2025-2027 EAC Spotlight: Avelira Rodríguez González

This fall, Advance Illinois welcomed the 2025-2027 Educator Advisory Council (EAC) cohort, bringing together educators across early childhood to postsecondary, representing the diversity across Illinois. In the next two years, they will deepen their policy knowledge, explore the root causes of the disparities we see in education, and take action together through advocacy efforts including legislative testimony, writing op-eds, and organizing their peers. As part of the 2025-2027 EAC Cohort Spotlight series, we look forward to introducing each member and highlighting their journeys as educators and the experiences they bring to this space.

Introducing: Avelira Rodríguez González, Principal

Tell us a little about your teaching journey — what subjects, grades, or communities have you served? 

Currently, I serve as the first Latina Principal at Elgin High School, located in the second largest district in the state of Illinois, U-46. Prior to that, I served at Alternative/Optional Education Center (AOEC) in Waukegan. Previously, I served as the first Latina Principal at Waukegan High School, Brookside Campus. WHS is the second largest high school in the state of Illinois. Prior to this assignment, I served as the Assistant Principal at Dr. Bessie Rhodes School of Global Studies in District 65. Before this opportunity, I served as the Assistant Principal for Student Services at Technology Center of DuPage in Addison, Illinois. Prior to this, I served at Glenbard East High School as the Dean of Students, Summer School Principal, Equity Coordinator, SIT Team and Attendance PLC Facilitator. Previously, I served as the Human Resources Coordinator for Proviso Township High School District 209 where I served for 4 years. The first 2 as the Dean of Students and the remaining as the Teacher Recruiter/Mentor, Induction and Human Resources Coordinator. Finally, I have served as a Dean of Students in both the Middle and High School levels.

I bring over 18 years of administrative experience to the table in a variety of richly diverse settings. Throughout my educational career, I have assumed many leadership roles. I have had the opportunity to teach Special Education Self-Contained as well as English for Speakers of Other Languages (ELL) in both elementary and secondary levels.  

What are some challenges or opportunities you see in education today that motivate your work?

As a Latina leader it is my responsibility to call out obstacles that currently exist for all educators and students nationwide and replace them with opportunities for others to excel without obstacles. 

How does being part of the EAC connect to your goals or passions as an educator? 

This is a unique opportunity to collaborate and bring change with others that are like-minded. 

Can you share an example of a time you advocated for your students, school, or community? 

Our students, school, and community need voices that are loud and purposeful. Our students currently are living uncertain times, inequities based on citizenship, sexual orientation, and race. It is time to speak with intent and purpose to bring about immediate and sustainable change.

What advice would you give students to help them stay inspired? 

"Gentle pressure relentlessly applied"

Learn more about the Educator Advisory Council here.