Join the ELEX March Cohort (March 22 – April 4, 2026) and explore Salt Lake City, Utah, and Washington, D.C.!

Through the ELEX Program, you’ll attend the TESOL 2026 International Convention & Expo in Salt Lake City, Utah (March 24–27, 2026) - the leading event for English-language teaching professionals. This milestone year marks 60 years of TESOL innovation and excellence, bringing together educators from around the globe to share ideas, research, and best practices.

At TESOL, you’ll join a vibrant international community of English Language teachers and experts dedicated to advancing English teaching and learning. The convention features four inspiring keynotes, 700+ interactive sessions, and a dynamic Expo highlighting the latest classroom resources, research, and technologies. It’s a place where ideas thrive, professional networks grow, and the future of English teaching comes to life.

To explore the full convention program and offerings, visit the official TESOL International Association website.

After the conference, your ELEX experience continues with a week of professional development and cultural exploration in Washington, D.C.. This journey helps you see how English is taught across different U.S. classrooms, and gives you practical strategies and tools to bring home.

What You’ll Experience

Professional Development Workshops

Take part in expert-led workshops focused on instructional strategies, teacher leadership, coaching, and technology-enhanced lesson design. These interactive, practice-based sessions help you build new, practical skills you can apply directly in your classroom.

School and University Visits

Visit public high school, community college and four-year universities (public and private) in the Washington, D.C. metro area as they wrap up their spring terms. You’ll observe classes, meet faculty, and discuss curriculum design, assessment, student support, and technology use. Past hosts have included George Mason University, University of Maryland, American University, Meridian High and Middle Schools, Howard Community College, and Gallaudet University, giving you a diverse perspective on English teaching across settings and audiences.

Networking and Professional Connections

Exchange ideas and build relationships with U.S. teachers, school leaders, and professional associations. These connections often grow into collaborations such as joint webinars, classroom exchanges, or shared teaching resources.

Cultural and Civic Exploration

As part of the ELEX experience, you’ll have the chance to discover American culture and everyday life through a variety of civic and cultural activities. In previous years, participants have visited places such as the U.S. Capitol, the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian museums, and Planet Word, as well as attended live arts and sporting events. Each experience offers a deeper connection to American history, culture, and community.

ELEX is looking for:

  • Russian citizen residing in Russia

  • English Language Teacher

  • No previous U.S. exchange experience in the last 7 years

  • Proven English Language Teaching leadership experience

  • Participants who are committed to returning to Russia after completing the program in the United States.