TENESSEE PARTICIPANTS SIMONE GRAY

Simone gray is a Spanish Teacher at White Station High School in Memphis, Tennessee. She is a proud wife of Zachary and mother of Josiah. She has been teaching for 5 years; her experience spans the K-12 classrooms and a variety of subjects. Her educational background includes a dual Bachelor of Science in Biology and in Chemistry from Rust College, a Master of Art in Education from Union University, and she is currently pursuing an Educational Specialist Degree in Leadership and Administration from Union University. She is a member of Kappa Delta Pi International Honors Society in Education. Simone is originally from Brazil and her multicultural background allows her to view education and students’ needs through unique lenses that challenges her to seek deeper understanding of how to reach students individually. She believes that every student can succeed if we take the time to build relationships and show them they are capable of reaching goals beyond their own imagination. She is the cheer sponsor for the White Station Basketball Cheerleading Team, she tutors students in Language and Science subjects, she involves her students in the community by participating in the Memphis in May Educational Activities yearly, she volunteers in a local nonprofit organization focused on underprivileged youth educational and athletic success, and she is a Teacher Leader in the Instructional Leadership team at her school. As a graduate from the Delta Teacher Efficacy Campaign, she has been able to change the way she views education by paying closer attention to educational issues as stereotype threat and work to decrease the learning gap by reversing such issues in her own classroom. She is beyond grateful to be chosen as one of the agents to bring forth lasting change in her school, district, and community through T.A.G. JODIE JONES

Jodie Jones is a native of Collierville, TN. In 2013, she graduated Magna Cum Laude from the historic Fisk University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in music Education. She is also an Alumna of Teach for America 2014 Memphis Corps. Jodie understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach for learners, and enjoys the necessity of presenting subject matter in ways that individuals can comprehend.

Her endorsements include: Elementary Education K-6, middle grades 4-8, and SPED modified K-12. Her philosophy of teaching is revolved around her students and is grounded within steady perseverance in service for them, their families, and communities.

Jodie is currently a Graduate Student at Memphis Theological Seminary. She is pursuing a Master of Art Christian Education Degree with a Social Justice Specialization. DR. JOLINEA PEGUES

Jolinea is a Special Education Teacher at Melrose high school in Memphis, TN where she co-teaches Algebra II and Geometry. She began her teaching career in 2006. She received her Doctorate in Education degree from Union University with an emphasis in Instructional Leadership.

Jolinea believes that learning begins at birth and ends at death. She has shown this by participating in programs that have afforded her the opportunity to be better for herself and the students that she serves. These programs include being an Emerging Leader through New Leaders for New Schools (2014). Being a participant in the DTEC Teacher Efficacy Academy II where she was awarded the “Change Agent” Award (2015). In the spring of 2016, she was selected as a Tennessee Educator Fellow through the State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE), which focuses on education policy.

Currently, she is a National Academy of Advanced Teacher Education fellow (NAATE). Dr. Pegues serves as the West Tennessee Regional Lead for the Tennessee Educator Fellowship through SCORE. Recently, the Commissioner of Education appointed her to the Tennessee Department of Education Assessment Taskforce 3.0. Dr. Pegues is a member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority, Inc., initiated through the Epsilon Kappa Chapter at the University of Memphis. She is an active member of the Shelby County Tennessee Alumnae Chapter (SCTAC). FLORIDA PARTICIPANTS DR. CONSTANCE GOODMAN

Dr. Constance Goodman serves as an Associate Instructor at the University of Central Florida, College of Education and Human Performance. In addition to her role as faculty, she is the Coordinator for the Supporting Teacher Education Pre-Professionals (STEP) Program, a unique opportunity to connect with prospective teachers in their first year of college.

Through a partnership with Orange County Public Schools, Dr. Goodman has been instrumental in college wide efforts to develop a comprehensive service learning model that prepares candidates to teach in diverse settings. Beyond the classroom, her intent to build capacity towards equitable outcomes for all children is most noticeable in her role as a member on the Evans Community School Cabinet and Co-Convener for the Supporting High Needs Populations Special Interest Group at UCF.

Dr. Goodman joined UCF in June 2005. Prior to coming to UCF, she worked as a Guidance Counselor and Special Education Teacher and devoted years of professional service to Duval, Clay and Palm Beach County schools.

According to her students, “Dr. Constance Goodman is a positive role model. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to preparing teachers to work with all types of children, regardless of background or ability, is noticed in everything she does in and out of the classroom”. Dr. Constance Goodman was recognized for this commitment in 2016, as a recipient of the Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award. DEIDRA E. JOHNSON

