What is the best part about teaching in this graduate program?
I love growing future school administrators, giving back to the profession, and sharing my over 32 years of experience in education.
What is the one thing you hope students take away from your course(s)?
Leading schools effectively takes a village. I also want them [students] to be energized and excited about the next steps in their educational career. I want them to see how important and what a difference a prepared building leader can have in an education community.
What are the real-world applications of the work you do at the University?
I’m an educational leader with over 32 years of experience from PreK- High School, Central Office, and Higher Education. I ensure that all the hands-on activities students engaged in mirror activities and tasks they will be required to do in a principal role.
What kinds of coursework and capstone projects should students expect?
My course is designed with real-world applications rather than textbooks. Students complete projects and coursework like a school improvement plan, communication to families, Board of Education mock presentation, trauma, illness/grief school preparedness, and process to have hard conversations with stakeholders.
What advice would you give to a student who wants to be successful?
Collaborate with others and learn as much as you can from your professors. We are here to help you succeed and encourage you along the way. Learn from your mistakes and your successes.
What is the focus of your scholarly pursuits?
I completed my EdD in 2023. My dissertation research was based on how to implement social-emotional learning competencies in a PreK -12 school district. I continuously research how the brain is modified by trauma and how students can be successful by addressing their emotional needs.