Dr. Martha I Martinez has more than 20 years experience researching, overseeing and supporting policies and programs designed to improve educational outcomes for underserved students. As Senior Director of Research and Evaluation, she oversees the organization’s research agenda, including supporting and directing evaluations of SEAL’s professional development in PK-6 grade school settings on teacher practice, student outcomes, and school systems. Prior to joining SEAL, Dr. Martinez worked at the Oregon Department of Education where she played a key role in the development of ELPA21, oversaw the state’s dual language grant program, and served as co-Principal Investigator on two Research-Practice Partnerships focused on Oregon’s ELs. She received her Ph.D. in Educational Methodology, Policy and Leadership from the University of Oregon.