Deidra E. Johnson has been an Educator, Mentor, Innovator, and Servant Leader in Broward County Schools since August 2001. She has certifications in Educational Leadership All Levels, School Principal All Levels, English 6-12, with both ESOL and Gifted Endorsements. A native of Ft. Lauderdale, Deidra is a proud product of Broward County Schools. After graduation, she began her pursuit for Higher Education at Tennessee State University earning a Bachelor of Art in English in 2001, with Teacher Certification. A lover of knowledge, Deidra attended Florida Atlantic University where she completed propel and earned a Master of Education in Educational Leadership in 2012. She believes that her path is and has always been purpose driven. Having served as a NESS (T.I.E.R.) Mentor for eight years, Deidra's work also included leading online instructional programs to assist teachers with standard-based lessons, coordinating and facilitating technology PLCS that enhance student engagement, as well as developing and monitoring school improvement plan. In light of these and her other various work experiences, Deidra’s career path has truly been preparing her for such a time as the one upon her. Accordingly, becoming an Induction Coach has served to align Deidra's qualifications and skill sets with her desire for service to increase teacher effectiveness that improves student achievement and builds capacity in schools with teacher retention. In fact, she truly lives her life as a living sacrifice, and as a result, Deidra has committed herself to doing her part to develop ‘a hope and a future’ for all those she may encounter. Deidra is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and holds positions in her local chapter as well as serves on the Regional Leadership Team. She enjoys reading, writing, spending time with family and friends, spreading the good news, traveling, and sports. DR. MARY LITTLE

Dr. Mary little is a Professor in Exceptional Student Education at the University of Central Florida and also currently serves as the Coordinator of Graduate programs. She received her Graduate and Undergraduate degrees in Special Education and Curriculum and Instruction from the State University College at Buffalo and her Doctorate in Special Education from the University of Kansas. Her professional experiences in the K-12 schools include roles as a Secondary Teacher, Co-Teacher, Program Coordinator and Principal. Her interests include evidence-based instructional practices, interventions, teacher efficacy, and student learning related to teacher learning. She teaches courses at the graduate and undergraduate levels using traditional and on-line formats, specifically in mathematics, assessment, instruction, action research, and program evaluation. In addition, she has received in excess of $15 million in external funding for research and development from federal, state, and private funding agencies including the Institute for Educational Sciences (IES) and the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). Currently, she serves as the Principal Investigator for Building Bridges in Teacher Education, a federally-funded research and development project through OSEP. The purpose of this project is to research, develop, and enhance the existing graduate programs at UCF to ensure highly-qualified special education teachers in the content areas of mathematics and science to improve learning outcomes for secondary students, especially within diverse, urban schools. Among her numerous articles, chapters, and books, two recent publications are entitled, Response to Intervention For Teachers: Classroom instructional problem solving and RTI and mathematics: practical tools for teachers in K-8 Classrooms. DR. SUZANNE MARTIN

Dr. Suzanne Martin is a Professor at the University of Central Florida (UCF). She holds a Ph.D. in Special Education and served as an Educational Specialist in the U. S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) for four years. She served as President of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and as President of the Teacher Education Division of CEC; she was awarded the Teacher of Excellence Award, Teacher Education Division and Pearson Publishing and Development, April 2009; and, she was named one of the Top 25 Teacher Educators in the state of Florida in Fall of 2012. She is the Director of the National Urban Special Education Leadership (NUSELI), a federally funded Doctoral program with a 100% graduation rate. Fourteen scholars are enrolled in NUSELI. Dr. Martin serves on the Very Special Arts of Florida State Board of Directors, works internationally in partnership with SIAS International University in China, and has assisted the University of Belgrade, Special Education Program in Serbia with their annual Special Education International Research Conference. She participated as an invited speaker at the division of international Special Education Services 2017 Round Table in Sofia, Bulgaria where she connected to the Center for Inclusive Education with whom she now is partnering. Dr. Martin currently is surveying international individuals who work in early childhood education for all children to determine state of the early childhood services for young children with unique abilities. She has been awarded project funding over $5.5 million dollars and is receiving support from her university’s research office to write and submit a National Institute of Health (NIH) $5 million application addressing the connections between exercise physiology and successful outcomes for young children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. DR. MARTHA S. LUE STEWART Dr. Martha S. Lue Stewart is a full-time Professor in the Department of Child, Family, & Community Sciences, Exceptional Education Program Area, at the University of Central Florida. A native of Monticello, Florida, she attended the historic Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University and was the first person in her family to attend and graduate college. She was also the first African American female promoted to the rank of Professor at UCF, where she currently serves as the Program Coordinator of the Supporting High Needs Populations Certificate in the School of Teaching, Learning, & Leadership. Earlier in her post-graduate career, she served as a Post-Doctoral Fellow through the Mcknight Jr. Faculty Fellowship, at AACTE, where she studied the underrepresentation of teachers of color in our nation’s schools. At UCF, she was the Founding Director of the Teacher Education for America’s Minorities (TEAM) Project, a Ford Foundation initiative that seeks to address the recruitment, retention, and induction of persons of color into teacher education. Dr. Lue Stewart served as a Facilitator for the highly successful Urban Teacher Residency Program (UTRP), a residency program that placed faculty in Title I schools to offer coursework and professional development within a designated school. In addition to teaching courses in Exceptional Student Education and the Supporting High Needs Populations Certificate, she is a lead researcher on a state- funded grant designed to address preventative strategies in decreasing situational environmental circumstances that impede the growth and development of young African American males. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, she previously served on the National Boards of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and the Delta Research & Education Foundation (DREF). Dr. Lue Stewart also served on the Leadership Team of the Delta Teacher Efficacy Campaign (DTEC) through DREF, and was a member of its Advisory Council, and the Sisters Scholars Initiative. HARVEY STRIBLING Mr. Harvey J. Stribling, Jr. is an Instructional Literacy Coach at Nathan B. Young Elementary School in the Miami-Dade County Public School System. Mr. Stribling is a valued member of the school's Leadership Team and is highly regarded as a subject matter expert in Literacy. He is on the Educational Excellence School Advisory Council (EESAC) and a consulting member of the school's Response to Intervention (RTI) Team. Mr. Stribling has had unique experiences in education that has allowed him to share his perspective, conduct action research, and learn from learning communities and scholars. He has participated on numerous task forces and initiatives including the M-DCPS Standardized Testing and Assessment of Educational Progress Committee, Teacher of the Year Taskforce, Delta Teacher Efficacy Campaign, and the University of Florida Lastinger Center Teacher Fellows Program. Currently, Mr. Stribling is serving on the Florida Department of Education’s (FDOE’s) Title I Committee of Practitioners (COP). August of 2016, Stribling was nominated and selected by legacy Miami magazine as one of “South Florida's Top Black Educators.” Stribling holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Science Education from Jackson State University. Understanding the importance of continued education, Mr. Stribling pursued advanced degrees from Barry University earning a Master of Science Degree in Reading and a Specialist in Education Degree in Educational Leadership. Mr. Stribling believes that educating the whole child includes caring for the mental health of students as result of his passion he is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health from Lamar University. Stribling is a member of the United Teacher of Dade, Dade Reading Council, International Literacy Association, Florida School Counseling Association and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Stribling is an advocate for self-care. He believes that you can’t pour from an empty cup; therefore, outside of his work in education, he enjoys traveling, enjoying the company of family and friends, reading, and volunteering in his community and at his local parish, Holy Redeemer Catholic Church. NORTH CAROLINA PARTICIPANTS PAMELA CRISWELL

