Simone Wilkinson, who earned her Ed.D. in Education Leadership, Management and Policy from Seton Hall University in May 2025, has focused her dissertation on the educational experiences of Multilingual Learners (ML) in secondary schools. Her research examines how different types of English Learner programs and the length of time students are classified as MLs affect their English proficiency and promotion toward graduation.
In September, Wilkinson presented a version of her dissertation at the East Coast Organization of Language Testing (ECOLT) conference at Georgetown University. She first learned about ECOLT through bilingual and multilingual education networks when calls for proposals were announced last year.
Wilkinson described the conference as an opportunity to expand her research and connect with other professionals in the field. She noted that questions raised during the event helped identify areas for improvement in future presentations and reinforced her recognition as a researcher and educator.
“When things got hard, I doubted what I was doing was right,” Wilkinson said. “After seeking guidance from my professors and connecting with my cohort, I came to understand that the Seton Hall community genuinely wants to see its students succeed. Lean into your community and give yourself grace.”
Wilkinson expressed a strong sense of belonging at Seton Hall, crediting teamwork and connection within the university community. She acknowledged her dissertation advisor Jennifer Timmer, Ph.D., for ongoing support both during her studies and after graduation. Wilkinson also thanked Associate Professor David Reid, Ph.D., highlighting his teaching on Qualitative Research as instrumental in preparing her to address issues such as questioning assumptions and recognizing biases.
“I couldn’t have done it without the support of the Roosevelt Senior High School faculty and staff [where she is the Assistant Principal] and I am grateful to my family and husband who supported me in completing my research and watching my kids,” Wilkinson expressed.
Looking ahead, Wilkinson plans to continue working with Timmer and Reid on further research projects. She hopes to present at additional conferences such as those organized by the American Educational Research Association.
She has been accepted to present at the ACT Summit scheduled for July 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee. At this event, she intends to emphasize the importance of tailored English Learner program models and resource allocation within this year’s theme: Where Policy and Practice Meet Purpose.
