Adelante Charter School educator Erika Ruiz Santillán has been named the 2026 Teacher of the Year by the California Association for Bilingual Education (CABE), recognizing her leadership and impact in bilingual education.
Ruiz Santillán received the recognition in San Francisco at CABE’s annual conference, which celebrates educators across the state who advance multilingual learning and student success.
She has been teaching for 16 years, beginning her career in 2009 at César Chávez Charter School, a dual-language immersion school located just blocks from her childhood home that later became Adelante Charter School.
Over the years, she has mentored new educators, served on the school’s leadership team, and supported generations of students as they develop bilingual and biliterate skills while celebrating their cultures.
“Watching my students learn in two languages and feel proud of their languages and cultures reminds me every day why this work is so meaningful,” Ruiz Santillán said. “Seeing them believe in themselves and celebrate who they are is the reason I do this work.”
Ruiz Santillán said her own experiences shape her approach in the classroom.
“Growing up as the daughter of immigrant parents, a former English learner, and a first-generation college student, I understand firsthand the powerful impact bilingualism can have on academic growth and self-confidence,” she said.
“These experiences guide me to honor my students’ identities, languages, and lived experiences,” she said.
Her recognition comes during a period of strong academic progress at Adelante Charter School. Over the past two years, the school has seen increases in student test scores, including improvements in English language arts, mathematics, and outcomes for English learners.
In February 2025, Adelante was also named a California Distinguished School, one of the state’s highest honors for public schools.
Adelante director Bolivar said the award reflects the strength of the school community.
“The last two years at Adelante Charter School have been nothing short of inspiring,” Bolivar said. “Through the dedication of our students, families, teachers, and staff, our school has experienced remarkable academic growth and well-deserved recognition.
“Erika’s honor highlights the passion and commitment our educators bring to students every day.”
Ruiz Santillán said the recognition reflects the broader Adelante community.
“This recognition truly belongs to our entire Adelante community,” she said. “From our educators and staff to our families, it takes a collective effort to support our students’ success and celebrate their languages, cultures, and academic achievements.”
Adelante Charter School is a public charter school in Santa Barbara City focused on academic excellence and bilingual education, helping students become bilingual and biliterate in Spanish and English.
The California Association for Bilingual Education (CABE) is a nonprofit organization that promotes bilingual education and educational equity for culturally and linguistically diverse students across California.