Pamela Criswell is a licensed Special Education Teacher holding her license in North Carolina and Virginia. She is in her 17th year of teaching. Pamela received her M.A. in School Administration and has current licensure in North Carolina and Virginia. She is also a National Board Certified Teacher. She currently teaches Freshman Seminar at Falls Lake Academy Charter School in Creedmoor, NC. Pamela has had the privilege of educating students in general and Special Education classrooms in Maryland, Georgia, and North Carolina. Upon earning her B.S. in Psychology and a M.Ed. in Educational Psychology. Teaching was never in Pamela’s view, but when she got an opportunity to conduct training in one of her earlier positions, she realized that teaching was her destiny. Pamela believes that education is an amazing part of life and we all should take every opportunity to receive all that we can. When she enters her classroom each day, she has the intent to capture, inspire, and teach each student in her classroom. Pamela has the intent to treat each student individually and to be culturally responsive. Pamela wants her students to leave her class truly believing that they can conquer the world and make it a better place. Pamela tries to expose them daily to world events and push them to be critical thinkers. What better way to expand her knowledge and expectations than to advocate for change? As a participant in the T.A.G. Program, Pamela is extremely excited to have the opportunity to advocate for great change not only in her community but nationwide. She is extremely excited about this endeavor. Nevertheless, Pamela is also the proud mother of two children and four grandchildren! MERISHA D. LEAK

Merisha D. Leak is from Charlotte, NC. She is currently in her seventh year of teaching, with five years at the secondary level and currently working on her second year at the middle grades level.

Merisha attended the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in undergrad and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English. She also has a Master of Education Degree in Education Leadership from the University of Roehampton in London, UK.

Merisha is most interested in working to promote equity in schools across the nation by providing access to opportunities for young people regardless of where they come from. Merisha is looking forward to participating in this amazing opportunity to promote advocacy and change in her local community! RENNICE SHERARD

Rennice Sherard currently lives and teaches in Greenville, NC. She is passionate about early education and has taught for 9 years in kindergarten and first grade. Rennice has an Undergraduate Degree in Child Development and Family Relations from as well a Masters of Education in Education/Teacher Leadership.

She is actively involved in her local NEA organization and serves as her school’s Beginning Teacher Lead through Pitt County Education Association. She also is the PBIS Coach for her school which provides positive behavior support for students and intervention resources for teachers.

Rennice is also a member of the Delta Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma Education Sorority which provides resources for beginning teachers. TIA DYWAN GILLIAM-WILSON

