Laura Shier

 

AES Director

Welcome to AES and Lewis & Clark.  I have been working in the ESL field since 1989 as a teacher and an administrator, and I am very happy to be the Director of AES.  It is a wonderful job because it allows me to interact with people from all over the world.  As a TESOL professional, I specialize in reading and encourage students to use reading as a means to develop proficiency in English.  I am passionate about helping students discover their own motivation to succeed and develop as lifelong learners.

I grew up in Wisconsin, but after years of travel, study, and work, I settled here in Portland, where I have been since 1994.  I know the challenges of living in another country and learning the language.  I and the other AES teachers and staff are here to support you in this important opportunity you have chosen to take!

Academic Background

MA, Applied Linguistics, 1989, University of Wisconsin, Madison

BA, English, 1985, University of Wisconsin

Certificate in Management, Training and Development, 1998, Portland State University