Savvas Learning's SIOP Model Gains State Approval for Educator Development in Colorado
Savvas Learning Company has made a significant stride in educational support for English learners by announcing that its SIOP® (Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol) Model has been officially approved by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE). This recognition affirms that the SIOP Model Professional Learning meets the standards required for educator professional development aimed at enhancing English language instruction in Colorado's K-12 educational landscape.
The SIOP Model, developed by experts Dr. Jana Echevarría, Dr. MaryEllen Vogt, and Dr. Deborah J. Short, provides a robust framework designed specifically to make curriculum content accessible and engaging for English learners (ELs). It not only helps these learners navigate grade-level content but also promotes their academic language development—both critical for educational success.
The newly approved program aligns with the CDE's recent mandate that requires educators who hold licenses in key subject areas—such as elementary education, mathematics, science, social studies, and English language arts—to undergo professional learning tailored for English learners. This requirement reflects the increasing recognition of the importance of equipping teachers with the skills necessary to effectively support the state's growing population of multilingual students.
Bethlam Forsa, CEO of Savvas Learning Company, expressed pride in this achievement, stating, "Savvas is honored to contribute to Colorado’s educational community by providing state-approved SIOP® professional development. This initiative aims not just to meet state teaching requirements but also to enrich the instructional experience for English learners."
The SIOP Model stands out due to its empirical validation, which demonstrates its effectiveness in preparing students—particularly those who are English learners—for college and career readiness. It emphasizes simultaneous development of both academic language and content knowledge, ensuring all students have the necessary foundations for future success.
Savvas Learning Company is the only entity collaborating directly with the authors of the SIOP Model, enabling them to deliver professional learning that stays true to the original principles of the Model. This partnership guarantees that educators receive high-integrity and authentic training that can be applied in diverse classroom settings.
Beyond this local initiative, Savvas Learning Company is recognized globally, offering high-quality educational resources utilized by millions of students across more than 90% of the public school districts in the United States. Their products are designed to be engaging, innovative, and aligned with academic standards. From core curricula to supplemental programs and advanced assessment tools, Savvas's solutions are tailored to meet the diverse needs of learners.
As educators increasingly encounter a need for effective strategies to teach English learners, programs such as Savvas’s SIOP Model are becoming indispensable in fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment. With its recent approval, the SIOP Model is set to play an important role in shaping the educational landscape for English learners in Colorado and beyond.
For those interested in more information, Savvas Learning Company actively engages in providing resources and professional development opportunities, which can be explored further on their official website. This initiative not only aims to uplift educators’ teaching practices but also seeks to ensure that every student, regardless of their language background, receives quality education tailored to their learning needs.