Dr. Francheska Figueroa
Past President
Dr. Francheska Figueroa – Past President
Current Role / Institution
Postdoctoral Research Scholar, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College – Teaching and Learning Innovation, Arizona State University
Academic and Professional Background
Dr. Francheska Figueroa is a postdoctoral research scholar whose work centers on advancing equitable education for all learners through teacher preparation and professional development. Her academic background is rooted in second language acquisition, with a particular focus on sheltered instruction.
As a former high school English Language Development (ELD) instructor, she has extensive experience working with diverse multilingual learners. Dr. Figueroa has also contributed to the private sector as a national faculty member for the Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) Model, supporting educators nationwide in implementing effective instructional practices. She continues to advocate for teachers and students through ongoing research that addresses the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
Areas of Expertise / Interests
- Equitable and inclusive education
- Teacher preparation and professional development
- Second language acquisition
- Sheltered instruction and the SIOP Model
- Culturally and linguistically responsive pedagogy
AZTESOL Involvement
As Past President, Dr. Figueroa has provided strategic leadership and continuity for the organization. Her contributions include:
-
Advancing initiatives that support equitable education and multilingual learner advocacy
-
Strengthening AZTESOL’s professional development offerings
-
Fostering collaboration across K–12, higher education, and community partners