Leading Through Crisis

CU Denver School of Education & Human Development

LEADING THROUGH CRISIS

FALL 2020

THIS ISSUE

1 A Letter from the Dean 6 Leadership for Educational 15 Leading in Higher Edu- Dean Kantor highlights Organizations cation with a Passion for SEHD’s leadership during Lora de la Cruz, Shane Diversity and Inclusion the pandemic. Saaed, and DeAndre Taylor Gabriel Castaño, EdD chronicle leadership chal- student, hopes to alleviate Paw Ki Htoo, teacher education lenges and opportunities barriers for first-generation student in Elementary Education during the pandemic. students and families. A LETTER FROM THE DEAN 10 Could This Pandemic 16 Grants Transform the Way We Catch up on select Nurture and Invest in funded projects, including Safety and Learning Education Services for Our a $1.6 million National Youngest Generation? Science Foundation grant. Kristie Kauerz and Diana Higher education has never faced a bigger challenge than Schaack describe the state 18 SEHD Year in Review we are currently facing during the COVID-19 pandemic— of ECE during COVID-19 Review some of our key this is, of course, true of so many industries in the U.S. and SEHD’s groundbreak- accomplishments. right now. At CU Denver, we spent the entire summer ing PhD concentration in planning for our “safe return to campus.” We developed meticulous plans for how many people can be in each early childhood policy. 19 Faculty classroom at any one time for the 25 percent of fall Meet three new faculty courses that are meeting on campus. We have a testing 2 members. 12 Alum Says This Is a Time to program for the dorms, which have single-room occupancy WHAT MAKES AN “Lead Courageously” only, and a campus-based contact tracing team. We have EXCELLENT ONLINE Barbara Cooper, Secretary 20 Love and Literacy Go Hand check-in stations that log attendance for every individual This fall, we have also been getting to know our new EDUCATOR? of Early Childhood Educa- in Hand on campus each day so that should an outbreak occur, we Chancellor, Dr. Michelle Marks. Dr. Marks comes to us Sean Michael Morris and Laura tion in Alabama, says dedi- Amelia Parks, graduate can contact every individual who may have interacted with from George Mason University where she served on the Summers provide recommendations cated leadership is required student in Literacy Edu- the virus. These are just some of the measures we’ve put Business School faculty and led the campus in strategic in place. As I write this message, we are six weeks into for teaching online and recap key when “reality can change cation, motivates diverse innovation as a vice president. Dr. Marks has engaged in our fall semester, and I can report that we have had only an incredible 100-day listening tour of our campus and takeaways from this year’s Digital in a day” for teachers and youth to deeply enjoy Pedagogy Lab. three cases, and they were quickly contained. I want to Front Range community to get to know us and is formulat- families. reading and writing. acknowledge our wonderful students and staff who have ing strategic direction for our campus. Top of mind for her willingly complied with our rule to wear masks while is how CU Denver can serve as an asset to the region and on campus. 4 NxtGEN Teacher Residency 14 A Champion for Higher an anchor institution for Denver, our vibrant home. Education and Latinx SEHD students receive Safety is a top priority, but so is the quality of the learning Communities I am currently on campus a few days a week and available forward-thinking mentor- experience. In the SEHD, we worked all summer on our by Zoom on all other days. Feel free to schedule a visit to Maria Castro Barajas, EdD ship from Tania Hogan. online and hybrid courses. We also led the campus share your ideas as an alum or a valued community student, strives to make an faculty in a Hybrid Teaching Academy because we have member on how the campus and the SEHD can meet our educational impact in Latinx Amelia Parks, MA student in so much expertise in digital pedagogy. We were fully ready collective goals. And, in the meantime, stay safe and be communities. Literacy Education for the fall term and had robust enrollment in our classes. well during this very unusual time for us all. I hope you The feedback we are receiving from our students is very enjoy this e-version of Edge, an experiment for these positive—I am very proud of our faculty. We are resilient, pandemic times! DEAN EDITORIAL REVIEW PHOTOGRAPHY creative, and committed, and we have stepped up to the Rebecca Kantor Pamela Wineman Serwaa Adu-Tutu, David Campbell, Scott Dressel-Martin, COVID challenge, though we dearly miss the community Best, Kimberly Greenwell, Trevr Merchant EDITORIAL MANAGEMENT DESIGN AND PRODUCTION our “in-person” campus affords us, and we look forward Julia Cummings Rachel Olson ABOUT Edge is published annually by the University of Colorado Denver to a full return as soon as possible. WRITING FRONT COVER School of Education & Human Development for college alumni Serwaa Adu-Tutu, Meghan Shane Saeed, MA student in Leadership for Rebecca Kantor and friends. Send correspondence to Julia Cummings, Azralon, Julia Cummings, Educational Organizations, approaches her Dean CU Denver School of Education & Human Development, Pamela Wineman school during the COVID-19 pandemic. Campus Box 106, P.O. Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364.

