This session overviews an exploratory research study in which ESOL teacher candidates participated in a multi-week unit within an applied linguistics course in which they read a variety of articles and participated in various activities familiarizing them with important aspects of Spanish linguistics. Results suggest that the course unit contributed to their understanding of Spanish linguistics, positively influenced their views of these learners, and encouraged them to view multilingual learners from a strengths-based perspective. Come and hear how Dr. Brian Hibbs from Dalton State College is helping to reshape teacher education with innovative course units!