Jo Gusman grew up in a Spanish speaking farm-working family who experienced the challenges that non-English speakers face in the United States. Based on her childhood experiences as a "limited English speaker," Jo Gusman truly understands the complexities and multiple variables that surround the English language learner. Jo Gusman began her teaching career in 1974 as a bilingual instructional assistant, and later attended California State University, Sacramento where she received her Bilingual Cross-Cultural teaching credential and Masters.

Jo Gusman was a Bilingual Education teacher for many years, and in 1981 her career led her to the nationally known Newcomer School, where she worked in a multilingual setting with refugee and immigrant K-8 students. It is there where Jo Gusman developed her many brain-based ESL strategies. Because of her extensive experience and exceptional work with English language learners, she has been featured on national television, and is the recipient of numerous awards, including President Ronald Reagan's recognition for teaching excellence. Presently, Jo Gusman provides educators, students, parents, and policy makers with professional development language and literacy seminars throughout the world.

Hispanic Heritage, Diversity, Diversity Topics