CENTER TEACHING IN ADVOCATE AT ALL GET CREATIVE WITH TEACH WITH A ONLINE ANTIRACISM, ACCES- LEVELS FOR YOUR YOUR NEW DIGITAL FLEXIBLE AND NIMBLE SIBILITY, AND EQUITY. STUDENTS’ NEEDS. CLASSROOM SPACE. MINDSET. Digital pedagogy should Digital pedagogy has Student motivation and “The most important digital EDUCATOR? acknowledge the very real become more urgent, efficacy builds when their literacy is imagination and circumstances of students’ especially as learning online voices are affirmed and they creativity,” said Morris. lives—from the work and (re)surfaces inequities that feel included in establishing Teachers can and should parenting they’re doing at we have barely scratched at how the learning community feel empowered to be more home to societal issues they in our classrooms and can operates. “Teachers can agile. Rather than profes- face. Addressing racism, profoundly change access to make deliberate decisions sional development and establishing accessibility, education. As Morris noted, about how students engage training focused on specific and understanding equity “Too often, I think, online and feel a sense of belong- practices, teachers need challenges in students’ lives teaching (and instructional ing in a virtual classroom support for becoming online and on-the-ground design) employs methods community,” said Laura literate with a variety of are necessary no matter the to remove the student Summers, a faculty member technologies and pedago- subject matter or content. from where they are and in Learning Design & gies so that, in the case of The pandemic brings this place them where we want Technology. “It’s important another sudden move to into greater focus, but the them.” Excellent teaching is that students are able to online education, flexibility work of teaching is never rooted in understanding and see themselves reflected in and invention will preserve just teaching. We must find valuing students and their the virtual space and that the continuity of the learn- ways to reduce oppression experiences. Good digital they’re given permission to ing experience. and question privilege. The pedagogy can develop from be creative.” As learning online proliferates amid the digital learning. Learning Design & Tech- INVEST CRITICALLY hope is to build bridges be- something as simple as disruptive force of the COVID-19 pandemic, nology faculty provide influential courses, AND CAREFULLY IN tween our own humanity and talking to students, asking There are several free economic precarity, and school reopenings, certificates, degree programs, faculty NEW TECHNOLOGIES. the humanity of students. them to reflect on what applications that can be forward-thinking educators across the globe development workshops, and experiences Educators are encouraged they need as a learners, embedded in virtual courses Left page: Paw Ki Htoo, and allowing them to make for students to co-create are actively building welcoming virtual class- like the Digital Pedagogy Lab so that to be better users of tech- Elementary Education student. Below: Sean Michael Morris, choices that align with their on a shared document (e.g., room “sanctuaries” and “refuges” for their education professionals and librarians can nology by asking critical faculty member, Learning Design students. feel more confident, tech-savvy, and questions of edtech: How & Technology program interests. Padlet, Jamboard) and hold student-centered. For the fall 2020 semester, accessible is the tool for small-group collaborations “A pandemic forced us all to discover what CU Denver created a holistic campus effort students who are sight or on authentic problems of happens when learning is pushed online,” to provide national leadership around online hearing impaired? How “A pandemic forced us all to practice that build upon said Sean Michael Morris, faculty member course experiences in higher education. For do these tools invade a student agency. Students in the SEHD Learning Design & Technology example, 150 course sections are employing student’s privacy? How discover what happens when can also “make” away from program. “Educators are gearing up for assistants to help faculty use digital tools do we confront problems learning is pushed online.” the computer and return teaching and learning through the screen, more effectively and think very deliberately long identified with edtech, together or through record- ings to share their creative across time and time zones, while giving about fostering community-building and such as privacy violations, Laura Summers, faculty member, students an experience of curiosity and thoughtful feedback in their virtual class- security concerns, racist solutions. Learning Design & Technology program wonder. It’s an awesome