2026 NYSAFLT Annual Conference

A proficiency-oriented approach empowers students to confidently use the language to communicate, rather than just knowing about it. By emphasizing real-world communication, this method reduces learner anxiety and increases student engagement as they feel successful using the language. This approach aligns with the NYS world language standards and it allows students to see their progress, boosting motivation and confidence. They also feel more confident to use their growing skills outside of educational settings. Join this session to learn practical strategies for implementing a proficiency-oriented approach in your classroom and developing your students’ communicative competence.

How do we maintain a 90%+ target language environment while ensuring students remain on task and engaged? Join a veteran educator and a NYSAFLT Novice Award winner for an intergenerational deep dive into classroom management tailored specifically for the World Language setting.

This session bridges the gap between tried and true routines and modern innovation. We will explore the foundational practices that keep a classroom running like clockwork, alongside high-engagement strategies fresh from recent training. Participants will leave with a practical toolkit designed to lower student anxiety, maximize immersion, and build a community where every student feels safe, supported, and heard.

Have you ever wondered how to get your work published in the NYSAFLT Journal? Do you have colleagues with valuable insights and experiences to share but who might not yet see themselves as potential authors? This session, led by the current journal co-editors, will demystify the publication process and outline the supportive steps available to help you publish your first article in the NYSAFLT Journal. We'll provide a detailed overview of the submission guidelines, the review process, and the resources available to assist you from initial idea to published article. Whether you're an aspiring author or simply curious about the process, bring your questions and invite your colleagues to join us for this informative and encouraging session!

This session will address issues relevant to teacher preparation programs such as the culminating performance assessments, NYSED updates, recruitment, retention of new teachers, curriculum, assessment, standards, K-16 articulation, world language methodology, and more. Open to all who are interested, especially full-time and adjunct faculty in higher education, this roundtable provides an opportunity to brainstorm ideas, share solutions and to continue important dialogue in the profession.

Connect with fellow educators from your region, learn about your regional organization, and discover ways to get involved and advocate for language education in your area.

Connect with fellow educators from your region, learn about your regional organization, and discover ways to get involved and advocate for language education in your area.

We invite you to come find out about our Leaders of Tomorrow. Come see what our current and former participants say about the program. This is a perfect opportunity to chat if you are interested in joining our program. If you’re a former participant, stop by to share your leadership trajectory with our new leaders. This is a panel discussion.