María del Rosario Rosa
Professor at University of Puerto RicoDr. Mari Rosa is a professor at the University of Puerto Rico Graduate School of Education. She holds a Doctorate in Education: Guidance and Counseling from the University of Puerto Rico.
Dr. Rosa is an NBCC Certified Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor in Puerto Rico. She is an academic, occupational, and personal counselor. She has counseled college-bound students in academic choices and scholarships for over twenty years.
Her publications include:
Colectivo Profesionales de la Salud. Ideas para una Vida Saludable, 2023
Rivera, M y Rosa, M. La Carrera de la Vida, 2023
Rivera, M y Rosa, M. Bienestar Emocional, 2020
Tengo bebé y voy a la universidad, 2006
Sathibhoph Somtua
Principal / Head of SPIP at Satit Prasarnmit International Programme (SPIP)Sathibhoph Somtua joined the Satit Prasarnmit International Programme, which is a part of Srinakharinwirot University Prasarnmit Demonstration School, in August 2012. Since then, his role has developed into senior leadership, and he plays the role of developing and organizing. Mr. Somtua has enjoyed watching SPIP grow from strength to strength over the 12 years he has been there, in terms of numbers, facilities, and the breadth of effectiveness of the curriculum offered. We offer the full British curriculum from year 7 to year 13 under the umbrella of the Cambridge International Examination Centre. On behalf of the Principal and Head of SPIP, he would like to create new knowledge and networks at the international level to transform the education system into one that develops new quality students to be able to be the future change leaders.
Krittakorn Sarakit
Thai Teacher at Thammasat Secondary SchoolKrittakorn Sarakit is a Thai teacher at Thammasat Secondary School. He received a bachelor's degree in Thai with a major in Thai and a minor in Cambodian. His research interests focus on comparative linguistics and teaching Thai to Thai native speakers.
Jirapat Srisuk
Teacher at Thammasat Secondary SchoolJirapat Srisuk is an experienced English language teacher at Thammasat Secondary School, a part of the Faculty of Learning Sciences and Education at Thammasat University in Thailand. With a focus on English language teaching and teacher development, Jirapat has actively contributed to various projects within the Thai educational landscape. His research interests encompass English language teaching methodologies, reflective practices in English classrooms, and the dynamics of team teaching.
Antero Hietamäki
Administrative Head / Principal at University of Jyvaskyla / Teacher training schoolAdministrative Head / Principal at the University of Jyväskylä, Teacher Training School in Finland.
Experienced principal with a demonstrated history of working in the education management industry.
LIDON LASHLEY
Director of University of Guyana Early Childhood Centre of ExcellenceDr Lidon Lashley has been working in the field of teaching and teacher education for the past 21 years. He is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Foundation and Education Management and an immediate past Assistant Dean in the Faculty of Education and Humanities. Dr Lidon Lashley is currently the Director of the University of Guyana’s Early Childhood Centre of Excellence (UG-ECCE). He is the Chairman of the University of Guyana Inclusivity Diversity and Equity Task Force. Lidon is the holder of a Trained Class One Grade One Teachers’ Certificate from Cyril Potter of Education, where he graduated in the top percentile of his cohort. He also returned to the college and lectured for a while. Lidon has a Bachelor of Education (Distinction) from the University of Guyana; Masters of Education (GPA 4.0) - Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Guyana; Masters of Arts - Special and Inclusive Education (Merit) from the University of Roehampton, United Kingdom, and a PhD Special and Inclusive Education (Pass Without Corrections) from the University of Roehampton, United Kingdom. Lidon is a Commonwealth PhD Scholar and a Certified Accounting Technician at the Institute of Commercial Management, United Kingdom. Lidon’s research interests lie in the areas of early childhood education, curriculum development, and special and inclusive education. Dr Lidon Lashley is also the independent author of two books, Guyana’s Child Fighting to Be Free and Computer Aided Instructions In Mathematics. He also co-authored a third book with Dr Michelle Semple-McBean on Sociodramatic Play in Guyana and a Fourth book on Inspirations for the Guyana Conference of Seventh Day Adventists. In addition, Dr Lashley has over twenty-five (25) research papers published in international peer-reviewed academic journals. Dr. Lidon Lashley and Dr. Michelle Semple-McBean created the Mock Teaching Model utilized by the University of Guyana and Cyril Potter College of Education for Teachers’ Practicum. Dr. Lashley also has written several technical reports on education development in Guyana. He co-led the team that wrote the University of Guyana’s Inclusivity, Diversity, and Equity Policy. Dr Lashley designed the Southern Inclusion Framework and the Inclusive Education Checker. As an educator, Dr Lashley continues to pioneer special and inclusive education innovations in Guyana.
