2025-2027 EAC Spotlight: Sofia Gonzalez
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: Sofia Gonzalez, English Teacher
Tell us a little about your teaching journey — what subjects, grades, or communities have you served?
I am a veteran educator who has dedicated her career to serving students in high-needs communities on Chicago’s west side. Over nearly two decades in the classroom, I have taught high school English while centering culturally responsive teaching, critical thinking, and student voice. A passionate advocate for educational equity, I champion policy reform that supports English Learners and works to strengthen a diverse teacher pipeline. The impact extends beyond the classroom through national and international speaking and education advocacy. In 2019, I was honored as the National Teacher of the Year by the National Society of High School Scholars. At the heart of my journey is a deep belief that every child deserves access to a powerful, liberating education.
What are some challenges or opportunities you see in education today that motivate your work?
One of the greatest challenges in education today is the widening opportunity gap that continues to impact students in under-resourced communities, particularly English Learners and students of color. At the same time, this moment presents an opportunity to reimagine education by elevating student voice, investing in culturally responsive teaching, and strengthening a diverse teacher pipeline that reflects the communities we serve. My work is motivated by the belief that meaningful policy reform and educator leadership can transform schools into spaces where every student is seen, valued, and equipped to thrive and where representation is centered and not an afterthought.
How does being part of the EAC connect to your goals or passions as an educator?
Being part of the EAC aligns deeply with my commitment to advancing educational equity and shaping policy that better serves our most vulnerable students. As a Latina and the daughter of immigrants, this work is deeply personal. I see my own family and story reflected in the students and communities I serve, particularly English Learners and those navigating systems not always designed with them in mind. The EAC provides a powerful opportunity to collaborate with fellow educators, bring practitioner insight into policy conversations, and help advance solutions that strengthen opportunity, representation, and access for all learners.
Can you share an example of a time you advocated for your students, school, or community?
One powerful example of advocacy in my work is participating in Illinois Advocacy Day in Springfield, where, with the help and training of Advance Illinois—a natural and powerful partnership with work I was already engaged in—I met directly with elected officials to discuss policies that impact our schools and students, particularly those in under-resourced communities and English Learners. Beyond advocating myself, I believe deeply in empowering young people to find their own voice. I have supported and prepared my students to travel to Springfield as well, where they have the opportunity to speak with legislators and advocate for issues that affect their education and future. Seeing students recognize their power and agency in civic spaces is one of the most meaningful outcomes of this work.
What advice would you give students to help them stay inspired?
Stay curious, stay courageous, and never underestimate the power of your voice. The world will sometimes try to tell you who you are and what you’re capable of—but you don’t have to accept those limits. Ask questions, challenge what doesn’t feel right, and surround yourself with people who remind you of your purpose. Your story, your culture, and your perspective are not obstacles—they are your power. Use them to open doors not just for yourself, but for those coming behind you. Truly, you are your ancestor's wildest dreams.
Learn more about the Educator Advisory Council here.