When an ELD teacher is on leave, does a school have to have a substitute that is certified (or emergency certified) in ELD to cover the EL classes? Or, can an appointed substitute provide the instruction, as long as they are in consultation with and working under another certified ELD teacher?

A substitute is acceptable as long as the district can ensure that the program is effective for the student and that the substitute is working closely with an ESL specialist. It’s very similar to a substitute who is teaching science without a science certification. They would be implementing instruction designed by a science teacher and in consultation with those who are certified.

If the ELD teachers’ leave is long-term, it will require extra care and attention from administrators and the ELD team to ensure that students’ language needs are being met and that the instruction is effective. PDE recommends a formal process for formative assessment and monitoring that schools can create locally based on what makes sense for teachers.