Jennifer Canillas

Jennifer Canillas serves as Chair of the M.A. in P-12 Multilingual, Multicultural Education program and holds the academic rank of Associate Professor at the School of Education, Biola University. Her career spans roles as a classroom teacher, District ELD Coach, Program Specialist for English Learner Programs, and gifted education advocate. She mentors pre-service and in-service teachers, emphasizing educational equity, strengths-based pedagogy, and culturally responsive practices.

• Degrees: Ph.D. in Education, Society, and Culture from University of California Riverside; M.A. in Applied Linguistics with TESOL certificate from Biola University; B.A. from Bethel College.

Her research focuses on second language acquisition, multilingual learners, multicultural education, and gifted education, often integrating technology and asset-based frameworks. Publications and presentations address translanguaging, identity formation for English learners, and collaborative teaching strategies.

Canillas actively contributes to professional associations including AERA, CABE, CATESOL, and NABE. Her recent work explores spiritual capital and linguistic resources in educational contexts, reflecting her commitment to equity and holistic student development.