Tia Dywan Gilliam-Wilson is currently enrolled in the Post-Masters Certification Program in Educational Leadership at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She received a Master of Education Degree in Educational Management from Strayer University, a Bachelor of Arts in African American studies and a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Alamance Community College. Tia is Teacher at an elementary school in Elon, North Carolina. She lives by Luke 12:48, “to whom much is given, much is will be required.” She believes in giving back and advocating for others; especially children. A strong advocate for 21st century learning, she involves her students in collaboration, digital literacy, critical thinking and problem-solving to help students thrive in today’s world. Her professional interests focus on global education, technology, student engagement and culturally responsive teaching. She is currently participating in the Global Educator Blended Professional Development through Alamance-Burlington School System. Tia participated in DTEC’s Teacher Efficacy Academy I and served as an Instructional Coach for TEA II. Tia is looking forward continuing the work of DTEC as she participates in the TAG pilot program. She also is a former AmeriCorps member with Burlington Housing Authority’s project D.O.E (Developing Opportunities to Excel) and she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Tia resides in Gibsonville, North Carolina with her husband Kojo, son Trevonte and daughter Taya. Tia is the author of three children’s books. Two of which have been translated in Spanish. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, writing, cooking and baking, shopping and traveling. TEXAS PARTICIPANTS RAECHEL BROUSSARD Positively impacting the field of education for the past 12 years, Raechel Broussard has worked directly with Title I schools and districts throughout her tenure as an Educator. She has served as a Secondary Social Studies and ELA Teacher, Social Studies Department Chairperson, ELA and Social Ttudies Curriculum Writer, New Teacher Mentor, and Athletic Coach. She is currently a Secondary English Language Arts and Social Studies Instructional Coach in Sheldon ISD in Houston, Texas. Miss Broussard's tireless efforts in education have been recognized in several ways including her Teacher of the Year Award, Cambridge Who’s Who Among Executive and Professional Women in Teaching and Education Award, DTEC Teacher Efficacy Academy Strong Arm Award, and recognition from her local, state, and national legislators. Miss Broussard holds an Undergraduate Degree from , a Master's Degree from Texas , and is currently in the dissertation phase of her Doctoral Degree. Miss Broussard is a member of several activist, social, and community organizations. As an active member of the American Federation of Teachers, Miss Broussard serves as a Facilitator for the Teacher Leader Program and a National Trainer for Managing Behavior in School Communities and Delivering Effective Professional Development. She has also been trained in various elements of teacher and student efficacy, social justice, culturally responsive pedagogy, and community improvement and involvement initiatives. Miss Broussard has facilitated trainings across the nation. Some of her trainings and presentations have taken place at the Texas Region 4 Annual Social Studies Conference, the University of Central Florida, 's middle Country Schools Superintendent's Conference Day, the North Syracuse School District, AFT’s Summer Educator Academy, and the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference. Miss Broussard has dedicated her career to improving academic achievement for all students and building capacity in educators. BRENDA JACKS

Brenda Jacks has been in the education field for 23 years, and has taught on the elementary, middle, and high school level. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Southern University, Master of Arts in Teaching Degree from Kent State University, and is currently working on her Doctoral Degree in Education with a focus in Curriculum and Instruction at Texas Wesleyan University.

She has earned her Teaching and Principal Certification, and is also an AVID Staff Developer who facilitates AVID trainings across the country. Brenda jacks lives in Mansfield, Texas. CHERISSA JORDAN

Cherissa Jordan is an educator at the Kolarik 9th Grade Campus in Channelview, Texas. She is currently working on her 11th year of educating our youth. She is fortunate enough to be able to teach two AVID elective courses to 9th graders, while maintaining her special education duties as the Campus Behavior Specialist and Department Chair. Cherissa enjoys being a living proof that 1st generation college students are successful and can help lead the change for today’s educational youth. Martin Luther King, Jr. said it best, “the function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education”. In addition to teaching, Cherissa is the coach for two sports, volleyball and powerlifting. She enjoys participating in community service/service learning projects with her students. While being a full time Educator, Cherissa is a full time mother to a bright and beautiful 5-year-old daughter with a charismatic personality and a wonderful wife to her best friend in life. Cherissa stands for obtaining a higher education and being successful in life. Jumping Over Roadblocks, while Determining All Necessary avenues to pursue towards a higher education.

. LEVATTA LEVELS

Ms. Levatta L. Levels is a 28 year veteran educator in which she has been an elementary teacher, assistant principal, principal, bilingual specialist, director, assistant superintendent and interim superintendent of Desoto ISD. Currently, Ms. Levels is the Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Schools, Student Support Services and School Improvement in Desoto independent school district. As owner of Higher Levels Educational Group, Ms. Levels has provided professional development throughout the country. For the inaugural implementation of DTEC, Ms. Levels served as an Academy Facilitator, in which she served as an online instructor for the Teacher Efficacy Academy -TEA I and TEA II. She managed participants in the TEA-assigned region strengthening teacher effectiveness. Working with the Texas Education Agency, she provided principal training and mentoring to 50 plus principals throughout the state of Texas over the last five years. Known for her “leadership abilities” she has worked with many schools towards improving student achievement and principal leadership. She has served many professional and civic organizations, including Delegate to the Texas Democratic Convention representing Senate District 23, Desoto Chamber of Commerce Board, Leadership Southwest Board, Big Brothers Big Sisters Southern Region Board, University of North Texas Exes Board, and the University of North Texas Advisory Council. She is active with the Texas Association of School Administrators, National Council of Negro Women, Parent Teacher Association, UNT Trailblazers, Texas Counseling Association, Texas Association of Black School Educators, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, and the Zeta Eta Alumnae Association. Ms. Levels is a Doctoral Student at Texas A & M University-Commerce. She earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Education with a focus on Education Administration from the University of North Texas and completed the Superintendent Certification program with the -Victoria. She is most proud of her two children Leah and Lofton. DR. JENNIFER MCMILLEN

Dr. Jennifer McMillen attended the University of Texas at Arlington graduating with her Ph.D. in Marketing. She is currently in her fifth year of teaching middle school math in Fort Worth, Texas. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, doing word puzzles, and playing with Mishi, her shar-pei. EURHONDA MORGAN

