Spanish-English Biliteracy Transfer (SEBT)

Successfully Introduce English into Biliteracy Classrooms

SEBT is a multi-day professional learning program designed for biliteracy teachers who are introducing English while continuing to build strong Spanish literacy foundations. Grounded in the latest research on Spanish–English reading development, SEBT provides a clear developmental sequence for teaching foundational reading skills in both languages.

Participants receive explicit guidance on Spanish and English literacy assessments, when and how to introduce English foundational skills, and how to design lessons that support effective cross-linguistic transfer. SEBT is facilitated by experienced biliteracy teachers who have successfully implemented the approach in their own classrooms.

What You Will Learn

• Current research on Spanish–English biliteracy acquisition
• How to leverage students’ Spanish language knowledge to teach English literacy
• How to plan instruction using the SEBT developmental sequence
• Which Spanish and English assessments to use when planning targeted interventions

Program Highlights

• Instruction led by current biliteracy teachers who actively use the SEBT approach
• Opportunities to practice lesson delivery and assessment routines
• Personalized support for biliteracy teachers, reading specialists, ELD specialists, and instructional support teams

Is SEBT Right for You?

SEBT is designed for educators working in biliteracy programs who want to strengthen and accelerate students’ development of reading in Spanish and English. It is especially beneficial for:

• Teachers new or returning to biliteracy settings
• Schools and districts planning a scope and sequence for Spanish and English foundational skills
• Educators seeking to accelerate Spanish-speaking students’ English reading proficiency
• Teams aiming to better target Spanish learners’ needs

SEBT equips educators with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to support strong, equitable biliteracy development for all students.