Thanchanok Rochanaphapayon
Teacher at Thammasat Secondary SchoolThanchanok Rochanaphapayon is an experienced English language teacher at Thammasat Secondary School, Thammasat University, Thailand. In addition to her teaching role, she actively participates in educational projects aimed at enhancing teacher education in the central region of Thailand. Her research interests focus on reading development for EFL learners and the integration of digital literacy in language instruction.
Katrina Bartow Jacobs
Associate Professor of Practice/Falk Research Coordinator at University of PittsburghDr. Katrina Bartow Jacobs is an associate professor of practice of Language, Literacy, and Culture within the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Leading. She is also the Research Coordinator at Falk Laboratory School, a K-8 school affiliated with the School of Education. Her current work focuses on the intersections of practice, theory, and policy; the ways that children take up issues of gender and identity during the reading of texts; and the use of research as a framework for change that centers teachers and students as producers of knowledge about teaching and learning.
Rossana Madsathawee
English Teacher at Srinakharinwirot UniversityDr. Rossana Madsathawee is an accomplished English teacher at Srinakharinwirot University Prasarnmit Demonstration School (Secondary). She began her teaching career in 1999 and has since dedicated over a decade to educating high school students. In addition to her classroom experience, Dr. Madsathawee has extensive expertise in teacher training for university students. She holds a Bachelor of Education (Ed.B.), a Master of Arts (M.A.), and a Doctorate (Ph.D.), reflecting her commitment to academic excellence and professional development in the field of education.
Natalie Baez Martinez
Technology Integration Teacher at University of Puerto Rico Elementary SchoolNatalie Báez Martínez is the current Technology Integration teacher at the University of Puerto Rico Laboratory School. She has worked as a teaching assistant and was a former student-teacher at the school. She is finishing her doctoral studies in the Technology and Curriculum program at the Faculty of Education at the University of Puerto Rico and has given various workshops about technology tools to college professors and students.
Worapong Saenprasert
Head of Educational Supervision and Research at Srinakharinwirot UniversitySatit Prasarnmit International Programme (SPIP) fosters an environment conducive to study and creativity, aiming to guide students on a journey of self-discovery and academic excellence. Under the leadership of Dr. Worapong Saengprasert, Head of Educational Supervision and Research, SPIP emphasizes the dual role of teachers as both knowledgeable instructors and supportive mentors, committed to integrating academic success with essential life skills. The program is designed to cultivate well-rounded individuals who excel not only as independent learners but also as collaborative team players and critical thinkers, achieved through exposure to a diverse array of challenging activities that promote holistic development.
Nicolas Ramos
Executive Director of International Association of Laboratory SchoolsNicolás Ramos is an Assistant Professor at the University of Puerto Rico Secondary School. He is the Executive Director of the International Association of Laboratory Schools.
Mika Antola
Vice Principal at University of Jyväskylä Teacher Training SchoolMika Antola, M.Sc., is a teacher of mathematics, natural sciences, and information technology working currently as a subject teacher, teacher educator, coordinator of subject teacher training, and vice principal of the upper secondary school at the University of Jyväskylä Teacher Training School. His research interests include teacher trainees’ thinking of digitalization.
Jean Bird
Educator at CMU Children's SchoolJean Thompson Bird grew up in Pittsburgh and graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in Child Development. She taught in the Children’s School for seven years directly out of college. Jean continued to work part-time for CMU in the Center for University Outreach DASH project (Developmental Approaches to Science, Health, and Technology), all the while staying connected to the Children's School as a parent and substitute teacher. She returned to the Children's School staff twenty years ago and has continued to teach the Older 4’s class full time since 2005. Music, woodworking, science, and exploring books and stories are some of Jean’s favorite activities to do with children. Jean also serves on the board of the International Association of Laboratory Schools (IALS).
Maggie Bittel
Learning Specialist at Campus School of Smith CollegeMaggie Bittel is the K-3 Learning Specialist at the Campus School of Smith College in Northampton, MA. She received an Educational Specialist degree from Bay Path University in June of this year, with a focus on structured language instruction and multisensory reading intervention. Maggie has had many roles at the Campus School since she arrived as a classroom teacher in 2006, but has primarily worked as a second-grade teacher with a passion for literacy instruction, social justice education, and social-emotional community building. Maggie was a teacher at the Bank Street School for Children while earning her M.S.Ed in Elementary Education from Bank Street College and holds a B.A. from Vassar College. She sees reading access as a matter of equity and believes in the power of collaboration to support students of all ages.
