Marina Vinitskaya has been serving as a Resource Specialist for the NYS RBERN at New York University since 2020. She delivers training for ENL, Bilingual, World Language, and subject area teachers. Marina leads the Russian World Language Professional Learning Series (PLS) and provides professional development for Russian Dual Language Programs. Furthermore, she supports both teachers and parents of multilingual learners by providing support on guiding them through the NYC DOE and NYS Department of Education programs. Marina is a regular guest and presenter on the Russian Television Network and Davison Radio, where she addresses important topics such as public education, the NYC Department of Education initiatives for immigrant students. With over 25 years of experience within the NYC Department of Education (DOE), Marina has held various positions, including ESL teacher, Regional Instructional Support Specialist (RIS), and high school principal. In her role as a RIS, she was tasked with overseeing compliance and instructional programs for English Language Learners (ELLs), as well as Bilingual and Dual Language programs. Marina provided support to Superintendents and their network of schools in areas of compliance, staff development, and instructional quality. As the founding principal of a high school, her leadership resulted in significant achievements for ELLs, earning recognition that led to features in Stanford University’s research publications in 2015 and 2016, as well as in Columbia University Press in 2018. These publications highlighted her school’s comprehensive language development framework that effectively integrated content, analytical practices, assessment strategies, and social-emotional support for students and their families. Additionally, Marina served as a coach for new assistant principals and principals through the NYC DOE Leadership Program and the Wallace Foundation. In acknowledgment of her valuable contributions to education, Marina Vinitskaya was recognized as a noteworthy educator by State Senator Kevin S. Parker in the years 2007, 2008, 2015, 2016, and 2017. She serves as a presenter at both the NYSABE and NABE conferences, captivating audiences with her insights and expertise.
