TESL Ontario Embraces Social Media to Celebrate ESL Week November 8-14

TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - October 07, 2015) - TESL Ontario (Teachers of English as a Second Language) has changed the format of its annual ESL Week contest to a "People's Choice" voting of online submissions.

With ESL Week taking place this year November 8 through 14, there is now more time for ESL instructors, learners and administrators to share stories of their inspirational moments through either a video or written blog.

The annual celebration of ESL education and learning has been endorsed not only by Ontario communities, but also by thousands of ESL educators, students of all ages, and many learning institutions and school boards. To date more than 30 communities have officially proclaimed ESL Week in their respective areas. And as ESL Week continues to raise awareness of the importance of ESL education for Ontarians and newcomers to Canada, it is anticipated that last year's record number of Ontario communities officially proclaiming ESL Week will be surpassed in 2015.

Renate Tilson, executive director of TESL Ontario, explains the focus of the new ESL Week contest format. "Since much of today's English language learning takes place through social media and its tools, we felt it was an appropriate way of featuring the rewards and impact of this proud profession. The theme of 'Sharing Inspirational Moments' will serve to highlight not only the successful efforts and dedication of language training professionals, but also how language learning opportunities can make a difference in the lives of English language learners across Ontario."

A key highlight of ESL Week is the 43^rd annual conference of TESL Ontario #TESL2015 titled: "Expanding Horizons: Drawing on Experience and Knowledge", taking place at the Sheraton Centre Toronto, November 12 - 13, 2015. It is amongst the largest conference of its kind in Canada, hosting more than 800 delegates. A variety of interactive workshops, presentations, technology labs, panel discussions, research symposia, technology fair and more will be offered to language training professionals from public and private sectors, academics, researchers and government representatives. It is also at this event that Recognition Awards are presented to deserving TESL Ontario members acknowledging their excellence, commitment and long-term achievements.

TESL Ontario, established in 1972, is a non-profit organization serving the needs of teachers of English as a Second Language. It represents more than 4,600 language training professionals working in immigrant serving agencies, school boards, publicly funded sites across Ontario, colleges/universities, elementary/secondary and private language training schools. TESL Ontario's expertise is in teaching, advocacy, accreditation and professional development. The organization is instrumental in influencing the success of many thousands of English language learners throughout the province.

For more information visit www.teslontario.org and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest.