Conference attendees will be able to attend 3 workshops led by experienced literacy instructors and non profit professionals. Check back for updates. This page will be updated regularly as slots are filled.
If you have a workshop proposal, email Wes Young at wyoung@tarrantlit.org.
“ESL: Alive, Awake, and Fun”
Karen Peiser
This workshop will present various lively activities that can be used to make the ESL classroom and online class alive and fun. There will be active hands-on activities to engage the participants. These activities will help teachers spice up their teaching and help students to fun while learning English. Handouts will be given out with instructions for each activities.
“A Taste of TECs”
Matthew Johnston – Literacy Connexus
A Taste of TECs (Teaching English ConneXus) is a one-hour introductory session drawn from the full 7-hour hybrid training for new ESL teachers. Participants gain a brief foundation in language acquisition, explore key differences between adult and child learners, and learn best practices in ESL instruction—along with practical, ready-to-use activities for the ESL classroom.
“Classroom Management and Engagement in Adult Education Programs“
Courtney Bonnet
Student retention in adult education is closely tied to how learners experience the classroom. This session focuses on practical classroom management and engagement strategies that promote consistency, respect, and a sense of belonging for adult learners. Participants will learn how to build positive learning environments, increase participation, and address challenges in ways that keep students motivated, supported, and returning to class. Attendees will leave with immediately applicable strategies to strengthen classroom culture and improve learning outcomes in adult education settings.
“ESL and AI”
Charlie Johnston
“Integrating Prayer into your ESL Classroom”
Matthew Johnston, Literacy Connexus
Director’s Roundtable
Harry Wilson, HOPE Literacy
Presenter Bios
Matthew Johnston is Executive Director of Literacy ConneXus, equipping churches and volunteers to serve immigrants and refugees through English and literacy ministry. With extensive experience in ESL instruction, training, and curriculum development, he leads with a commitment to educational excellence, cross-cultural partnership, and Christ-centered
service.
Dr. Harry Wilson co-founded HOPE Literacy and has been it’s sole executive director for over 20 years. He has helped to establish over 125 church-based ESL programs since its founding. Dr. Wilson holds a doctorate in Islamic Studies from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Karen Peiser has 31 years experience of Teaching ESL. She is currently the Director of ESL at Southland Baptist Church in San Angelo, Texas which she started in 2007. She is also a ministry consultant and ESL Teacher trainer for Literacy Connexus.
Dr. Courtney Bonnet is an educational consultant, speaker, and instructional leader committed to empowering adult learners and the educators who serve them. Her work focuses on creating engaging, supportive learning environments that promote persistence,
confidence, and workforce readiness. Dr. Bonnet brings practical strategies and a hopeful, learner-centered approach to adult education.
March 7th, 2026 