Project Connect ESL FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Project Connect ESL?
A: Project Connect ESL is a $2.3 million US Department of Education National Professional Development grant that has been awarded to Morningside University. This grant program will assist current certified educators in providing instruction and support to K-12 English Learners in the classroom through FULLY FUNDED SCHOLARSHIPS for ESL online endorsement coursework.
Another component of the grant will be providing professional development to partnering school districts.
Q: Who is eligible for the Project Connect ESL Grant Funds (18 credit hours)?
A: Certified Teachers wanting to add an ESL Endorsement to their current certification.
Our partner schools will have priority should we receive more applicants than we have funds for year 1 of the grant. Students who are employed by school districts in the identified consortium at the time of grant application will have a preference for enrollment. All students must meet Morningside University and Sharon Walker School of Education requirements for admission to respective programs. Other students may be considered as participants, as appropriate, and as funds are available.
Q: Can I earn my ESL Endorsement online?
A: YES! The ESL Endorsement is designed to be a 100% online delivery.
Q: How many courses am I required to take to complete the ESL Endorsement?
A: There are 6 courses (18 credit hours) to complete the ESL Endorsement.
Q: How long will it take to complete the ESL Endorsement?
A: A student can complete the endorsement in one year (3 semesters).
Q: Can I continue teaching/working while I am taking courses?
A: YES! The ESL Endorsement is designed so you may continue to teach/work while
Q: What is the process to apply for the ESL grant?
A:
Step 1:
Apply to Morningside University and add Project Connect in the notes field.
Morningside University Application
Step 2:
We require official transcripts to be sent directly to Morningside University’s Sharon Walker School of Education from the institution. We accept electronic transcripts from either (a) an institution or (b) from an established provider, sent directly from the institution or established provider to the Sharon Walker School of Education. Established providers include: Script Safe, Parchment, National Student Clearinghouse, Docufide, SENDedu, etc. Designated officials from institutions (i.e., Registrar) or third-party vendors.
Additionally, we accept official transcripts by mail if sent from the institution directly to the Sharon Walker School of Education.
Please have institutions mail transcripts to:
Morningside University
Sharon Walker School of Education
1501 Morningside Avenue
Sioux City, IA 51106
Fax: 712-274-5488
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Step 3:
Be officially admitted to Morningside University
Step 4:
The Project Connect team will contact you and provide you with the Project Connect ESL Grant Google Form Application.
Q: What if I am currently enrolled at Morningside or have been in the past?
You will not need to apply to Morningside University; however, you will need to make contact with the Project Connect team for a Program Request Change form and Project Connect application..
Q: Can I complete the Practicum where I work and/or reside?
A: YES! You may complete the Practicum piece of the endorsement where you are currently working.
Q: What is the tuition fee?
A: Tuition will be $333/credit in the fall for licensed teachers.
Q: How will I receive the Project Connect Funds?
A: The Financial Aid Office at Morningside University will work in conjunction with the Business Office on campus in disbursing the scholarship funds. Current teachers do not need to fill out a FAFSA form, unless you want Financial Aid for the non-scholarship courses that are required for the Master's degree.
Q: When is the deadline for applying for the Project Connect Grant?
A: Apply now for the 2024-2025 academic year. The sooner you apply, the better!
Q: Can I earn my Master’s degree with the ESL endorsement? (MAT: ESL Education)
A: Yes, the additional courses will be at your own expense. Project Connect funds are only available for ESL coursework.
Q: How many more credits would I need for the MAT: ESL Education?
A: You would need to complete the required foundation courses, 7 courses for 17 credits. Required Foundation Core
Q: I still have more questions, who can I contact directly?
A: Please reach out to the Project Connect ESL team:
Rebecca Zettle
Project Connect ESL Program Coordinator
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712-274-5275
Melissa Kanost
Project Connect ESL Academic Coordinator
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712-274-5118
Cynthia (Cindy) Witt
Project Connect Academic Advisor
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712-470-3633