The Dr. Elizabeth Webb Professional Learning Series

The Dr. Elizabeth Webb Professional Learning Series, hosted annually by GATESOL, is a cornerstone program designed to meet the diverse needs of our members. Featuring a rich array of workshops, seminars, and events, this series is meticulously curated to address the multifaceted challenges faced by educators, administrators, families, and government officials in the field of TESOL. Each year, the executive board committee convenes to analyze recent trends and emerging needs, identifying themes and experts to deliver engaging and impactful events that resonate with our membership.

The professional learning series convenes bi-monthly, gathering online for engaging sessions lasting between one to one and a half hours. Throughout its existence, the series has offered diverse workshops covering topics such as Artificial Intelligence in language education, the integration of research, theory, and practice in second language education, and robust presentations tailored to support ESOL administrators in Georgia. Additionally, it has served as a platform for TESOL researchers and scholars to tackle pertinent inquiries and share valuable insights.

The Dr. Elizabeth Webb Professional Learning Series, named in December 2023 in honor of Dr. Elizabeth Webb, stands as a tribute to her exemplary leadership and dedication to the culturally and linguistically diverse community in Georgia. Dr. Webb, who served as the president of GATESOL from 2021 to 2023, has long been a champion for diversity and inclusion. Her impact extends back to her tenure as the Director of Innovative Academic Programs for the Georgia Department of Education, where she oversaw a wide range of educational initiatives. From K-12 Gifted Education to College Readiness, ESOL and Title III programs, World Languages and International Education, Alternative Education, 21st Century After School Programs, and Migrant Education initiatives, Dr. Webb's visionary leadership has left an indelible mark on Georgia's educational landscape.