responsibility.” rooms. “Digital learning and teaching should algorithms, accessibility, not focus on tools and technology but on all-male leadership teams, The important thing is to Morris recently co-led an international, human beings,” said Morris. “And this is and outsourcing? The engineer a flexible system asynchronous, online Digital Pedagogy Lab what CU Denver is doing. We engage conference featured a “tool that allows students to in collaboration with the SEHD. The event students through practices that center them— parade,” an opportunity explore and find personal was 500+ participants strong across 15 their lives, their careers, their concerns.” for online educators to get connection to their lives, countries and 20 time zones. their feet wet and consider while simultaneously direct- The following key takeaways from the Digital what’s possible and what ing their actions and focus CU Denver is uniquely prepared and Pedagogy Lab explore humanizing practices they might want to explore toward a specific obtainable mobilized to provide thought leadership for teaching online and offer examples of more deeply. goal. and direction in the area of human-centered how educational institutions are adapting: 4 EDGE MAGAZINE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 5

NxtGEN is an innovative Students in NxtGEN say Hogan teacher preparation path- cares deeply about social justice. way with a strong focus on She grounds them in their academics NXTGEN TEACHER through helpful seminars and one- diversifying the teacher on-one appointments. She guides workforce. It develops under- students through the process of RESIDENCY: graduates into highly competent gaining financial aid, scholarships, “THEY’RE ALWAYS teachers who possess the interviews, and paid internships that THERE FOR YOU” knowledge and skills needed they love. She listens attentively to serve students of diverse and generously, day and night. She languages, cultures, and abilities speaks thoughtfully to them about in urban and rural classrooms. their coursework and internships, The program hits a sweet spot, always helping them see the bigger often attracting individuals picture or the extra article they Nathalie Gomez, student in Teacher Education who are interested in returning could read. In short, she is the living to their home communities to example of the kind, compassionate, and exemplary teacher they wish to The people in NxtGEN listen to us. behind the scenes. They’re working in teach. Graduates earn a BA and become themselves. They are our personal psychologists. the schools five days a week, 8 a.m. a Colorado teacher’s license, They take a big load off our backs. to noon. So, the reality of teaching is and elementary teacher candi- Nathalie Gomez, a senior in the They are our friends. They are our visible for them. Our graduates know dates also earn a Culturally and program, describes NxtGEN as highly teachers. They are a very big part of they want to be teachers, and they Linguistically Diverse Education relational, supportive, a true com- education, for me. I always recom- just have so much more instructional endorsement. To date, the pro- munity, and the reason she chose CU mend NxtGen. I think it’s a great experience. They know the system. gram has prepared 124 teachers Denver. “Since I joined NxtGEN, I’ve program. They’re always there for you.” They know all the curriculum ahead for high-needs Colorado schools. been inspired by Tania. I want to be of time. They learn how to interact The pathway is designed in close as supportive to the students in my “Early on, our students are getting professionally with teachers and partnership with Aurora Public classroom as she’s been to me. I just the experience of what it’s like to be families. We’re creating and empow- Schools, Denver Public Schools, want to go above and beyond,” said a teacher,” said Hogan. “They see ering strong groups of new teachers.” Jefferson County School District, Gomez. “There’ve been personal and St. Vrain School District. issues that she’s helped me figure For more information, email out and incidents in classrooms NXTGEN WRAPAROUND SUPPORTS that we’re still figuring out together. [email protected]. Students take advantage of the many individualized wraparound Tania helped me find an internship supports that NxtGEN offers through the SEHD Success Center. site where I could speak Spanish The NxtGEN Teacher Residency They are designed to develop deep relationships within the NxtGEN consistently and where I eventually program is much more than three student body and enhance each student’s approach to navigating obtained a full-time job as a third years of paid teaching experience a successful university journey. Students know they can come to grade ELA-S teacher. I’m