About Us

A Practical Approach to Education

The EntreCulturas approach to education revolutionizes teacher preparation and professional development by prioritizing experiential learning, practical application, and continuous growth. We recognize that theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient to equip educators for the complexities of today's classrooms.

Our Story

Our story begins in the classroom, as educators we found a need for resources, experiences, and spaces to connect. We realized how isolating the classroom can be and the need for practical strategies, connecting discussions, and experiences that connect us to our purpose as educators. EntreCulturas was born from the excitement we got discussing our own experiences beyond the classroom and how much our different cultures informed our experiences as teachers and our connection to our students.

We are so happy to share this experience with you.

Meet the Team

Executive Director

Esly Rodriguez

As a proud first generation Latina, education and language are my passion. I have been an educator for more than I can remember as I have been so lucky to educate in many spaces. I most recently have been a Dual Language teacher in Chicago but also have had the opportunity to teach as a middle school English teacher in Mexico, and adult ESL. Teaching has provided me with the amazing opportunity to connect culturally, linguistically, and humanly with people from other parts of the world.

I hold a Bachelor’s in International Studies and Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies. I also hold a Master’s in Bilingual and Bicultural Education from DePaul University, a Master’s in Public Administration from University of Illinois at Chicago.

I am currently studying for my PhD in Education Leadership at DePaul University.

I currently live in Chicago with my husband and our 3 children. I love to travel the world and read books with a cup of coffee in my hand.

Director of Curriculum and Programming

Luisa Tabares-Betancur

My journey as a teacher started long ago when I decided I wanted to inspire new generations to be their best selves for the world we live in. I wholeheartedly believe in the power of education to transform lives. As a teacher, I have experienced multiple transformations as I grow with my students and learn from their cultures, their values, and their inquisitiveness to experience life. I also find joy in sharing my heritage with my students as I see how eager they are to learn about almost anything.

I hold a Bachelor’s in English as a second language, and a Master’s of Arts in Teaching in Early Childhood Education with endorsements in ESL and bilingual education. I teach in a bilingual classroom in Chicago.

I currently live in Chicago. I love to jog, read historical fiction, and spending time with my family and friends.

Director of Operations and Finance

Jorge Rodriguez

Learning and supporting educators is my passion. I have the privilege of living in Mexico, Colombia, and the US and in that time I have been able to connect with different cultures and found ways to elevate others. In my journey in different countries, I have found that education allowed me to explore new skills, improve what I knew, and connect with others.

I hold a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Universidad de Especialidades, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I have experience in various fields in business as well as in education. I have many years of experience supporting Special Education and Bilingual educators in Chicago.

I currently live in Chicago with my wife and 3 children. One of my favorite ways of learning is through DIY home projects and exploring new ways to improve our home. I also enjoy playing and watching fútbol.