Giselle Martinez Negrette

Giselle Martinez Negrette is an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champagne, affiliated with the College of Education and the Department of Curriculum & Instruction. Her work bridges Bilingual Education, Sociolinguistics, and Social Justice in educational contexts.

• Education: Ph.D. in Bilingual Education & ESL (University of Wisconsin-Madison), MA in Bilingual Education and TESOL (New Mexico State University), BA in Modern Languages Teaching (Universidad del Atlántico)

Her research examines how emergent bilinguals navigate language-race-class intersections in dual language immersion (DLI) programs. Using qualitative ethnography and raciolinguistic frameworks, she uncovers how social constructions shape early childhood bilingual experiences globally.

Recent publications analyze language ideologies in DLI programs, student resistance in racialized spaces, and the globalization of multilingualism. Her work highlights tensions between program goals and systemic inequities.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Outstanding Dissertation Award - Honorable Mention
  • 2020 NAEd/Spencer Foundation Fellowship
  • Excellence in Engaged Scholarship Graduate Award
  • Zillman Summer Research Award
  • Future Faculty Fellow
  • TESOL Professional Development Scholarship
  • Graduate School Honors Award

Nationally recognized for her scholarship, Dr. Martinez Negrette has secured grants from the National Academy of Education/Spencer Foundation and other prestigious organizations. Her teaching includes courses on bilingual education foundations and culturally responsive assessment practices.