also plan- and teacher education courses the Success Center and talk to Dr. Tania Hogan and the Success ning to continue my schooling at CU followed by a final yearlong residency Coaches about anything and be supported in a variety of ways. Denver to get an MA. So that’s really in a school. It’s an opportunity for exciting.” aAcademic support students of color, multilingual speakers, aIndividualized tutoring first-generation college students, David Montes, a second-year student aPaid early field experiences in teaching as a paraeducator intern and those who wish to be role in NxtGEN, loves the paid parapro- aEmpowering cohort meetings models for children in highly diverse fessional work in schools, as well as aFinancial aid/scholarships schools to receive forward-thinking the academic and personal supports. aInterview support for getting a permanent job in a school district mentorship from Dr. Tania Hogan, “I enjoy it a lot. It’s hard work, but I aPeer mentoring director of NxtGEN, together with have been doing hard work all my life. aOne-on-one support meetings a cadre of award-winning teacher “I love the feeling of belonging to this It’s just different,” said Montes. “I aPaid yearlong residency internships in some districts education faculty, school site teams, love the feeling of belonging to this aSocioemotional support and mentor teachers. community, this body of educators.” community, this body of educators. aTime management It’s just really good. Tania is my hero. David Montes, student in Teacher Education with Tania Hogan, director of NxtGEN 6 EDGE MAGAZINE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 7

citizenship more than 40 years ago, was a single mom of LEO five children after her husband died in the Vietnam War. “We watched her go after her greatest dream, which was to LEADERSHIP engage in higher education to become an educator. What it EXECUTIVE modeled for us is that education has the power to change FOR EDUCATIONAL your life. It changed our life trajectory,” said de la Cruz. LEADERSHIP Determined to become an educator herself, de la Cruz’s (LEO) career path took her from elementary teacher to assistant ORGANIZATIONS DR. LORA DE principal to principal to area superintendent, and finally to EQUITY-FOCUSED EDUCATION LA CRUZ superintendent. “I never forget that experience of being in LEADERSHIP IN UNPRECEDENTED TIMES (Administrator License the classroom, as well as having the incredible responsibility ’15, EdD ’16), superin- of making decisions for thousands of people across the tendent in Lake system,” she said. Alumni and students from CU Denver’s Leadership for Oswego School Educational Organizations (LEO) program became every- District just outside She uses a distributed leadership model taking intentional day heroes to many of us in 2020. Education leaders— of Portland, Oregon, steps to build connection, trust, and opportunities for through constant cooperation with their staff, boards, was the first superin- collaborative decision making, implementation, and action. and state government agencies—provided thoughtful, tendent in the United “My board, students, parents, community members, and States to close her actionable plans that strived to balance health and safety, Lora de la Cruz, superintendent, I are passionate about racial justice, climate justice, and Lake Oswego School District school buildings and equity, and support for learners, educators, and families. educational equity. We have worked together to create an shift to online learning antiracism resolution, which I know many school districts What commitments and values guide them? What after a case of COVID-19 was confirmed in her district. She challenges and opportunities excite them the most? have done. And while words matter, they don’t matter as and her team were front-runners in creating responses much as actions. I’m proud that our resolution codifies We interviewed three LEO affiliates to explore how their and messaging as the graveness of the pandemic was just actions that we are committing to as a district. We support CU Denver studies helped shape how they lead today. beginning to become a reality. changing the lens through which our district delivers educational programs that are more infused with very On Feb. 28, at 5:30 p.m., she received a phone call from contemporary but long-lasting issues.” public health authorities notifying her of the emergency. Her cabinet and board were updated immediately. She Her LEO experiences continue to resonate, particularly worked until midnight with her communications director noting LEO’s dynamic and diverse cohorts that remain in to put out the first of many notifications. They extended close contact after graduation, faculty who are cognizant spring break