Chriss Bogert
Vice Principal at Dr. Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study Laboratory SchoolChriss Bogert is the Vice-Principal at the Dr. Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study Laboratory School (JICS), University of Toronto. Chriss graduated from the teacher education program at JICS in 1994 and has since been an educator, parent, and administrator at the Lab School. She first taught Junior Kindergarten for the Lab School at the University of Western Ontario, and worked as a supply teacher for public schools, before returning to teach the Nursery program at JICS. Chriss was the Teacher Librarian and Technology Integrator for 5 years, and also served as Vice President and President on the JICS Parents’ Association. A long-time proponent of the importance of supporting educational research, Chriss has served as the research coordinator for many years, and chairs the Child Research Review Committee for the Lab School. She has been dedicated in her role as Vice Principal to fulfill the purpose of the lab school through seeking out and supporting collaborations with other researchers and educators. Chriss is also a student in the EdD in Child Study and Education program at JICS studying how to best foster engagement and motivation with learning, through a children’s rights lens.
Dea Bonerman
Former Head of Library at Greenwood Laboratory SchoolDea Borneman is recently retired as the head of the Haseltine Library at the Greenwood Laboratory School and a professor of Library Science at Missouri State University. Dea also serves on the Steering Committee for the Children’s and Young Adult Book Review Board of Missouri, which focuses on reviewing new series, non-fiction, and multiethnic/multicultural titles.
Larisa Callaway-Cole
Assistant Professor at Cal Poly HumboldtLarisa Callaway-Cole, Ed.D. is an Assistant Professor of Child Development at Cal Poly Humboldt. Prior, Larisa spent several years teaching in early childhood and higher education contexts. Larisa’s research focuses on the dynamic counternarratives of minoritized children, families, and educators, specifically regarding the power of storying diverse knowledges and perspectives of care and relationships in early childhood.
Argie Campbell
4th Grade Supervising Instructor at Kilby Laboratory School/Florence CityMrs. Argie Campbell is a 4th grade supervising teacher at Kilby Laboratory School affiliated with the University of North Alabama where is also an adjunct professor of Social Studies for Elementary Education. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Human Development from Samford University, Master of Arts in Teaching with a license in Middle Grades from Christian Brothers University, and an Education Specialist degree in Teacher Leader from University of North Alabama. Her research interests include curriculum development and integration, social studies and social justice education, and mentoring pre-service teachers.
Narttanit Chanintaratheip
Teacher at Srinakharinwirot UniversityMiss Narttanit Chanintaratheip has been a teacher at SWU Prasarnmit Demonstration School (Secondary) since 2013. Her educational background is an M.A. (Linguistics for Communication).
Supatsara Chatuchokudo
Teacher at Srinakharinwirot UniversityMiss Supatsara Chatuchokudom holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (B.Ed.) from Chandrakasem Rajabhat University and a Master’s degree in Special Education (M.Ed.) from Srinakharinwirot University. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Special Education at the same institution.
Since 2011, Miss Chatuchokudom has been dedicated to her work at Srinakharinwirot University Prasarnmit Demonstration School (Secondary), where she initially served as the Head of the Center for Students with Diverse Learning Needs from 2011 to 2013. In 2017, she resumed this role and has since continued to lead initiatives that support students with special educational requirements. Her commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment reflects her extensive background in both special education and early childhood development, positioning her as a pivotal figure in advancing educational practices at the school.
Yamily Colón-Negrón
Associate Professor at UPR Elementary SchoolYamily Colón-Negrón is an associate professor of Mathematics at the Laboratory School of the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras campus. She obtained her EdD in Education in Mathematics in 2018 from the University of Puerto Rico. Her dissertation topic is Educational Practices of Mathematics Teachers in Teaching Pattern Generalization. She is currently working on a research project focused on the interactions of fifth grade students while solving mathematics problems through collaborative work. In addition, she has a "Math Master Teacher" certification (NSF scholarship), that enriched her practice with innovative pedagogical strategies. She currently also works as a supervising professor for practicing teachers.
