Uniondale's Xiomara Flowers named New York State Bilingual Education Teacher of the Year

In the bustling halls of Northern Parkway Elementary School, Xiomara Flowers stands as a shining example of dedication, passion, and excellence in the realm of bilingual education. Her recent recognition as the New York State Bilingual Education Teacher of the Year is not just another accomplishment for her, it is a testament to her unwavering commitment to nurturing multilingual learners and fostering a culture of academic achievement and linguistic proficiency.

For over two decades, Flowers has been an integral part of the Uniondale School District, weaving a tapestry of inspiration and empowerment through her pedagogical prowess and genuine care for her students. Her journey in education began with a simple yet profound belief – that every child, regardless of background or linguistic heritage, deserves access to quality education that celebrates diversity and cultivates success.

Flowers deep appreciation for language and cultural exchange allows her to help students understand the value of bilingualism and biliteracy, which has become the cornerstone of her teaching philosophy and drives her to create inclusive and immersive learning environments where students could thrive academically and linguistically.

“Xiomara Flowers embodies the spirit of educational excellence and commitment to bilingual education,” said Monique Darrisaw-Akil, superintendent of the Uniondale School District. “Her tireless efforts to enrich the lives of our multilingual learners have transformed our school and set an impressive benchmark for what it means to advocate for bilingual and biliterate education. We are incredibly proud of her achievement."

At the heart of Flowers' teaching approach lies a blend of empathy, creativity, and innovation. She understands that language is not just a tool for communication but a gateway to understanding and embracing different perspectives and experiences. Her classrooms are vibrant spaces where English Language Learners and native English speakers come together to learn collaboratively, breaking down linguistic barriers and building bridges of cultural understanding.

“Since joining the Uniondale School District in 1999, Ms. Flowers has exemplified outstanding pedagogical practices, inspiring students to achieve both academic excellence and proficiency in multiple languages,” said the school district in a statement. “Her advocacy extends beyond the classroom, making her a distinguished figure in the field of bilingual education.”

Flowers' impact extends far beyond lesson plans and curriculum objectives. She is a mentor, a role model, and a source of unwavering support for her students. Whether it's helping a newcomer navigate the nuances of a new language or encouraging a shy student to share their unique voice, she goes above and beyond to ensure that every child feels valued, heard, and empowered to reach their full potential.

One of Flowers' greatest strengths lies in her ability to personalize learning experiences to meet the diverse needs of her students. She embraces pedagogical approaches to education, integrating language acquisition with real-world applications, cultural immersion, and socio-emotional learning. Her classroom is a microcosm of the global community, where students not only master language skills but also develop critical thinking, collaboration, and global citizenship.

Outside the classroom, Flowers is a tireless advocate for bilingual education and cultural diversity. She collaborates with parents, community organizations, and fellow educators to promote inclusive practices and create opportunities for cross-cultural exchange. Her efforts have not only enriched the educational landscape of Uniondale but have also garnered recognition and respect at the state level.

As Flowers prepares to receive the New York State Bilingual Education Teacher of the Year award at the upcoming The New York State Association for Bilingual Education Conference, her journey serves as an inspiration to educators all over Long Island and New York as a whole. Her story reminds us that true excellence in education is not measured solely by test scores or accolades, but by the profound impact we have on shaping young minds, nurturing their talents, and instilling in them a lifelong love for learning and linguistic diversity.

In honoring Xiomara Flowers, the community celebrates not just an exceptional teacher but also a beacon of hope, resilience, and inclusivity in the ever-evolving landscape of bilingual education.