out of an abundance of caution, then about the needs of working adults and parents, opportunities transitioned to full-time distance learning. “We needed to develop the fine art of giving professional presentations, to learn how to connect with our students while educating and strong curriculum built around collaborating with remotely during really challenging circumstances,” said school boards, policymakers, and lawyers. de la Cruz. The first individual who tested positive was hospitalized and on a respirator for three months. It was Dr. Rodney Blunck, her doctoral faculty mentor, said that an extremely worrisome time. de la Cruz is “an outstanding member of the LEO Executive Leadership alumni. She exemplifies the professional and De la Cruz is a leader who values human connection, personal virtues of compassion, scholarship, dignity, and service to others, integrity, and diversity. “Every human grace. Lora has and will continue to positively impact being has a need to feel that they are heard and valued and students, faculty, and communities for many years to come.” that they matter. So, I always begin from that place in any leadership position and any decision making,” she said. “It’s critical for educators to not only enter the field but to keep pursuing our passions,” said de la Cruz. “Each of us has Her path to being a superintendent started at an early age. something unique and important that needs to be contributed De la Cruz’s mother was enrolled in teacher education to the field of education. Whether it’s a certification or a classes during evenings and summers, and she brought her license or the next degree, go for it! We can never go wrong daughter along because childcare was not in her budget. when we are pursuing the next level of educating ourselves. Her mother, a Mexican immigrant who received her U.S. That contributes to building a stronger community.” 8 EDGE MAGAZINE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 9

LEO along with his compassion for others to increase student agency and organizational flexibility needed to drive students’ success.”

HIGHER Taylor highly recommends his doctoral program to others because all courses have equity as a focus. “The professors EDUCATION and my cohort peers, we push each other to think about education from that equity lens. When people ask me DEANDRE TAYLOR, a third-year student in CU Denver’s whether they should pursue a doctorate, I say, ‘Absolutely. EdD program with a concentration in the Leadership for Believe in yourself. The hardest part is applying.’ The Education Organizations in higher education, works as things that I develop and learn in this program will follow interim associate director of educational initiatives within me no matter where I go as a leader, no matter what. LEO Residence Life CU Boulder. He embraces diversity as a core And other folks are rooting and cheering me on.” strength in university settings. With approaches of care, patience, fortitude, listening ears, and the ability to lean Doctoral studies keep Taylor grounded and focused on PRINCIPAL into uncomfortable conversations, higher education leaders an end goal. It’s an exciting time to be in higher education can and will improve services and opportunities for diverse right now. “We are changing and shifting in many different university students and employees. areas as a result of COVID. I’m excited to lead through the LICENSURE change and see what it’s going to look like in the years Taylor’s undergraduate experiences in Wisconsin influenced to come.” Shane Saeed, student in Leadership for his career path: from the bias-motivated incidents he Educational Organizations experienced in residence halls to much more positive interactions that influenced his decision to stay at college. SHANE SAEED, an MA student in said. “It’s much more than reading LEO also helped participants consider “I’m always thinking about how I can pay it forward to those LEO, is a fourth-grade teacher at Red theory and writing papers. University meaningful ways to integrate tech- individuals who helped me have a more welcoming Hawk Elementary in St. Vrain Valley assignments involve action, big lead- nology to augment student learning. experience, despite the challenges that I had,” said Taylor. School District who completed her ership project roles in schools, having For example, students in the cohort “How did they do that? Really, the tenets of diversity, principal licensure in 2020. From the hard conversations, planting seeds learned to use the 4 Shifts Protocol to equity, and inclusion uphold that vision for student beginning of her teacher education of change, and watching those seeds redesign lessons and units for deeper success. Everyone should have access to quality