Abigail Comber
Principal at Burris Laboratory SchoolDr. Comber earned her PhD in English Literature from Ball State University in 2012. She started her career as a teacher in 1999 and has taught in various school settings in Washington, Ohio, and Oregon. Dr. Comber came to Burris in 2008, when she was hired as an Instructor of English. In 2018, she assumed the role of Assistant Principal and in 2021 was named Principal and Chairperson of Burris Laboratory School. Dr. Comber is also a member of the IALS Board of Directors.
Luanda Cunningham
Teacher at Ohio State UniversityLuanda Cunningham has over twenty years of experience working with children from infants through school age. Over half of those years were spent working with preschool children at Head Start and two years at A. Sophie Rogers School for Early Learning. During the pandemic, she stepped away to work on a longitudinal study at Ohio State University evaluating how stress affects language development in children 6 months to 5 years old. She returned to A Sophie Rogers in 2023, working with preschool children. Luanda has an AAS from Columbus State Community College in Early Childhood Development Education. Her goals include earning a BS in American Education Studies from Franklin University and obtaining her MS in Human Development and Family Science from Ohio State University. She spends time with her son and his very active social calendar when not working.
Meenakshi Dahal
Kathmandu University School of EducationMeenakshi Dahal, PhD, Associate Professor, Kathmandu University School of Education and a Free Lance consultant (Education/ Early Child development) from Nepal.
She is a policy researcher, early child development expert and child rights advocate. Her research interests focus on child rights, child development, trauma and resilience, instructional design and quality of education. She has written a book, chapters in various books and articles in national and international journals. She has received recognition as an “Emerging Leader”.
Marisa DeMatteo
Teacher at URI Dr. Pat Feinstein Child Development CenterMarisa DeMatteo is a dedicated early childhood educator with over 10 years of experience. A graduate of the University of Rhode Island, she believes in the critical role of nurturing strong relationships with children and families. Currently, she is teaching at the URI Dr. Pat Feinstein Child Development Center, where she enjoys making a positive impact in the lives of preschool children.
Simone Gravesande
Principal at The Mabin SchoolSimone is Principal of The Mabin School, and she brings with her deep experience, not only leading schools, but transforming education-based institutions, and a warm, knowledgeable and student-centered approach. Hailing from the Peel District School Board as Coordinating Principal for the Director’s office, Simone brings seventeen years of experience as a principal to her role at The Mabin School. She is an award-winning leader and an avid learner who is currently working towards her PhD in Change Management at OISE. Simone's approachable nature, and solid experience as a relationship-based educator, allow her to forge and maintain deep connections. She is excited to bring her personal leadership strengths to support our community, faculty, staff and students while maintaining a collaborative, positive, and nurturing environment at The Mabin School.
Melinda Hammerschmidt
Dr. Hammerschmidt Instructor at Greenwood Laboratory SchoolDr. Melinda Hammerschmidt has earned certifications in gifted education and special reading and received her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas Tech University. Greenwood Laboratory School is part of the College of Education at Missouri State University. It presents opportunities for Melinda to work with young students and college students who aspire to become teachers. Dr. Hammerschmidt and co-author Dea Borneman have made numerous presentations to other teachers and librarians about their ongoing collaborative work. An article and pullout activity on their latest project, Inspiring Americans, was published in the 2018 Nov. /Dec. issue of the journal Social Studies and the Young Learner.
Leslie Hitchens
Principal at St. Thomas UniversityDr. Hitchens brings a wealth of experience in helping all students feel represented and being accepted as their authentic selves. She has served Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) students for nearly 20 years as a teacher serving students who receive specialized education, a peer assistance and review coach, an administrative intern at Maxfield, and most recently, as a K-12 Special Education Supervisor for SPPS. Dr. Hitchens is a leader in racial equity work and is committed to working with the community to promote students’ academic and social emotional growth. She directly engages with the unconscious bias of structures that hinder and harm the achievement of our Black and Brown students. She is proud to continue the great work of Maxfield Elementary. Dr. Hitchens has excellent academic qualifications with a Bachelor of Arts degree in special education and elementary education from Xavier University of Louisiana, a Master of Arts degree in curriculum and instruction from University of Minnesota -- Twin Cities and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from Hamline University.
Carissa Johnston
Lead Preschool Teacher at URI's Dr. Pat Feinstein Child Development CenterCJ Johnston-Doucette (she/they) began a career in early childhood education in 2008, leaving behind the world of Human Resources and Mortgage Brokering, to pursue what was a “calling to educate young children’s minds and hearts with equal care.” CJ is a three-time graduate of Rhode Island College, and holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology (with an emphasis in childhood development), a Master’s in Elementary Education, and a Master’s in Early Childhood Education. CJ is a Lead Preschool Teacher at the URI Dr. Pat Feinstein Child Development Center and is proud to be a part of a school that is passionate about using a holistic approach to support the development of young children through a play-based emergent curriculum.
