My Goal: Equipping Powerful Communicators

I love the field of multilingual education. I taught English Learners in an EL program for 5 years. I spent 6 years as a bilingual third-grade classroom teacher. I enjoyed 4 years as a district-wide multilingual instructional coach for 8 schools. Now I serve Illinois as a multilingual education specialist. I soak up podcasts, webinars, blogs, and professional reading. I enjoy writing, discussing, meeting with teachers, and networking. I truly light up sharing in our work. 

But it's not because I love the English language. No. I'm not obsessed with English. 

I didn't get into this work because I have a hopelessly devoted passion for the English language. My goal for students is not to clone perfectly proficient English readers, speakers, writers, and listeners. While language proficiency is important, that never was my ultimate goal. 

I want students to be and feel equipped to be powerful communicators. I want them to freely harness their power and fearlessly share their genius with the world, in the language of their choice. I want them to listen empathetically, speak confidently, read curiously and consciously, and write passionately. I want them to mobilize their language skills to make a difference for themselves and others. I want students to use their passions, gifts, assets, and skills to bring joy to their lives and to the lives of others. 

No, I'm not obsessed with English. Identifying verbs and nouns doesn't light me up. I'm obsessed with empowering students and families and embracing all of our languages, cultures, and identities. I'm obsessed with the opportunity to provide linguistic access to those I serve. I'm obsessed with advocating for students and families. I'm obsessed with connecting those I serve with needed resources. I'm obsessed with equipping educators and leaders with tools and opportunities to reflect on their practice to better serve students. I'm obsessed with supporting educators in their work. 


Do verbs light you up? Perhaps! But it's the students. It's the families. It's the community. Let's keep our focus on empowerment, connection, advocacy, and of course- joy!



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