Professor
Educational Administation
A native of Nashville, Tennessee, I began my career in education as a teacher and administrator in the Tennessee public schools. In 1999, I joined the faculty of the Charter College of Education. Since joining the faculty, I have taught both in the area of teacher preparation as a member of the Single Subject/Multiple Subject Teaching Credential Program faculty and in the area of school leadership preparation as a member of the Educational Administration Program faculty. A graduate of the University of Mississippi, I hold a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction and a doctorate in Educational Administration from Tennessee State University in Nashville.
Teaching and Research Focus
Since the start of my career in education, I have been drawn to gain a greater understanding into the process of creating and maintaining optimal learning environments for children and adolescents. This desire to investigate the importance of school and classroom climates and cultures saw its genesis in my research for my doctoral dissertation, which found that novice teachers perceive their preparation in the creation of optimal learning environments is lacking. Throughout my career in higher education, I have taught classroom environment/management and school organization culture, and initiated and maintained a research agenda on school climate and culture. The manifestation of this research has led to the creation of the Alliance for the Study of School Climate, where I serve as Co-Director. My research through the Alliance has led to numerous presentations and publications. Also through the Alliance, I have provided consulting and professional development to schools and school districts throughout the nation.
- Ed.D. in Educational Administration
Tennessee State University, 1998 - M.Ed. in Curriculum/Instruction
Tennessee State University, 1993 - B.A. in History/Political Science
University of Mississippi, 1990