Naizer Juarez
Journal Co-editor and Newsletter Committee at Thammasat UniversityNaizer Juarez is a degree holder in Secondary Education major in English, a Master's Degree in Teaching English and in Educational Management. He has been teaching English in many creative approaches for the past 10 years to all levels. His line of expertise falls on public speaking, creative literary writing, language curriculum development (including project-based approaches), and technical and academic writing. He is passionate about teaching the English language while innovating both traditional and non-traditional educational technology and incorporating them in classroom endeavors in a variety of contextualizations.
Susan Keefe
Lead Teacher at University of Rhode Islandusan J. Keefe, MS., ECE is a lead teacher at the University of Rhode Island Child Development Center (CDC), an NAEYC accredited and IALS affiliated laboratory preschool on the Kington Campus. She has over 30 years of experience teaching both preschool and kindergarten children. Susan has expertise in early childhood education, child development, and teaching young children as well as adult learners. As a laboratory school teacher, Susan supervises college aged students and adult learners. She has been a lecturer in Human Development and Family Studies at URI for over 20 years focusing in Early Childhood Education courses. Through a partnership with Pre-K Initiative and RIDE, Susan served as a consultant for various Pre-K programs to align evidence-based best practice to RIELDS the areas of math, science and literacy. She has extensive experience providing professional development training to early childhood classroom teachers throughout RI and CT, some topics have included science, math, guidance and discipline, yoga and peacemaking, supporting family connections, and risky play.
Ashley Keener
Teacher at Ohio State UniversityAshley Keener has a bachelor’s degree in music education from Ashland University. She taught music for several years in grades K-12. She started her early childhood career in 2009, working in several preschool programs, including Head Start. She is currently a preschool teacher at the A. Sophie Rogers School for Early Learning. Ashley completed her Early Childhood Education and Administration Certificate from Columbus State in 2021. She is enrolled in Ohio State University, pursuing a master’s degree in teaching and learning. In her free time, she enjoys taking ballet classes and spending time with her family.
Nas Khan
Nas Khan is Head of AEDI and Outreach at University of Toronto
Leslie Kochanowski
Director of Research & Initiatives at University of Cincinnati/Arlitt CenterLeslie Kochanowski, PhD is the Director of Research and Initiatives at the Arlitt Center for Education, Research, & Sustainability at the University of Cincinnati. She is an advocate for social justice, equity, and high-quality programming in early childhood education, employing principles of Early Childhood Education for Sustainability and Reggio Emilia practices as quality frameworks. She is the Associate/Managing Editor for the Children, Youth & Environments Journal and a consultant on designing and optimizing children's play and learning environments. Her experience as a teacher and researcher informs her scholarly focus on participatory action research in early childhood education aimed at elevating pedagogy and children's schooling experiences.
Heather Leeman
Master Teacher at University of Connecticut Child Development CenterHeather Leeman is a Master Teacher in Preschool 2. She graduated from the University of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ) with a degree in Education. She began teaching at the CDL in January 2005 when an opportunity arose to work in a play-based program. Heather creates a classroom that is welcoming and inviting for preschool children. She brings her love and appreciation of nature to the classroom, introducing the preschoolers to play that involves rocks, shells, tree bark, sticks, and other natural materials. She supports the children’s interest in caring for nature and the environment by teaching kinship with nature and conservation in a developmentally appropriate way, dedicating much of their learning to the outdoor environment.
Heather is excited to work with young children and share their sense of wonder of the world around them. She loves hearing the stories they share and getting a peek at the preschoolers’ unique interpretation of the world around them. She enjoys the energy that the college students bring to the preschool classroom each semester and the challenges that come with supporting preschool and adult learners. Heather is committed to connecting children and adults to nature, supporting their individual journeys with environmental kinship.
Hannah Lord
Consulting Psychologist at Campus School of Smith College"Hannah Lord is the Consulting Psychologist at the Campus School of Smith College and Faculty in Smith’s Department of Education and Child Study. She teaches courses in learning differences, classroom intervention, child study, racism and bias, trauma-informed pedagogy, and the application of psychological theory to educational practice. Hannah holds a PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University and a B.A. from Brown University."
