Learning about students' cultures allows for deeper learning and improved disciplinary practices. Culturally competent educators learn about and research their students' cultures. This knowledge helps to understand student behavior as well as their ways of doing things. Secondly, culturally competent educators help students link new learning to prior knowledge and experiences.

Adama Sallu, EdD, Director of Equity and Inclusion
Chandler Unified School District

Dr. Adama Sallu currently serves as the Director of Equity and Inclusion for the Chandler Unified School District. She has experience providing leadership in K-12 education, and her work focuses on educational equity, culturally responsive teaching, and inclusive practices in schools.

She received her doctorate in educational administration and supervision from Arizona State University, master’s in educational leadership/principal certification from Northern Arizona University, master’s in clinical social work from Smith College in Northampton Massachusetts, and a Bachelor of Liberal Arts from Our Lady of the Elms in Chicopee Massachusetts.

Thuy Padilla, EdD, Faculty Associate
Mary Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University

Dr. Thuy Padilla brings over 20 years of experience in education and a passion for designing future-ready learning systems that prioritizes equity through asset-based pedagogies. Drawing from her experience as a School Administrator in both Elementary and Junior High, along with various district instructional roles, she is focused on offering asset-based pathways for students to access innovative, high-quality education. She obtained her Doctorate from Arizona State University and also teaches graduate courses to aspiring school leaders at The Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at ASU.