Dr. Kathrina Mendez

Biography

Kathrina Mendez holds a B.A. in Human Development, a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, and an M.Ed with Reading Literacy Added Authorization, all earned from the University of California, San Diego. She has served as a general education teacher and language arts specialist for grades K-6 in the National School District for 18 years. Mendez's relationship with UCSD’s Partners Learning EDS began in 2003 as a PAL mentor and teaching assistant. After receiving her credential in 2005, she fulfilled a dual role as a cooperating teacher and guide teacher for EDS. In 2022, she transitioned to a full-time faculty role in the Teacher Education Program, where she currently supervises multiple subject credential candidates and instructs undergraduate PAL courses, language arts methods, and seminar courses. She has been a Teacher Leader in the California Reading Literature Project (CRLP) at UCSD CREATE since 2011, where she collaborates with fellow educators to design and facilitate literacy and social justice-focused professional learning experiences. Mendez is deeply committed to supporting historically underrepresented students and educators through culturally responsive pedagogy, mentorship programs, and continuous professional learning. Additionally, she is an active board member of the Teaching and Learning Collaborative, partnering with local organizations to establish educational grants while co-facilitating complementary professional growth sessions for educators. In her classroom, Mendez enjoys practicing yoga, exploring new places, reading, and indulging in culinary experiences, cherishing moments spent cooking and sharing laughter with her husband, children, and loved ones.

Research Interests