Kim MacKinnon
Assistant Professor at OISE, University of TorontoDr. MacKinnon is an Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream at OISE, University of Toronto, as well as the Director of the Eureka Research Institute at the University of Toronto Schools (UTS). She works with the Master of Teaching (MT) initial teacher education program, where she teaches courses on integrating technology into the classroom, and educational research methods. Her primary research interests are in the areas of design of digital technologies to support collaborative learning, online/hybrid learning, and teacher professional development.
Sandra Maragkopoulou
Lead Teacher at URI Kingston Child Development CenterSandra Maragkopoulou M.S., ECE is a lead at the University of Rhode Island Child Development Center, an NAEYC accredited and IALS affiliated school on the Kingston Campus. Sandra's masters thesis researched Digital Media and English Language Development of Dual Language Learners in Kindergarten. She has presented in training workshops around Rhode Island on areas such as supporting children during transitions, and service learning with young children. During the past four years, she has supervised college age students and adult learners in the preschool setting. Sandra is passionate about partnering with different sectors of the ECE field to develop and support an inclusive curriculum along with implementing individualized education goals.
Barbara Meyer
Associate Professor at Illinois State UniversityDr. Barbara Meyer is an Associate Professor in the School of Teaching & Learning at Illinois State University, Normal IL, USA. She served as Acting Director for the Illinois State University Laboratory Schools from June 2020 until June 2022. She also served as Associate Dean for the College of Education from 2014-2022. She teaches courses in Secondary Teacher Education Methods and her research focus is on University Laboratory Schools in the United States.
Amy Miller
Science Educator at Ball State University"With over 25 years of experience in education, Amy Miller has taught middle and high school students, collaborated with elementary educators, and contributed to the development of K-12 science curricula. As a Ball State University graduate with a degree in Biology with a focus on genetics, a minor in Chemistry, and a Master’s in Secondary Education, Amy is currently co-teaching Chemistry alongside a new teacher while also leading AP Chemistry and Botany classes. Amy dedicates part of her day to fostering hands-on, experiential science learning as the Outdoor Education Coordinator. Amy is passionate about engaging students through real-world, interactive science experiences."
Evelyn Mocherman
Ball State UniversitySince joining the Burris Faculty in 2014 as a member of the Mathematics Department, Mrs. Mocherman has loved being in an environment where students and faculty support and encourage each other through both struggles and successes! Some of her most rewarding experiences in teaching have been watching students push through their mental block when it comes to understanding mathematical concepts. It is a privilege to be a part of the moment when a student realizes they can put into practice the skills learned together to solve what used to be an unsolvable problem, building confidence in their own abilities.
Heidi Mouhu
Teacher at University of JyvaskylaHeidi Mouhu, Ph.D. (Ed.), is a teacher of religion and psychology, currently working as a class teacher, teacher educator, and vice head of the primary school at the University of Jyväskylä Teacher Training School. She is also involved in developing supervisor training within eNorssi - a network of Finnish Teacher Training Schools. In her dissertation, she examined the negotiation of the professional identity of the teacher supervising the teaching practice in a teacher training school. She has participated in several international projects. She is also interested in developing well-being learning in the school context.
Debbie Muro
Master Teacher at University of Connecticut Child Development CenterDebbie has worked at the Child Development Labs since October of 2006 and has offered her nurturing and respectful presence in the classroom ever since! She received her bachelor’s degree from Boston University in Art History and her master’s in Elementary Education from the University of Connecticut. Debbie helps children unlock the wonder and delight of the most common objects, with her own joy shining through.
Debbie is dedicated to sharing her passions for nature, the environment, and yoga with children, families, and college students. Debbie works to foster the Pro-social Skills of kindness, respect, expressing emotions, self-regulation, and cooperation to create a welcoming, inclusive classroom, where all feel valued and celebrated, as well as learning different tools to help children relax, self-regulate, and build the self-confidence they will need throughout their lives.
Stefanie ONieal
Educator at Ball State UniversityThroughout her distinguished career spanning over thirty years, Stefanie Onieal has held numerous impactful roles in education. She has been a dedicated classroom teacher, working primarily with first and second grades, and has also served as a special education teacher, math coach, library and literacy specialist, and Reading Recovery instructor. In 2020, her commitment to innovative and creative teaching was recognized with the Ball Brothers Excellence in Teaching Award. Stefanie holds both a B.S. and M.A. in elementary education, as well as an administrator's license. Currently, she serves as an assistant principal at Burris Laboratory School and lectures pre-service teachers at Ball State University, inspiring the next generation of educators.