Eurhonda Morgan is married with one son and has been an Educator in the Mathematics Department at Alief Edward “Doc” Taylor High School located in the Alief independent School District since the Fall of 2000. Eurhonda is currently a Doctoral Student (Organizational Leadership: emphasis in k-12) at Grand Canyon University. She earned her Undergraduate Degree from Texas Southern University in Accounting with a minor in Finance. Eurhonda earned her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University. Since entering into Education, she has been a past participant and continued active member of the Rice University Mathematics Project (RUSMP). Eurhonda has been the Team Leader for Algebra I and Algebra II for many years. She is also a past curriculum writer for Math Models (MMA) and RUSMP website. Eurhonda loves teaching. She believes that putting children and students first should be at the core and standard operating procedures for all educators. She also love reading, watching TV and spending time with her granddaughter. Before starting her doctoral journey, she was afforded the opportunity to participate in the Delta Teacher Efficacy Campaign (DTEC) from October 2015 – March 2016. Her cohort had two face- to-face meetings. The meetings provided time for collaboration on five strands of education to improve teacher efficacy and the facilitation of change agents for education. The five strands of education studied to improve teacher efficacy were: Student engagement, culturally responsive teaching, classroom management, literacy & math content efficacy, Instructional strategies KIESHLA C. WYLIE

Kieshla C. Wylie began her career in education as a Kindergarten Teacher in 2001 in Dallas, TX. Kieshla has taught third grade reading, fourth grade writing, and fifth grade reading. She has also served three years in the role of Campus Instructional Coach. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from Paul Quinn College and a Master’s Degree in Education Administration from Concordia University.

At Holland Elementary, she established and ran the African American Success Initiative, aimed to educate all students for success by eradicating the achievement gap and increasing access to opportunities for students of color by exposing them to various types of colleges and universities and engaging students in conversations about their goals and futures.

She has been a presenter at education conferences, to include TABSE, Dallas ISD Principal’s Conference, and Ennis ISD. She is currently the principal of H. I. Holland at Lisbon Elementary School in Dallas, TX. In December 2016, she was named the Dallas ISD “Principal of the Year” Principal’s Choice winner. GEORGIA PARTICIPANTS KANTRELL GIBSON-BROWN

Kantrell Gibson-Brown is currently a READ 180 Support Teacher in one of the third largest school districts in Georgia. For the past several years, she has been a Reading Interventionist Specialists, Language Arts Teacher, and Elementary Education Teacher. Currently, she serves as a TEA Facilitator and a proud member of the DTEC Leadership Team. During her 18 years of teaching, Kantrell has had the pleasure of touching the lives of both children and adults. Her journey includes Florida, Georgia, and international teaching. Kantrell received her teaching credentials from Nova southeastern University of Davie, Florida. Her daily goal is to deliver individualized adjusted reading instruction and remediate students who need assistance with various reading strategies as well as promote higher order critical thinking skills. In Kantrell’s spare time, she enjoys reading, cooking, spending time with family, and traveling. DR. CHAR-SHENDA COVINGTON

Dr. Char-shenda D. Covington is proud to serve as the Chief Academic Officer of Fulton Leadership Academy. She has experience in supporting the executive/instructional leadership teams in schools across the nation. She has created, developed, and monitored the effective implementation of state standards, evaluated the quality of teaching and learning, created assessments at the school and district levels. More recently, she served as a School Improvement Consultant and Literacy Trainer with the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) in , GA. Her primary responsibility with SREB was to ensure that literacy was the bedrock of the curriculum, along with training teachers and school leadership to implement effective change in relation to the common core state standards and overall school improvement in school districts across the nation. Dr. Covington has also been a Principal, Assistant Principal, Chief Curriculum Director, and Assessment Developer at the state and district levels. She's facilitated/participated in teacher-leader development across the nation. Dr. Covington has received numerous awards and recognition as an Agent of Change in the field of education. Char-shenda holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from , a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Central Michigan University, and a Doctorate of Education (PhD) from Capella University with a Specialization in Educational Leadership and Administration. In spring of 2016, she completed her second Doctorate, a Doctorate of Dducation (EdD) from Northcentral University specializing in organizational leadership, with a focus on school improvement. As a first-generation college graduate, Dr. Char-shenda Covington prides herself on being a passionate voice for all students, regardless of their societal constructs, letting them know they have the ability and capacity to succeed, no matter the odds. EULA LEWIS-SPIVEY

