Fatima Flores

I am a dedicated bilingual mathematics teacher with 14 years of experience empowering students through education. As a Latina who has navigated the challenges of language, culture, and social biases, I understand firsthand the transformative power of education. I am passionate about fostering intellectual growth in others. My journey into mathematics education has been shaped by resilience, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to advocating for students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

I encountered the dual challenge of learning academic content while acquiring English as a second language. These experiences instilled in me a deep empathy for English Language Learners (ELLs) and a determination to create equitable learning environments where all students feel valued, supported, and capable of academic success. My classroom celebrates diverse perspectives and encourages students to approach mathematical concepts with confidence and curiosity.

Throughout my career, I have sought to continuously improve my instructional practices to meet my students’ needs better. I believe learning is a lifelong journey, and I model this belief by actively seeking professional development opportunities and engaging in collaborative learning with my colleagues. My instructional approach incorporates culturally responsive practices that enhance mathematical understanding and affirm my students’ identities and lived experiences.

In addition to my classroom work, I am dedicated to advocating for systemic change that promotes equity and inclusion in education. I aspire to contribute to broader conversations on educational reform, particularly in bilingual mathematics education and support for ELLs. My goal is to help break down barriers to academic achievement and ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have access to high-quality mathematics education that empowers them to reach their full potential.

Related Professional Experience

I have experience teaching mathematics in multilingual classrooms, integrated co-teaching (ICT) classes, bilingual programs, STEM courses, and College Now classes.

• Masters of Science in Secondary Mathematics Education
• Bachelors in Secondary Mathematics Education
• Bilingual Certification
• School Building Leadership Certification

My research centers on promoting equity in mathematics education, specifically advocating for English Language Learners (ELLs) to access high-quality math instruction while enhancing their awareness of political and social issues. Grounded in a culturally responsive teaching framework, my study seeks to empower ELLs with the mathematical knowledge and critical consciousness essential for advocating for social justice.