Laurel Castilla is a lifelong educator with a deep commitment to supporting language learners and advancing educational equity. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Education with secondary certification, a Master’s in Teaching English as a Second Language, and a Post-Master’s K–12 Reading Specialist endorsement. Throughout her career, Laurel has taught K–12 ESL, Spanish in grades 6–12, and adult learners in intensive language institutes. She also spent four years teaching at the university level in Mexico and has taught in diverse contexts across Illinois, California, Indiana, Kansas, and North Carolina.
Her professional passions include advocating for equitable school funding, championing English language learners, and strengthening teacher preparation and retention. Since June 2023, Laurel has served as an Instructional Specialist with Participate Learning. In this role, she provides instructional coaching, logistical guidance, and programmatic support for Ambassador Teachers, helping ensure their smooth transition into new school communities and ongoing professional success. Laurel values collaboration and strives to empower both teachers and students to thrive in culturally and linguistically diverse classrooms. She lives in Greensboro with her husband and three children.