Eduardo Ortiz-Maldonado
Professor at University of Puerto RicoEduardo Ortiz-Maldonado is a professor at the University of Puerto Rico at Arecibo. He earned his Ph.D. in Spanish Literature from Emory University in Atlanta Georgia in the year 2007. His research and publications include areas like 20th Century Spanish and Latin American Literature and Film, Avant-Garde Art History and topics like Heroism, Gender, Violence, Myth and Religion. In terms of his pedagogical practice and research professor Ortiz-Maldonado focuses on the implementation of Active Learning, Problem and Project Based Learning, Writing Across the Curriculum and Collaborative Learning. He also has worked as designer and facilitator of Student and Faculty Learning Communities.
Ben Peebles
Vice-Principal Strategy, Equity, and Learning at The Mabin SchoolBen Peebles has been teaching for 18 years, and he is currently Vice-Principal of Strategy, Equity, and Learning at The Mabin School. After completing his Master of Arts in Child Study and Education, he began his career as a Physical Education teacher before moving into upper elementary classrooms at the Dr. Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study Laboratory School at the University of Toronto. As a lab school teacher he has always taught in a research-based environment dedicated to exploring what is possible in education. Ben has mentored countless teacher candidates and collaborated with pre-eminent researchers, co-designing studies and interventions in the classroom, often with an emphasis on inquiry, science, technology, and collaborative learning. Ben has presented on innovative projects at national conferences across North America, and developed connections with educators in Italy, China, and Singapore. He has extensive experience in outdoor education, inquiry- based teaching, and developing equity initiatives at the classroom and school level.
Colleen Price
Teacher at Kilby Laboratory School/University of North AlabamaColleen Price is a 5th grade supervising teacher at Kilby Laboratory School, affiliated with the University of North Alabama, supporting and mentoring pre-service teachers. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Math/ Science/ Technology from The College of New Jersey and a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction: Gifted Education from Arizona State University. Her research interests include integrating math with other content areas as well as implementing writing in content areas, particularly science and math, to assess student understanding.
Pruksapan Sawardsuk
Teacher at Srinakharinwirot UniversityMiss Pruksapan Sawardsuk graduated from Srinakharinwirot University with both bachelor's and master's degrees, majoring in teaching English as a foreign language. After graduating, she became a teacher at Satit Prasarnmit Demonstration School (Secondary). She worked there for almost ten years as an English teacher before she joined the Satit Prasarnmit International Programme (SPIP) as a Deputy Headteacher for Co-Curricular Activities.
Robyn Seglem
Professor at Illinois State UniversityDr. Robyn Seglem is a Professor in the School of Teaching and Learning at Illinois State University. She taught middle and high school ELA for nine years, is a nationally board- certified teacher, and serves as a co-editor of the journal Voices from the Middle. Her research interests center around literacy, technology, and inquiry through an equity lens.
Maria Senerchia
Lead Teacher at URI Child Development CenterMaria Senerchia M.S., ECE is a lead teacher and parent educator at the University of Rhode Island’s Child Development Center, which is an IALS affiliated and NAEYC accredited preschool on the Kingston Campus. As a laboratory school teacher, Maria supervises college aged students and adult learners in the early childhood field. She has expertise in early childhood education, child development and teaching young children as well as adult learners. She has experience providing professional development training around the Rhode Island on areas such as practicing peace in the preschool classroom, therapeutic play for children and families, and trauma-informed strategies in early childhood education.
Amy Smith
Dean at University of St. ThomasDr. Amy F. Smith (she/her) was appointed dean of the School of Education in March 2024. She has been a member of the University of St. Thomas faculty since 2001, when she joined the university as an associate professor in the Department of Teacher Education and previously served as department chair. A leader committed to excellence, social justice, community and equity, Smith is energized by the opportunity to collaborate with faculty, staff and students to advance the School of Education and its goals. She is driven by education's ability to make an impact in schools and communities, and has worked tirelessly throughout her career to maximize the connection between research and practice. The School of Education’s Four Cornerstones or foundational pillars guide her leadership and practice. As a scholar, Smith identifies as an “action researcher,” and her work aims to promote excellence in teacher preparation. Much of her current research and writing focuses on practice-based teacher education (PBTE) and the role of core practices of teaching in teacher preparation and professional development. As a recent TeachingWorks Fellow through the University of Michigan, she has led an initiative to implement high-leverage practices for teachers and educational leaders into coursework across the School of Education. A publication in The Reading Professor titled "Learning to Lead Group Discussions: Teacher Education at the Intersection of Content, Pedagogy, and Equity" exemplifies her commitment to social justice and excellence in teacher preparation. Smith feels at home at St. Thomas having received her bachelor’s degree (English and Elementary Education) and her master’s degree (Curriculum and Instruction) here. She earned her doctorate degree in Reading and Writing Instruction from the University of New Hampshire.
