UMass Postdoctorate Researcher Takes Senior Strategist Role at State Education Office of Language Acquisition

Elenita Irizarry Ramos, a postdoctoral research associate specializing in bilingual and dual language education, equity and inclusion in the College of Education, has joined the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Office of Language Acquisition (OLA) as a senior strategist for multilingual and dual language education.

Irizarry Ramos will play a pivotal role in shaping statewide policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing language acquisition and bilingual education programs. Her extensive research and practical experience in working with schools and educators will be invaluable in developing strategies that support language learners and foster a culture of inclusivity and equity in the educational system.

Irizarry Ramos has a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of bilingual education, and her appointment is expected to advance further the promotion of language diversity and inclusivity in Massachusetts schools. In her role as the Western Massachusetts Bilingual Hub (WMBH) coordinator, she has been actively involved in collaborating with the Amherst-Pelham Regional School District, Springfield and Holyoke public schools, and Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership to enhance bilingual education programs in the western Massachusetts area.

At UMass Amherst, Irizarry Ramos conducted valuable research on how the WMBH supports dual language educators in Spanish-English programs across the region. Her work has focused on documenting the effectiveness of educational initiatives and teaching practices that facilitate optimal learning outcomes for dual language educators, administrators, district leaders, and support staff.

“My time as a postdoc here at UMass, under the mentorship of Dr. Marialuisa Di Stefano, has been one of the highlights of my career,” Irizarry Ramos said. “I look forward to continuing to collaborate with her and colleagues at the college to make a lasting impact on multilingual learning. Together, we can ensure that all students have access to high-quality bilingual education and dual language programs that promote inclusivity and equity.”