Claudia Montoya Dunn

Dr. Claudia Montoya Dunn is a Visiting Professor and Lecturer at San Diego State University in the Departments of Special Education and Dual Language and English Education. Her work focuses on social-emotional development, equity, and family engagement in multicultural and multilingual communities, with a particular emphasis on supporting children with disabilities. Dr. Dunn bridges research and practice in social-emotional learning, special education, and culturally responsive approaches to improve access, inclusion, and well-being across educational systems. She has led and contributed to federally funded research projects and has extensive experience working with first-generation, immigrant, and underserved communities. Dr. Dunn is also the co-author of the bilingual children’s book The Big Day at the Fair, which incorporates cultural legends to teach social-emotional skills. She translates research into practice through community-engaged scholarship, professional development, and family-centered advocacy.