Researcher of the Year – Two-way Bilingual/Dual Language Immersion Criteria

    We are pleased to invite nominations – including self-nominations – for the Researcher of the Year in Two-Way Bilingual/Dual Language Immersion (TWBI/DLI) Award. This recognition honors scholars whose research has meaningfully advanced our understanding of bilingualism, biliteracy development, and effective dual language program models. Ideal nominees are those whose work strengthens classroom practice, informs policy, promotes equity for multilingual learners, and expands the field through impactful publications, presentations, and collaborative partnerships. If you know a researcher whose innovation, leadership, and service have shaped the future of dual language education, we encourage you to submit a nomination and help us celebrate their contributions to the TWBI/DLI community.

    1. Research Excellence in TWBI/DLI
    • Produces high-quality, peer-reviewed research focused on dual language immersion programs.
    • Demonstrates innovation in studying bilingualism, biliteracy development, language acquisition, or program models.
    • Advances theoretical or practical understanding of effective TWBI/DLI practices.
    1. Impact on Dual Language Education
    • Research has measurable influence on teaching practices, curriculum design, or policy decisions in TWBI/DLI.
    • Provides evidence-based strategies that improve student outcomes in bilingualism, biliteracy, and academic achievement.
    • Supports equity and access for multilingual learners, heritage speakers, and underrepresented groups.
    1. Publications & Knowledge Sharing
    • Publishes in respected journals, books, or reports in bilingual education and applied linguistics.
    • Presents findings at dual language/bilingual education conferences (e.g., ATDLE, NABE, CABE, La Cosecha, CAL).
    • Makes research accessible to practitioners, parents, and policymakers (e.g., briefs, workshops, community presentations).
    1. Collaboration & Leadership
    • Leads or participates in cross-institutional, district, or community-based TWBI/DLI research partnerships.
    • Mentors emerging scholars, graduate students, or teacher-researchers in bilingual/dual language education.
    • Contributes to professional organizations advancing bilingual and dual language immersion education.
    1. Innovation & Creativity
    • Evaluates existing models of TWBI/DLI implementation (e.g., 90:10, 50:50, two-way, developmental bilingual).
    • Introduces new assessment methods for biliteracy and bilingualism.
    • Applies culturally sustaining pedagogies in research design.
    1. Service to the TWBI/DLI Field
    • Serves as peer reviewer, editor, or advisor for bilingual education research outlets.
    • Advocates for policies supporting dual language programs and multilingual learners.
    • Contributes to the growth of TWBI/DLI research through workshops, technical assistance, or program evaluation.

    Please Note: The deadline for nominees to submit their completed applications is February 28, 2026.

    Click here to submit your application!

    Scoring Guide

    Scoring Guide

    • 26–30 = Exemplary Researcher of the Year
    • 21–25 = Strong Candidate
    • 16–20 = Developing Candidate
    • Below 16 = Limited Evidence

    Deadline for the application is February 28, 2026.

    Click Here For The Nomination Form!