Alan Llavore | Office of Marketing and Communication | (909) 537-5007 | allavore@csusb.edu
Lady Caterine Guillen's journey to becoming a bilingual educator has earned her one of the James R. Watson and Judy Rodriguez Watson College of Education's highest recognitions for future teachers.
Guillen received the 2026 Outstanding Spanish Bilingual Authorization Student Award, an honor recognizing her academic achievement and commitment to advancing bilingual education and supporting multilingual learners in California's K-12 schools.
Reflecting on the award, Guillen said, “My credential is earned, but my dreams and my impact are just beginning.”
The recognition reflects the mission of the college’s Bilingual Authorization (BIAU) program, which prepares teacher candidates with the linguistic, cultural and instructional skills needed to serve increasingly diverse classrooms. Guillen was honored during the college's annual Credential Ceremony in May.
“Caterine exemplifies excellence in bilingual teaching through a deep commitment to linguistic equity and cultural proficiency,” said Jordi Solsona-Puig, bilingual coordinator and assistant professor of education. “The future of bilingual education is safe in your hands and in the hands of an increasing number of teacher candidates who choose to go the extra mile to become better teachers for our students. Their commitment strengthens the identities, families and communities of our multilingual learners while advancing the values of bilingualism and biliteracy.”
As schools continue to face teacher shortages and changes in federal education policy, the Watson College of Education remains committed to preparing bilingual teachers.
The Spanish Bilingual Authorization program equips aspiring educators with the linguistic, cultural and instructional competencies needed to deliver high-quality bilingual instruction in diverse classrooms.
The program emphasizes culturally proficient teaching and collaboration with families and communities. It also provides targeted professional development, hosts the annual Dual Immersion Symposium, and continues to develop new pathways that support bilingual teacher candidates.