Wisconsin-based English-language education program becomes the standard across U.S.

Air Date:
Heard On The Morning Show
Blue lockers line a hallway in a school building.
A student walks down a hallway with lockers Friday, Sept. 17, 2021, at Hackett Elementary School in Beloit, Wis. Angela Major/WPR

Twenty years ago, a Wisconsin state agency sought to improve the teaching of English to non-native speaking K-12 students. WIDA is now the standard for English proficiency testing in more than 40 states. We talk to WIDA’s founder and director, and two Wisconsin educators about the program.

Episode Credits

  • Kate Archer Kent Host
  • Joel Patenaude Producer
  • Sarah Hopefl Technical Director
  • Tim Boals Guest
  • Anne Gamoke Guest
  • Kris Kullner Guest

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