Eula Spivey- Lewis is a 28 year Educator for DeKalb County School District in Stone Mountain, Georgia. She received her B.S. in Early Childhood Education from Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She has enthusiastically taught several grade levels at Fairington Elementary School since 1989. She is dedicated to serving the students, cohorts, stakeholders, and parents at Fairington Elementary School. She is a dedicated wife of 19 years to Mr. Clarence Spivey and proud parent to seven vivacious children. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc for 30 years. Currently a member of Stone Mountain-Lithonia Alumnae Chapter(SM-LAC) in Lithonia, Georgia, were she serves as Recording Secretary for the 2017-2019 sororal year. As an Educator, she’s worked tirelessly as a Mentor, Teacher Support Specialist, Grade Chairperson, P.T.S.A. recording secretary (Fairington Elementary), Sunshine Committee Chairperson (Fairington Elementary), P.T.S.A. President (Rockbridge Elementary), P.T.S.A. Treasurer (Stone Mountain Mmiddle and High school), Teacher of the Year, gifted teacher endorsement participant, Georgia Association for Gifted Children, Delta Teacher Efficacy Campaign’s Teacher Efficacy Academy participant, ESOL endorsement participant and a member of National Educator Association. Within our community Mrs. Lewis-Spivey has exhibited leadership roles such as a Girl Scouts Troop Leader, Central Dekalb Cheer Coach, Stone Mountain High School Varsity Cheer Team Mom, Wade Walker Park Executive Board Member-at-large, Windy Ridge Board Member, Windy Ridge HOA Secretary, Executive Board Member for SM-LAC, Educational Development Committee Chair for SM-LAC, a member of National Council of Negro Women, Inc. and a Decatur YMCA Board Member. SHONDA MORGAN

Shonda Morgan is an Eleventh Grade American Literature and Composition Teacher and a Professional Learning Liaison who works at Tucker High School. She believes all children can learn regardless of their circumstances; many of them need someone to help them maneuver through life. Shonda is pleased to see her students make impressive gains year after year; her hard work is very rewarding. Also, Shonda is an adjunct instructor at Gwinnett Technical College in the Adult Education Department. She is trained to teach International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement Literature; she uses strategies gleaned from these areas to help her students excel. Shonda’s greatest reward and joy is her son, Jalaani, who is a sophomore at Morehouse College, majoring in Music Humanities; he is a member of the Marching Maroon Tigers and Naval ROTC as well. As a Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University alumnus, Shonda is ever so proud of him in keeping the HBCU spirit alive. Moving forward, Shonda plans to pursue a degree in Educational Law; she is compelled to assist those who are helpless and know not where to turn; being an attorney has been a life-long dream of Shonda’s. While not dreaming, Shonda enjoys reading anything she can get her hands on, baking, cooking, and working on being a better her. ROBIN MARSHALL- WATSON

Robin Lynn Watson as raised in a rural town in Mississippi. She overcame many obstacles through determination and persistence. Robin was one of four children raised by her single mother. Because of this, education was a primary gateway to a better life. In her earlier years of motherhood, robin attended junior college where she could work, attend school and care for her young child. College life was grim because her family didn’t have a car which made the commute most difficult. However, she persevered and finished her Associates Degree in Arts and continued on to attend Jackson State University. With the assistance of financial aid, work-study and a part-time job, robin was able to obtain an apartment to finish school and care for her daughter. Robin’s first teaching job was in her hometown, Hollandale, MS, where she taught a variety of language arts subjects and coached basketball for three years. During this time, she commuted two hours to Jackson State to finish her Master’s Degree. There she met her husband who supported her financially and spiritually. She and her husband moved to a larger city in their pursuit of knowledge and financial opportunities. The family set out to move to Atlanta Georgia where the pay was twice her salary and learning opportunities for her daughter flourished. Robin has been teaching in DeKalb County School District since 2011. She is currently working at Stephenson High School as an 11th Grade American Literature Teacher. Her oldest daughter is a senior in high school and she has a younger addition to the family who will be starting kindergarten next fall. Despite the rough conditions of coming from, rural town, robin knew that education would be the path to lead her to a better life. She continues to educate herself as much possible and her journey through life continues. JUDITH A. WILLIAMS

Judith A. Williams is an energetic educator. She has a passion for educating our youth and mentoring teachers. Presently, she serves as an Instructional Site Facilitator for the content area social studies in middle school. Through this leadership capacity, Judith enjoys assisting teachers in the development and implementation of evidence-based high quality instruction that addresses educational challenges at school sites and aligns to the Clayton County Public School District Academic Achievement Plan. Judith collaborates with coordinators in monitoring and supporting the implementation of a quality core curriculum in social studies. In the past, she has served as building lead mentor for first year and veteran teachers entering the Clayton County Public School System. She can be described as, a dedicated and student-focused educator professional who is committed to providing a well-balanced, supportive, and engaging learning environment for all students. A hard working and trusted educator who strives to collaborate with all members of the school, the community to meet the needs of students and faculty and staff members by promoting the vision and mission of the Clayton County Public School System.

Judith is from Florida and now lives in the Metro-Atlanta, Georgia area. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education with a Minor in Slow Learner Disability from Florida A&M University. Later, she obtained a Masters of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Troy State University and an Educational Specialist/All except Dissertation in Teacher Leadership for Walden University. Judith Specializes Endorsement in Reading, Social science, English, Teacher Support/Coaching, and Teacher Leadership. She is the Executive Director of the Kidadah Project, Inc., a mentoring program for girls. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority, Inc., Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education, and Crimson & Cream Toastmaster. She is the mother of two wonder children Courtney and James Dunston. DC-MD-VA PARTICIPANTS THERION E. BAKER II

