Rhianna Casesa

Rhianna Casesa is an Associate Professor in the Department of Literacy Studies and Elementary Education at Sonoma State University (SSU), where she has served since 2015. She also holds key roles as the Residency Coordinator, advisor for the MA in Education and Reading Language Arts Authorization (RLAA), and Multiple Subject Credential Program advisor. Her work bridges research, teaching, and community engagement in bilingual and literacy education.

Education:

• PhD: Joint Doctoral Program, San Diego State University & Claremont Graduate University
• MA (Education): San Diego State University
• BCLAD: San Diego State University
• BS (Psychology): Santa Clara University
• BA (Spanish): Santa Clara University

Dr. Casesa's research centers on biliteracy instruction, dual-language education, and the development of bicultural identity among Latinx students. She investigates how emergent bilinguals navigate identity in English-only and two-way immersion programs, emphasizing equity and culturally sustaining pedagogies. Her work also explores visual and multimodal methods—such as student photography and graphic novels—as tools for literacy and identity expression in classrooms.

Her recent publications and presentations reveal a consistent focus on teacher preparation, bilingual education, and identity development. She frequently presents at major education conferences including AERA, CABE, and LRA, highlighting innovative strategies for supporting bilingual learners and future educators. Her scholarship integrates critical pedagogy with practical classroom applications.

Scientific Awards and Grants:

• Co-PI/Project Director, Preparing Underrepresented Educators to Realize their Teaching Ambitions (PUERTA) grant

Dr. Casesa advises multiple academic programs and has been instrumental in developing teacher pathways through residency models and university-school partnerships. She has secured grant funding to support underrepresented aspiring bilingual educators. While no specific lab or research team is mentioned, her collaborative projects suggest active involvement in research networks focused on equity in teacher education and bilingual development.