education. days, she dreamed of becoming grow. That was just so powerful.” learning, greater student agency, and Education is what is going to drive a person’s life.” a school leader. more authentic real-world work. This Saeed loved the community of the redesign connected deeply with the This moment in history provides a heightened opportunity When her current “life-changing” leadership program, fostered by the 16 principal licensure program’s emphasis for higher education faculty and professionals to get school principal encouraged her to friendly individuals in her cohort and on robust instructional leadership and involved in diversity and equity conversations and take apply to CU Denver’s principal her faculty mentor, Dr. Scott McLeod. coaching. McLeod said, “Shane takes antiracist stances. Universities have opportunities to thread licensure program, she jumped at “They are the people, down the road, to this work like a duck to water. She inclusionary initiatives and dialogue throughout their the chance. “Seeing his impact on our that I will call to bounce around ideas,” has a real passion for using technolo- student touchpoints. This includes university housing. For school’s culture really resonated with she said. Members of the cohort gy, for family-community engagement, his EdD dissertation-in-practice, Taylor plans to explore and me,” said Saeed. “This is what I want looked critically at equity, diversity, and student-centered instruction.” discover barriers to upper mobility and career advancement to do with a school as well.” and inclusion in their schools. “I teach opportunities for Black housing professionals at universities in a rather affluent, white community, “I can’t recommend this program using data from the Association of College and University According to Saeed, the experience but I think it is really important to enough,” said Saeed. “I’m hoping to Housing Officers-International (ACUHO-I). What would was amazing. It strengthened her make sure that we are supplementing pursue my EdD with CU Denver as improve employee retention and career success of diverse belief that positive school leadership our curriculum so that students are well. If this is anything like what the individuals in the field? How do we help to change systems creates excellent school systems and seeing not just mirrors but windows principal licensure was, I just cannot that are confusing or oppressive? “We have to break down influences how she confronts new into different and other cultures. I wait.” silos in our society,” he said. challenges and opportunities with want my students to be able to talk reflection, partnership, and about those cultures and how they Follow Saeed and her large global following of educators on Instagram Dr. Rodney Blunck, Taylor’s faculty mentor, had glowing consensus-building. interact. We learned to build empathy remarks about his professionalism and abilities: “DeAndre in schools, so students really try to at @fantasticallyfourth. is an excellent doctoral student and an equally exceptional “I absolutely have to applaud CU understand different cultures and DeAndre Taylor, role model for others. He leverages his passion for equity EdD student Denver’s leadership program,” she races and ethnicities.” 10 EDGE MAGAZINE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 11

system. Nowhere was this more visible than in terms of pay for early childhood teachers, which is abominably low,” said Dr. Diana Schaack, assistant professor in SEHD. “Because ECE that serves children birth to five is largely family tuition driven and a fee-for-service industry, in Colorado alone, almost a quarter of ECE teachers who were making low wages to begin with have been furloughed or laid off due to temporary closures, reduced class sizes, and families disenrolling children. A recent national study showed that about 60 percent of ECE programs were on the brink of permanent closure due to the pandemic. The programs that are durable and have been able to survive are the New Early Childhood ones that are publicly funded. Families have always seen the value of Policy PhD Concentration ECE. Businesses are now really starting to understand the value of ECE with the pandemic making it crystal clear that employees require ECE CU Denver has launched one of only a services to fully be available. Maybe, just maybe, out of this crisis, a much handful of PhD concentrations in early deeper appreciation will evolve that then translates into greater public childhood policy in the country, recognizing investment for ECE that also allows ECE teachers to make a fair wage.” that Colorado and the nation need more policy leaders who can address large COLORADO GOVERNOR’S ECE PRIORITIES systemic issues in ECE, now more than ever.