Therion E. Baker II (T.J.), is a native of Reading, PA. He is the son of Therion E. and Mary G. Baker. At an early age, T.J. was shown the virtues of education and having a strong spiritual base. T.J. graduated from Governor Mifflin High school, in Shillington, PA. T.J. began his journey of excellence during high school by being a NAACP Education Award Winner, Who’s Who Award winning student, and a National Youth Leadership student were he spent time helping the president work on issues affect young people in America. T.J. went onto Temple University where he went on to flourish as a Student Leader. He earned his Bachelor’s in Computer Information Science and Business Administration, with a concentration in Sports Marketing. He also served as Student Body President for two years where he had the opportunity to create and be the Founder of his own mentoring group that took juveniles who had criminal records and illustrated to them the virtues of higher education though learning. T.J. Had a 98% rate with his program and that is where his passion grew stronger to help young people, especially young men of color. T.J. also created a safer campus through his Lighting Programs, the first ever student shuttle service, adding more campus safety officers, and making Tuttleman Learning Center a 24-hour location for studying, technology, and learning. T.J. Also received his Master’s from Temple University, where he worked directly with the School District of to create a literacy program for middle school students. T.J.’s program helped middle school students who where three levels or more behind get on grade level or even higher. He had the opportunity to research and instruct literacy coaches who implemented the program directly. T.J., for his service, was elected to Temple’s Hall of Fame and was the graduation speaker. T.J. Went on to work in the Philadelphia School System for several years before becoming a Founding Dean for City on the Hill Public Charter School. He then transitioned to the District of Columbia where he serves in several roles as an Educator, Consultant, Author, Leader, Mentor, Role model, and Coach. KEISHA L. CHANDLER Keisha is a Certified Educator with 20 years of experience in K-12 school districts as well as Adult Education, on-line learning, assessments, and curriculum and instruction. Keisha was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She attended the historical Philadelphia High School for Girls, and received her Bachelor of Science from Temple University, majoring in Elementary Education. Keisha began her successful education career teaching kindergarten in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Upon moving back to Pennsylvania, she began teaching English/Communications to students in grades six through nine in Chester, PA and then on to Camden, NJ where she held many positions including Reading Specialist, middle school Language Arts teacher, and Literacy Coach. To underjudge her transition into expanding career options within the field of education but outside of the classroom, Keisha returned to school and graduated from St. Joseph’s University, in Philadelphia and received a Master of Science in Training and Organizational Development with a Concentration in Adult Education. Keisha became an Educational Consultant in 2007 where she consulted school districts in the areas of curriculum, assessment, data analysis, and instruction. She was employed as a Consultant, Implementation manager, and Professional Development Manager with a variety of companies such as Standards Solution, Inc., SunGard Public Sector, K-12, American Reading Company to name a few. Keisha formed her own education consulting and project management firm, Strategies 2 Success, Inc. and led large-scale professional development projects with the School District of Philadelphia, Chicago Public Schools, and Department of Education. Keisha became a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in the Spring of 2012 through New Jersey Garden City Alumnae Chapter and served as a Regional Project Manager for the Delta Teacher Efficacy Campaign - Teacher Efficacy Academy. ALESHA K. RUSSEY

Alesha K. Russey is a Transformative STEM educator. She was born in Illinois with strong Mississippi family and educational roots. Ms. Russey currently resides in the Washington, DC area. Ms. Russey‘s community commitment is extended to the Jackson State University National Alumni Association and the HBCU affiliates. Moreover, Ms. Russey’s public involvement encompasses her active membership with Federal City Alumnae Chapter (DC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated and Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia.

Remarkably, Ms. Russey was in the Inaugural Delta Teacher Efficacy Campaign’s (DTEC) cohort which featured Best Practices for Teachers Believing = students achieving. Also, Ms. Russey is one of the featured authors in the 2016-2017 Special Edition PHILLIS Journal which Salutes Educators and the Art of Educating. Ms. Russey is a comprehensive servant compelled by compassion from the community to the classroom. VERONICA MENEFEE

Veronica Menefee has been an Educator for over 17 years and has taught on every level from pre –K to adult during her career. She spent the majority of her career in middle and high schools. In addition to holding an Administrator I Certification, Veronica also has Special Education, Reading, Social Studies, and Language Arts endorsements. She earned a Certificate of Advanced Study in Education in Instructional Leadership from Notre Dame of Maryland University. She holds Degrees from Morgan State University in English (M.A.) And in Language Arts Secondary Education (B.A).

Veronica was an Eastern Region Participant in the first Delta Teacher Efficacy Campaign and an Instructional Coach for the second cohort. She also serves as an Advisory Board Member for Teaching Tolerance through the Southern Poverty Law Center (2015 to present).

