Dr. Maylén Sullivan—(Re)envisioning world languages instruction for social engagement and change as the 2026 California Language Teacher of the Year
Our guest, Dr. Maylén R.R. Sullivan, is the 2026 SWCOLT and California Language Teacher of the Year. A passionate trilingual educator originally from Cuba, she serves as the Coronado Unified School District World Language Teacher on Special Assignment (ToSA), where she leads K-12 professional development and shapes the department's vision.
Sullivan believes language is a powerful vehicle for problem solving and civic engagement — empowering students to servetheir communities, contribute meaningfully to the world around them, and take action on issues that matter. Her instruction motivates students to connect with new cultures, analyze authentic texts, engage in high-level academic discussions, and use their linguistic skills to address real-world challenges.
Sullivan's work has significantly increased the number of students receiving the Seal of Biliteracy and earning travel scholarships. A Certified Leadership Coach with a PhD in Leadership Studies from the University of San Diego, Dr. Sullivan has 16 years of teaching experience and a decade of instructional leadership, facilitating workshops for educators locally and nationally.
Your Host: Jacob Easley II, PhD,PMP
Sponsor NAESP. National School LeadersConference–Powered by NAESP is designed for Pre-K–12 principals and assistant principals, featuring high-impact learning tracks, networking, and the newly added "Camp Lead-A-Lot" retreat. Held July 13-15, 2026, Orlando, FL, learn more and register at naespconferenence.org.
Resources:
CALanguage Teacher’s Association (CLTA)
Greeting: Dr. Rosa Rivera-McCutchen
Research Assistant: Emma Worthington
#EDUPXE #EDUCATIONALEXCELLENCE #EDUCATIONALEQUITY #TOTY#XEListeningTour
World Languages Teacher
Dr. Maylén R.R. Sullivan is the 2026 SWCOLT and California Language Teacher of the Year. A passionate trilingual educator originally from Cuba, she serves as the Coronado Unified School District World Language Teacher on Special Assignment (ToSA), where she leads K-12 professional development and shapes the department's vision. Sullivan believes language is a powerful vehicle for problem solving and civic engagement — empowering students to serve their communities, contribute meaningfully to the world around them, and take action on issues that matter. Her instruction motivates students to connect with new cultures, analyze authentic texts, engage in high-level academic discussions, and use their linguistic skills to address real-world challenges. Sullivan's work has significantly increased the number of students receiving the Seal of Biliteracy and earning travel scholarships. A Certified Leadership Coach with a PhD in Leadership Studies from the University of San Diego, Dr. Sullivan has 16 years of teaching experience and a decade of instructional leadership, facilitating workshops for educators locally and nationally.