Sybil P Sánchez Jácome
Sybil Sanchez Jácome is a distinguished Spanish and ESL educator, instructional leader, and cultural advocate based in Randolph, New Jersey. With more than 25 years of experience in education, she currently serves as a high school Spanish teacher, where she designs and delivers a diverse curriculum that includes AP Spanish Literature and Culture, Spanish for Heritage Speakers, and film-based language courses. Originally from Ecuador, Sybil began her U.S. teaching career through the Visiting International Faculty Program, bringing her expertise in English as a Second Language to address critical teacher shortages. Over time, she has become a leader in curriculum development, oral proficiency assessment, and culturally responsive teaching practices that empower multilingual learners. Throughout her career, Sybil has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing world language education and supporting student success. She has developed and implemented innovative programs across multiple school districts, including district-wide transition initiatives and virtual ESL instruction for underserved communities. At Randolph High School, she not only teaches but also advises the Spanish Honor Society, fostering student leadership and cultural engagement. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom through her work as a mentor teacher, translator, tutor, and AAPPL Certified Rater, as well as her involvement in professional organizations such as the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (AATSP) and the Fellowship Language Educators of New Jersey (FLENJ). A recognized leader in her field, Sybil currently serves as the 2026 President-Elect of AATSP and previously held roles including New Jersey Chapter President and Secondary Representative on the national board. She is a frequent presenter at international conferences, sharing best practices on teaching Spanish language and culture through literature, film, and music. Her excellence in teaching has earned her numerous honors, including the 2025 FLENJ Teacher of the Year award and a prestigious study abroad scholarship in Spain. Guided by the belief that language is a gateway to identity and global understanding, Sybil continues to inspire students and educators alike through her passion, leadership, and dedication to educational equity.
• AP Spanish Literature & Culture Reader
• Oral Proficiency Interview
• Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS)
• AAPPL Certified Rater
• ESL Certified Teacher
• Spanish Certified Teacher
• Universidad de Salamanca - M.A.
• Universidad Laica Vicente Rocafuerte - BA Ed
• New Jersey Teacher of the Year
• Global Service Award from United Planet
• 2025 FLENJ Teacher of the Year
• 2015 NSE Study Abroad Scholarship
• American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (AATSP)
• ACTFL
• Visiting International Faculty Program
• Fellowship of Language Educators of New Jersey
• NJEA
• ESL Program Coordinator and Food Pantry Volunteer at Hope's Table in Wharton (4-5 years)
• Spanish Honor Society Advisor (organizing cultural activities and student support programs)
• American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (New Jersey Chapter)
• American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (2025 Chapter of the Year)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the journey I’ve taken and the incredible people who have supported me along the way. Arriving in the U.S. as an exchange teacher from Ecuador, I embraced the role of cultural ambassador and discovered my passion for teaching language and culture—because language is identity, not just words. I have been fortunate to work with inspiring colleagues, mentors, and administrators who provided opportunities to grow, lead, and innovate. The guidance, professional development, and collaboration I received shaped me into the educator I am today, and now I am committed to giving back and passing the torch to the next generation.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that I can make a difference in the lives of students everywhere. This has always resonated with me and fuels my passion for teaching—reminding me that the impact of education extends far beyond the classroom.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is that you can absolutely build a successful career doing work you love—one that makes a meaningful impact on many lives and is deeply rewarding. Pursue your passion, embrace opportunities to grow, and trust that your dedication can create real change.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field is the ability to positively impact every student who enters my classroom. While meeting each student’s unique needs can be challenging, it is also incredibly rewarding, as it allows me to make a meaningful difference in their learning, growth, and overall development.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important value to me in both my work and personal life is giving back—sharing the knowledge and support I’ve received with my school and professional communities. I strive to be a cultural ambassador, helping students understand that language is identity and goes far beyond memorizing vocabulary. I aim to inspire them to persevere, just as I did in volleyball, where representing my state in Ecuador taught me discipline and resilience. Outside of work, I enjoy playing volleyball, hiking with my family, exploring local restaurants, and visiting museums and live concerts, which fuel my creativity and inspiration. My guiding principle is to pass the torch, giving back and continuing the legacy of those who have supported me.