Elba Llantin-Cruz

Affiliation

Cantando y Jugando

Biography

Elba is a passionate educator and musical artist who aspires to elevate the educational experiences of every student, but especially students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Elba has been teaching for over 26 years in various teaching positions from Grades K through 8 and has incorporated creativity, the arts, and interdisciplinary, project-based learning. She has held administrative roles within the areas of multilingual learners and equity. In her current role, Elba uses her extensive educator experience to provide professional learning, coaching, and consulting to educators and leaders around the state of Connecticut in the areas of multilingual learners, social studies, and equity. She also serves as the chairperson for the Connecticut Association of Biliteracy and Bicultural Education (CABBE). Finally, Elba developed a program called, Cantando y Jugando, to promote cultural identity, bilingualism (i.e., Spanish/English), social interaction, and fun through songs! She showcases traditional and original songs and games from her Puerto Rican heritage at festivals, libraries, and schools. Elba received a Bachelor of Science degree in sociology from Southern Connecticut State University, a Master of Arts in teaching, and a 6th Year Certificate of Advanced Study in SEAL (Social, Emotional, and Academic Learning) and Social Justice Leadership from Sacred Heart University. She has multiple cross-endorsements in Elementary Education, TESOL, Middle School Social Studies, Bilingual Elementary, and Bilingual Middle School Social Studies. Elba is currently focusing on research related to equity, multilingual learners, and literacy as part of the Ed.D. Educational Leadership program at Sacred Heart University.