Cynthia Faulkner is an adult education expert with experience in language instruction, program and educational leadership, instructional design, and professional development. For over 16 years, she has worked to improve the quality and equity of adult learning. She specializes in supporting adult educators in meeting professional standards for teaching English language learners, using culturally responsive teaching methods, employing effective assessment strategies, and understanding the components of second language acquisition.
As a professional development specialist for EDC’s SABES ESOL Curriculum and Professional Development Center, Faulkner develops and delivers professional learning for adult ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) educators across Massachusetts. For over 10 years, as a Center consultant, she provided statewide face-to-face and virtual trainings, individualized coaching, and follow-up support. Earlier in her career, she was a teacher, student advisor, and program director.
Faulkner has a BA in Sociology from Wellesley College and has completed coursework toward an MA in Applied Linguistics from Teachers College, Columbia University. She holds an American TESOL Institute certification. She is fluent in Spanish and proficient in Portuguese.