Currently, she is a Special Education Consultant with Catholic Charities Head Start of City. DANIELLE MILES

Danielle R. Miles is a Special Educator. She began her teaching career in 2003 as a long-term substitute with Manassas City Public Schools. Danielle earned her Bachelor’s degree in Advertising from the University of Florida in 1996; her MBA from Nova Southeastern University in 2003, her Master’s in Education/Special Education from George Mason University in 2006, and her Master’s in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University in 2013. She served in the capacity of Special Education Department Chair for 10 years with Prince William County Public Schools. Danielle continued her career with the District of Columbia Public Schools as an Intervention Specialist working with Special Education and at risk students to improve their reading skills. She also served as athletic director, and served on the discipline team. She is currently a Team Leader and a Special Education Department Chair with Arlington County Public Schools. Danielle is also a member of the Arlington Education Association (AEA)/Virginia Education Association (VEA)/National Education Association (NEA) where she has held several leadership positions. In 2005, Danielle was selected to be a Japan Fulbright Scholar where she traveled to Japan with 200 educators and administrators to learn about their education system. She was selected by her principal to serve as one of the Academic Parent Teacher Team (APTT) Champions for the 2017-2018 school year. She is a Facilitator for Challenging Racism: “learning how through stories and conversations.” She is a member of the illustrious Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. This year, Danielle started an all-girls mentor group for at risk black and brown girls in 7th and 8th grade called ASPIRE (Ambitious, Sensational, Passionate, Intelligent, Radiant, & Extraordinary Young ladies) to improve self-image awareness, self-confidence, self-satisfaction and reaching personal potential. Danielle lives in Stafford, Virginia. JOE ANN OATIS

Joe Ann Oatis’ teaching career began in the Baltimore City Public Schools. In 1997, she moved to the Baltimore County Public Schools where she currently works as a Vocal Music Teacher. In 1998, she organized The Boys Choir of Powhatan as a means to increase the academic achievements of young African-American males and to have an educational experience best described as “Exploring Possibilities through Travel and Song”, the group’s theme. She has planned and successfully completed 14 educational spring tours with the choir visiting more than 18 states and 28 cities.

Ms. Oatis organized a Summer Music and Performing Arts Camp in 1998. The camp offers a music enrichment program that includes vocal training, theory, sight singing, stage presence, choreography, performance etiquette and a community service component. In 2004 Joe Ann organized an after-school program for girls to participate in activities that will enrich their lives in the areas of the arts, education, physical and mental health, and social and political awareness. The girls are provided with opportunities that will develop their self-esteem, leadership skills, socialization skills and academic excellence.

In 2006, Ms. Oatis founded The SITAO Corporation. The SITAO Corporation is an independent, non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation funded solely by donations and federal and state grants, providing services to underserved youth groups and other charitable or religious groups. The SITAO Corporation focuses primarily on music based activities, after school programs and community programs that encourage academic excellence, team building, self discipline, oral communication, loyalty and responsibility. Ms. Oatis was raised in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. She holds a Bachelor of Music Education Degree from Jackson State University and completed graduate studies in Music Education at Morgan State University. She also holds an Advanced Professional Certification in the State of Maryland.

She is a member of the Baltimore Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. KRYSTAL PHAULS

Krystal Phauls began her career in education as an elementary school Literacy Teacher in 2007 in Capitol Heights, MD. She has taught literacy in grades 4, 5, & 6. During her tenure as a classroom teacher, she has taught general education, special education, and talented and gifted students. She has also worked as a Reading Specialist. Currently, she is an Instructional Lead Teacher and Testing Coordinator, providing professional development, coaching, and data analysis for an elementary school in Clinton, Maryland. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Morgan State University in Baltimore, MD. She completed her Master of Science in Educational Administration from Trinity College in Washington, DC in 2011. She also earned a Master of Science in Reading Education from Bowie State University in Bowie, MD in 2014. She has worked as a Literacy Content reviewer for EdReports and a Micro-Credential Writer and Assessor for the National Educator’s Association (NEA). DR. KANDIS BOYD-WYATT

Dr. Kandis Boyd Wyatt, PMP is a full time online professor at American Public University. She specializes in Project Management and Adult Learning. She earned a PhD in Public Administration from Nova Southeastern University, a Master of Science Degree in Meteorology and Water Resources from Iowa University, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Meteorology from Iowa State University. Dr. Kandis Wyatt is a Meteorologist and has served as a Federal Government manager for over 20 years. She is currently the Deputy Director of the NOAA office of Atmospheric Research Office of Weather and Air Quality (NOAA-OAR-OWAQ). As one who leads by serving, Dr. Kandis Wyatt has developed scholarly initiatives and explored innovative methods to shape the senior-level curriculum as it relates to leader development and organizational effectiveness. Dr. Kandis Wyatt has delivered lectures in a variety of settings: community organizations, scholarly conferences, and virtual classrooms. As well, Dr. Kandis Wyatt has led collaborative research projects, mentored faculty and students, and counseled senior executives on administrative, managerial, and technical issues. Dr. Kandis Wyatt has also used independent judgment to coach and mentor federal employees through the Young Government Leaders (YGL) Program and the Administrative Leadership Development Program (ADLP). Dr. Kandis Wyatt has been a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. for over 20 years where she has served at the local, regional, and national levels. She has served in a multitude of volunteer capacities both externally and she has also served as a trainer for over 16 years. In addition, she serves as a volunteer for DREF. T.A.G. SUPPORTERS Latosha Guy Tamira Howard Carla Jones Dr. Debra Ramos

Dr. Renata A. Hedrington-Jones Dr. Teresea Myers Daria Neal T.A.G. PARTNERS T.A.G. EXTERNAL EVALUATOR

Dr. Constance A. Lindsay T.A.G. PROGRAM STAFF

Dr. Johni Cruse Craig Taylor Dent DTEC-TAG Project Director, DTEC-TAG Program Assistant, Delta Research and Educational Foundation Delta Research and Educational Foundation