Gabriela Velazquez

Affiliation

Naperville District 203

Biography

I began my teaching career in Mexico as an English teacher for grades 1 through 6. Over 20 years ago, I moved to the United States and joined Schaumburg School District 54, teaching in a self-contained English Learner classroom for grades 2–6. Two years later, I transitioned to teaching in a 2nd grade Dual Language classroom, and shortly after, I was invited to serve as the district’s Dual Language Coach. In that role, I provided instructional support for six years. Eleven years ago, I joined Naperville School District 203 as the Dual Language Coordinator, where I led program development and teacher collaboration. I later transitioned to the role of English Learner Coordinator for Early Childhood and Elementary, serving in that position for three years. Currently, I serve as the English Learner Coordinator for Junior High and High School. In this role, I support secondary educators in building inclusive and academically rigorous environments for multilingual learners. Throughout my career, I have worked collaboratively with teachers to deepen instructional practices and foster meaningful learning experiences for English Learners across grade levels.