Pamela Schwallier

Affiliation

West Ottawa Public Schools

Biography

Dr. Pam Schwallier currently serves as Director of EL & Bilingual Programs at West Ottawa Public Schools in Holland, MI. Prior to this role, Pam was a Regional English Learner (EL) Consultant in West Michigan. She completed her PhD in Educational Leadership from WMU with her research focusing on K-12 schools’ civil rights obligations to English Learners. Additionally, Pam earned her Specialist in Education (EdS) in Educational Leadership, her MA in TESOL, and her BS in Elementary Education with a Spanish major. Prior to Pam’s work as an EL Consultant, she spent 10 years in elementary and secondary classrooms as a 4th grade general education teacher, middle school Spanish teacher, and EL educator serving students with all levels of English proficiency, including newcomers through highly-proficient, long-term ELs. Pam also serves on the MDE EL Advisory and has presented on various topics related to EL & bilingual education at local, state, and national events. Pam's dedication to educational equity, passion for serving culturally and linguistically diverse students and families, and vast experience working alongside students and educators in multiple capacities has allowed her to become a respected leader in the field.