For 16 years, Sara Mendez has been a cornerstone of Monmouth-Roseville’s English Language Development (ELD) program, guiding students from around the world as they navigate the complexities of a new language, culture, and education system. From her beginnings as a pull-out ESL teacher to her current role focused on eighth grade, Sara’s work has evolved alongside the district’s increasingly diverse student population.

“When I started, we had fewer than a dozen students, all Spanish speakers,” Sara recalls. “Now, we’re serving students who speak 25 different languages. It’s been incredible to watch our community grow and embrace this diversity.”

Sara’s career reflects her adaptability and dedication. After five years teaching second grade, she transitioned to focus on junior high, where her work is a mix of direct instruction and co-teaching in science, social studies, and math. “My role isn’t just about teaching English,” she explains. “It’s about helping students integrate into every part of the school experience—academics, social life, and extracurriculars.”

Her own bilingual background fuels her passion for supporting multilingual learners. Born to an immigrant father from Mexico, Sara grew up speaking Spanish at home but didn’t formally learn the language until high school and college. “Speaking Spanish at home is different from mastering it academically,” she says. “I had to unlearn some habits and refine my skills, much like my students are doing with English.”

Sara’s approach is rooted in empathy and encouragement. “Many students feel behind because they’re learning English, but I remind them they’re actually ahead,” she says. “Being bilingual—or even multilingual—is a superpower. It opens doors for college, careers, and connections across cultures.”

This belief is reinforced by programs like Illinois’ Seal of Biliteracy, which recognizes students fluent in English and another language. “The seal is more than a certificate—it’s a game changer,” Sara says. “It can earn students scholarships, waive college language requirements, and validate the hard work they’ve put into mastering multiple languages.”

The pride Sara takes in her students mirrors the pride the district feels for her. Last year, Sara received the Illinois State Board of Education’s “Those Who Excel” award for her contributions as a bilingual educator. “It was such a surprise,” she recalls. “I’ve always believed that doing your job well means people don’t notice—things just run smoothly. Being recognized for that was humbling.”

The recognition process was no small feat. After her colleagues nominated her, Sara completed a rigorous application, including essays, a resume, and recommendation letters. “It felt like applying to college all over again,” she laughs. The announcement itself came as a shock during a surprise Zoom meeting arranged by her administrators. “I was speechless,” she says. “It’s one of those moments that stays with you.”

Sara’s work extends beyond her classroom. She’s part of the Teach Plus Fellowship, an advocacy group shaping educational policy in Illinois. “It’s opened my eyes to how legislation impacts schools,” she says. “I’ve been able to advocate for initiatives like the Racism-Free Schools Act and teacher licensure reforms. It’s a new way to support students, beyond the day-to-day.”

For Sara, teaching is deeply personal. “You form relationships with students and their families that go beyond academics,” she says. “Whether it’s an IEP meeting, a behavior issue, or helping a parent navigate a phone call, you become a trusted resource.” She credits the district’s forward-thinking approach for creating an environment where every student can thrive. “Monmouth-Roseville is unmatched in its support,” she says. “The focus is always on lifting students up and helping them succeed.”

Her students, many of whom juggle multiple languages and cultures, inspire her daily. Sara recounts the story of a student who spoke Burmese, a tribal language, and English, along with some Malaysian after a stop in that country. “These kids are remarkable,” she says. “They bring so much to the table, and it’s a privilege to help them see their strengths.”

As she reflects on her career, Sara is grateful for the rich experiences her work has brought. “Every day is different, and every student teaches me something new,” she says. “Being part of their journey, watching them grow and succeed—that’s what makes this job so rewarding.”

From fostering inclusivity to shaping state policy, Sara Mendez is more than an educator—she’s a bridge builder, helping students connect their pasts to their futures and their cultures to their communities.