Meet Our New NJTESOL/NJBE Executive Board Members
Jessica Duran, Secondary Bilingual SIG
I am a seasoned educator with 12 years of experience in K-12 education, specializing in Bilingual and ESL instruction. Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to supporting multilingual students, with a particular focus on Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFEs) at the secondary level. My educational background includes a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, along with certifications in Bilingual Education, ESL, and middle school History.
This year marks my first as a member of NJTESOL-NJBE, where I am honored to serve on the Executive Board as the Bilingual Secondary Special Interest Group Representative. I am eager to collaborate with the esteemed members of NJTESOL-NJBE, whose advocacy efforts empower multilingual students to have their voices heard.
Veronica Murillo, ESL/Bilingual PreK-K SIG
I have been dedicated to early childhood education since 2004, beginning my teaching career in Newark and now working in Irvington. Since 2014, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a Preschool Instructional Coach for the Office of Early Childhood. In this role, I mentor, coach, and provide professional development to teachers, with a focus on bilingual/ESL best practices and early childhood education.
I hold a BA in Psychology and Early Childhood from New Jersey City University and continued my education at Walden University and Montclair State University. I’m certified in ESL, bilingual education, P-3, K-5, and as a supervisor. My passion lies in supporting both teachers and families, whether it’s mentoring Prek or Kindergarten teachers or helping families in the registration office.
For 10 years, I was honored to serve as the President of NJAKE. Now, I’m proud to be a part of NJTESOL as the representative for ESL/Bilingual PreK-K, continuing my commitment to fostering a nurturing and inclusive educational environment for all.
(See more new Executive Board Members below.)
With over 22 years of experience as an educator, I have dedicated my career to supporting MLLs across various age groups, with a particular focus on Adult Education and High School levels. My work has primarily centered on helping these learners achieve their goals through effective language acquisition, building their confidence, and encouraging their personal development. I hold a Master’s degree in TESOL from Shenandoah University, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Adult ESL and Literacy. For more than a decade, I have been teaching ESL at Rowan College of South Jersey’s Gloucester County Campus, and I’ve been involved in K-12 education since 2003. This year, I am thrilled to be joining the team at Willingboro High School, where I look forward to continuing my work with diverse student populations.
Supervisor of ESL, Bilingual, & World Language Education for Irvington Public Schools
I have been a teacher of MLs at the high school level for nine years, with a focus on Newcomers, and those preparing to exit our school’s program. Born and raised in New Jersey, I truly believe that our state provides amazing educational opportunities for all its students, and I am proud to be a part of it. As the ESL Secondary Rep, I hope to connect educators with one another, and promote the spread of knowledge and resources. I am especially passionate about MLs successes in challenging content areas — such as math and science. When I am not teaching, I can be seen walking my two crazy dogs (which all of my students know I talk about way too much)!