Rebecca Smith
Assistant Professor at University of North AlabamaDr. Rebecca Smith is an assistant professor of elementary education at the University of North Alabama. She teaches a variety of STEAM and assessment classes to undergraduate and graduate students at UNA. Her research interests include mentoring novice teachers, math anxiety in pre-service teachers, and STEAM integration. Dr. Smith has been in education for over twenty years. She obtained her doctorate degree from the University of Mississippi.
Kristi Sutter
Instructional Facilitator at ISU Laboratory SchoolsKristi Sutter is the Instructional Facilitator at Metcalf Laboratory School.
With 29 years of teaching experience, Kristi has experience coaching and co-teaching to amplify interdisciplinary learning throughout Illinois. Her passion is coaching novice and experienced teachers as they rethink teaching and learning.
Kim Tavares
Deputy Principal at University of Toronto School
Claire Underwood
Arlitt Center for Education, Research, & Sustainability, University of CIncinnatiClaire Underwood, MEEd is a Doctoral Student at the University of Cincinnati, where she conducts research with the Arlitt Center for Education, Research, & Sustainability and is the Editorial Assistant for the Children, Youth, Environments (CYE) Journal. Claire began her career as a community organizer and worked in social and environmental justice nonprofits for more than a decade. Her research focuses on how nature preschools are being impacted by and responding to climate change.
Anna Veijola
Teacher Educator of History at University of JyvaskylaAnna Veijola, Ph.D. (Ed.), is a teacher and teacher educator of history, social studies, and philosophy at the University of Jyväskylä Teacher Training School. In her research, she has examined teacher trainees’ pedagogical thinking, young Finns’ historical literacy and historical thinking as well as critical thinking and pedagogical philosophy.
Vanessa Vigna
Supervising Teacher at Campus School of Smith CollegeVanessa is a sixth grade supervising teacher at Smith College's lab school, the Campus School of Smith College, where she teaches literacy and humanities to students and guides teacher candidates. Before the Campus School, Vanessa was a literacy coach for a kindergarten to fifth grade public elementary school in Western Massachusetts, an instructional coach in another public school in Massachusetts, and a classroom teacher of various grades in Massachusetts and Washington. Her core values of joy, creativity, and belonging guide her life in and out of the classroom.
Lauren Wagner
Assistant Professor at University of North AlabamaDr. Lauren Wagner is an assistant professor of elementary and early childhood education at the University of North Alabama. She earned her Ph.D. from Florida State University. Currently in her 19th year as an educator, she teaches science methods, classroom management, and assessment courses to UNA undergraduate and graduate students. Her research interests include elementary STEM curriculum, place based learning for preservice teachers, and environmental education.
Jan Wilhelm Dieckmann
Teacher at Bielefeld UniversityJan Wilhelm Dieckmann has been a primary school teacher at Laborschule Bielefeld from 2015 to 2023. Since 2023, he has been a Research Assistant at the Laboratory School Research Unit at Bielefeld University´s Faculty of Educational Science. He has already worked on numerous research projects. Among others, on the topics of democratic education, inclusion, and mathematics. E-Mail: j.dieckmann@uni-bielefeld.de
Mary Beth Wright
Director of University of CincinnatiMary Beth Wright, M.A., has been in the field of early childhood education over 18 years. She began her career as a preschool teacher at the Arlitt Child Development Center and has served as the Director of the lab school since 2011. Mary Beth has taught courses for the University of Cincinnati ECE program and worked on several grants and special projects including the writing of Arlitt Instructional Media materials. She has presented at international, state, and local conferences, has been featured in ECE media programming, and has served on boards dedicated to advancing and supporting the field of ECE.
Mary Beth Wright
Director of University of CincinnatiMary Beth Wright holds an MA in Educational Studies and has been in the field of early childhood education over 18 years. She began her career as a preschool teacher at the Arlitt Child Development Center and has served as the Director of the lab school since 2011. Mary Beth has taught courses for the University of Cincinnati ECE program and worked on many grants and special projects including the writing of Arlitt Instructional Media materials. She has presented at state and local conferences, has been featured in ECE media programming, and has served on boards dedicated to advancing and supporting the field of ECE.