News Summary
Dr. Maylén Sullivan, a dedicated high school teacher from Coronado Unified School District, has been awarded the title of Teacher of the Year by the California Language Teachers Association. Her commitment to fostering inclusive language education through innovative teaching methods and curriculum development has made a significant impact on her students and the community. Dr. Sullivan’s initiatives include promoting multilingual education and creating culturally relevant curriculum centered on global topics. As she begins her year of service, she will advocate for language education and support fellow educators.
Coronado, California – Dr. Maylén Sullivan, a high school French and Spanish teacher at the Coronado Unified School District, has been named the 2026 Teacher of the Year by the California Language Teachers Association (CLTA). This prestigious recognition highlights her dedication to excellence in language education and her innovative teaching methods that emphasize student voice, critical thinking, and global competence.
In announcing her selection, CLTA President Ronit Ron-Yerushalmi praised Dr. Sullivan as a visionary educator committed to equitable practices and high-impact instruction in language education. This recognition is awarded to teachers who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to service in the world language profession, making it a significant achievement for Dr. Sullivan.
Dr. Sullivan’s innovative approach to language education includes developing culturally relevant curriculum units that address real-world issues, such as ocean conservation and migration. By connecting languages to important global topics, she fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the cultures associated with the languages her students are learning. Additionally, she frequently invites guest speakers from the French-speaking world into her classes, enhancing her students’ learning experiences.
As a World Languages Teacher on Special Assignment (ToSA), Dr. Sullivan plays a pivotal role in supporting K–12 teachers within the district with curriculum design and data analysis. Her contributions have been instrumental in creating inclusive, proficiency-driven language programs that cater to the diverse needs of students throughout Coronado Unified School District.
Dr. Sullivan has also been actively involved in initiatives that expand opportunities for multilingual education, including the development of the Seal of Biliteracy program in Coronado. This program recognizes students who have achieved proficiency in multiple languages, thereby promoting linguistic diversity and cultural awareness. Furthermore, she has been pivotal in providing access to summer study abroad scholarships through the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), allowing students to immerse themselves in language and culture.
Dr. Sullivan holds a bachelor’s degree from Princeton University and completed her teaching master’s at the Stanford Teacher Education Master’s Program (STEP). She also earned a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from the University of San Diego, equipping her with a strong foundation in educational leadership and pedagogy. Her extensive academic background complements her teaching expertise, making her a dynamic advocate for language education.
A member of the CLTA since 2013, Dr. Sullivan will represent California in both regional and national recognitions as part of her role as Teacher of the Year. Her year of service, which will commence in early 2026, will include professional learning presentations, mentorship for fellow educators, and advocacy for world languages and multilingual learners. Through these efforts, she aims to elevate the importance of language education and support the development of future language educators.
For further details about the CLTA Teacher of the Year program and its impact on the language education community, individuals are encouraged to visit the organization’s official website.
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Additional Resources
- Coronado News: CUSD Educator Named 2026 California World Language Teacher of the Year
- Wikipedia: Language Education
- Coronado News: Emerald Keepers Internships Application Period Opens August 11
- Google Search: Coronado California
- Coronado Times: For Travel-Hungry Locals, Semester at Sea Beckons
- Google Scholar: Language Teacher of the Year
- Coronado News: Coronado Schools Awarded $2.3 Million World Language Grant
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Language Teaching
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
