintaining a dedication to bilingual education excellence.
Our Rationale
The rationale that supports the Bilingual Added Authorization program at RCOE’s School of Education is to address the identified critical need for highly qualified bilingual educators across our county and the state. Recognizing the evolving demands for bilingual educators , our program is designed to align seamlessly with the SOE's mission of promoting equity and excellence in education. We aim to set a firm foundation for our candidates, preparing them to be exemplary leaders who model advocacy for bilingual education. To achieve this, we thoroughly vet candidates for alignment with our program's mission and standards, including verifying credentials with the California Commission of Teacher Credentialing and conducting a comprehensive review to ensure that they meet all program requirements.
