Jennifer Larson

Vice President

Curent Role/Institution

Jennifer Larson currently serves as the Director of English Language Development for the Litchfield Elementary School District, where she leads districtwide efforts to support multilingual learners.

Professional Background

Jennifer has spent over two decades in education dedicated to supporting multilingual learners across Arizona. She leads a passionate team committed to implementing innovative, research-based strategies that enhance language development and improve academic outcomes for multilingual learners. Collaboration is at the heart of her work, and she focuses on building strong partnerships with educators, families, and community stakeholders to create inclusive learning environments.

She is the founder of an EL Collaborative serving Central and West Valley districts, supporting them in developing ELD programs and improving instructional practices. Jen has also provided ELD professional development at numerous state conferences for the Arizona Department of Education and AZTESOL, helping educators strengthen instruction and support multilingual learners across the state. In addition, she designs ELD curriculum and develops formative assessments to monitor and advance student progress.

Beyond her district role, Jen has contributed extensively to statewide initiatives that strengthen English Language Development programs. She has served on multiple Arizona Department of Education committees, including the Arizona English Language Proficiency Standards Committee, the EL Advisory Council, and the development and review of AZELLA assessments.

Areas of Expertise/Interests

  • English Language Development program design and implementation
  • ELD curriculum design
  • ELD formative assessment design
  • Science of Reading and multilingual learners
  • Structured English Immersion
  • Alignment of language and content instruction
  • Professional learning
  • Instructional leadership
  • Statewide policy
  • Standards development

AZTESOL Involvement

As an AZTESOL board member, Jen is committed to advancing high-quality instruction for English learners across Arizona. Her goals include supporting educators through collaboration, advocacy, and professional learning while strengthening connections between district, state, and classroom-level practices.

Personal Note

Jen is deeply committed to empowering multilingual learners to reach proficiency and beyond. She continues to be inspired by the growth, resilience, and potential of the students and educators she serves.