​A Journey Rooted in Education and Advocacy

Dr. Rangel’s journey in education began with her own experiences as a bilingual and bicultural individual, navigating the complexities of two worlds. These early experiences fueled her passion for education and advocacy, leading her to pursue a degree in Bilingual/Bicultural and Elementary Education from Northeastern University in Chicago. She later earned a master’s degree in School Administration and a Doctorate in Education from North Carolina State University, equipping her with the knowledge and skills to make a significant impact in the field.

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Throughout her career, Dr. Rangel has held various positions that have allowed her to directly influence the lives of students and their families. From teaching third-grade bilingual classes to serving as a Senior Administrator for Latino Outreach, she has always been at the forefront of efforts to support underserved communities. Her extensive experience includes roles such as Assistant Principal, LEP/Dual Language Coordinator, and now, FACE Director in the Office of Equity Affairs at WCPSS. 

Her influence extends well beyond Wake County, however.  From 2017 to 2023, she chaired the NC Governor’s Advisory Council on Hispanic/Latino Affairs, and she currently also serves as a board member and secretary for the NC Education Corps.

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Dr. Rangel’s exceptional contributions to the community have earned her numerous accolades. In October 2013, she received the Latino Diamante Award for her work in education. In 2018 she received the Ohtli Award from the Consul General of Mexico, Remedios Gómez Arnu, for her longstanding contributions to NC Latino families. More recently, in March 2023, she was named Hispanic Woman of the Year by the Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce. That same year, she was recognized by the Lieutenant Governor for her outstanding work with the Family Academy Program, particularly for providing parent workshops in eight different languages.

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Fostering Family Engagement and Educational Equity

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In her current role in WCPSS, Dr. Rangel is responsible for developing and coordinating programs that foster family and community engagement to support students’ academic success across the district. She oversees the District Family Academy, which offers free workshops and educational events to families in Wake County, helping them better understand the educational system and how to support their children's learning.

Dr. Rangel’s approach to family engagement is rooted in the belief that schools and families must work together as partners in education. She maintains that when families are involved, students are more likely to succeed academically and socially. Her work ensures that families from all cultural and linguistic backgrounds feel welcomed and valued in the educational community.

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One of Dr. Rangel's significant contributions has been her work in promoting culturally responsive teaching practices. As an adjunct professor at Peace University, she teaches future educators how to incorporate equity tools into their teaching, ensuring that all students feel seen and heard in the classroom.

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Leadership and Vision for NC READS​

As a member of the NC READS Board, Dr. Rangel has brought her extensive experience and deep understanding of the challenges faced by diverse student populations to the forefront of the organization’s mission. Her decision to join the board was driven by a profound concern for the literacy challenges facing today’s youth. "I chose to join the NC READS Board because, as an educator deeply invested in the future of our country, I am particularly concerned about the literacy challenges facing our youth. Research consistently underscores that reading is a foundational skill critical to success in all other academic areas. Unfortunately, many students, even in kindergarten, struggle with basic reading skills, which, if unaddressed, can significantly impede their overall educational progress," says Dr. Rangel.

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Her role with NC READS allows her to leverage her experience leading the WCPSS Family Academy Parent and Caregiver Workshops, which provide educational support in eight different languages, to enhance the organization's efforts. "The mission of NC READS resonates with my professional and personal commitment to literacy. I believe that by collaborating with this organization, we can amplify our efforts and make a more substantial impact," she explains.

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Dr. Rangel’s vision for NC READS is ambitious yet grounded in her extensive experience. "My aspiration for NC READS is to establish it as a central resource for parents within the community—a trusted hub where they can access the tools and support necessary to foster their children's literacy development. I envision NC READS as a leader in collaborative efforts, working alongside various educational organizations and agencies throughout North Carolina to create a comprehensive network of literacy support services."

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Extending the Reach of NC READS

​As a Board member, Dr. Rangel aims to extend the reach of NC READS to the families served by her current program at WCPSS. She believes that fostering collaboration between these initiatives will enable a greater impact on the communities they serve. "With over 30 years of experience in K-12 education, I bring a wealth of knowledge, particularly in addressing the needs of diverse student populations. Additionally, my Hispanic/Latinx cultural perspective will add valuable insight as we work to address literacy challenges across North Carolina," says Dr. Rangel.

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Her leadership has been particularly impactful in her role as Chair of the Wake PTA Council’s Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity Subcommittee, where she works to ensure that all families have a voice in the educational process. “Diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords; they are fundamental to creating an educational environment where every student can thrive,” Dr. Rangel asserts.

 

Looking Ahead

Dr. Rangel remains committed to her mission of ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background. Her work with NC READS is a continuation of her lifelong dedication to literacy and educational equity. As she continues to bridge the gap between schools and communities, Dr. Rangel serves as a reminder of the power of education to transform lives and create lasting change. Her deep understanding of the challenges faced by Latino families, combined with her extensive experience in education, makes her a vital part of the mission of NC READS to promote literacy and educational equity.

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Conclusion

​Dr. Rosa Rangel’s work is not just about improving education; it's about building bridges—between cultures, between families and schools, and between the past and a more equitable future. As North Carolina continues to grow and diversify, leaders like Dr. Rangel will play a crucial role in shaping an educational system that serves all students, regardless of where they come from or where they’re going.