Congratulations to CLTA Teacher of the Year 2026
Dr. Maylén Sullivan
Dr. Maylén Sullivan is a K-12 World Languages curriculum specialist and teacher in the San Diego area with 15 years of experience. She has also served for a decade in leadership roles as a team leader and induction mentor. Maylén recently completed her PhD in Leadership Studies with a focus on leadership coaching and works as a professional development consultant. Originally from Cuba, she enjoys spending time in nature and at the beach with her family.
Each year the Awards Committee chooses a truly extraordinary world language and culture educator who will participate in the Teacher of the Year program. The CLTA TOY first competes at the regional level at the Southwest Conference on Language Teaching (SWCOLT) which is held annually in one of the member states. The winner of the Regional Level goes on to the American Conference on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) level, held at the annual ACTFL Convention & Expo at one of the member states. CLTA TOYs are self nominated from former and current Outstanding Teachers and Teacher Leaders, and others who demonstrate the qualities most likely to be recognized at the Regional and National levels. The winner must submit a professional portfolio, including video, and participate in a rigorous interview process on both levels.
2026 TOY applications are now closed.
The Teacher of the Year Resource Guide is now live on the Language Connects Foundation site and can be found here: Teacher of the Year Resource Guide -… | Language Connects Foundation.
In this guide you can find best practices, templates, and updates for the National Language Teacher of the Year process.