Jared Polis, the governor of Colorado, has gone to great lengths to The goal of this cutting-edge program is to Gov. Jared Polis reads to schoolchildren contain and mitigate the pandemic and to support young children and develop leaders and academics who can during the pandemic. Faculty members Kristie Kauerz and Diana Schaack their teachers. Increasing statewide early childhood capacity and work- move early childhood policy agendas and force development are priority projects on the governor’s “Bold Four” scholarship forward, thereby improving initiatives. He and his administration are setting out to increase pre- funding mechanisms and workforce agendas school capacity in the state by funding an additional 20,000 half-day to support the care and learning needs of COULD THIS PANDEMIC TRANSFORM THE WAY WE preschool slots by June 30, 2023. Steps in the plan include increasing racially, linguistically, culturally, and ability- INVEST IN CARE AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR OUR the number of qualified ECE teachers; improving ECE access, especially diverse children. Early childhood policy is in ECE deserts; and opening more public preschool programs. quite different from K–12 policy and needs experts with PhDs who understand the unique “Given the enormity of the state’s budgetary priorities—including challenges and opportunities in this field. YOUNGEST GENERATION? transportation, corrections, Medicaid, and wildfires—we are so proud THE STATE OF EARLY CARE AND EDUCATION DURING COVID to have a governor who lays a stake in the ground that early childhood “We need people who deeply understand the and the ECE workforce are central to his administration’s success. It different funding streams and the different In a field already characterized by And the pandemic has reinforced how to be determined is how this all plays speaks volumes about his commitment and his values in this work,” policy initiatives that have shaped the field to significant inequities, the COVID-19 ECE provides an invaluable child care out in terms of how we leverage this said Kauerz. be what it is today and to also be trained in pandemic is a long-lasting disruptive service for working families. ECE is new public attention to change policy policy skills in order to reform the field,” said event that is exacerbating crises in both care and education and helps strategies. And I don’t know what “He’s been a historic champion of ECE,” said Schaack. “Within his first Dr. Kristie Kauerz. “This program has all of early childhood care and education children and their families thrive. that’s going to look like yet.” several months in office, he had full-day K passed in Colorado, which the right ingredients: a really interesting mix (ECE). As some community-based, COVID-19 has shined a light on the we hadn’t been able to do until he got into office. That has just been of faculty with different areas of expertise private, and public ECE programs go economic implications of the ECE Young children are feeling the amazing. It is my hope that he can keep moving the ECE policy agenda who will be dedicated to your success; an remote, as others open their doors, system in the United States. pandemic the hardest. While school forward in the midst of a really difficult time in our state and in our incredible set of core courses that include and as still others furlough teachers or districts have offered distance learn- state’s budget.” crowdsourcing from the best brains in the close doors due to reliance on family “Public perception and awareness of ing options for K–12 students, it is discipline, and an ECE community with true tuition, experts are seeing greater the problems in ECE are changing due especially difficult to provide online Dr. Rebecca Kantor, Dean of SEHD, is contributing to the state’s ECE collaborative spirit. This program is going to solidarity among working parents to the pandemic,” said Dr. Kristie platforms for preschoolers (ages 3–5), goals. The governor recently named her as a commissioner on his Early gain a national reputation quickly.” and guardians, businesses, and U.S. Kauerz, associate clinical professor children with special needs, and those Childhood Leadership Commission, a federally authorized state advisory policymakers who are giving ECE pro- and director of the National P-3 who live in poverty. “Everyone’s just council for early childhood. Kantor provides statewide leadership, The PhD concentration in early childhood grams and services elevated attention. Center at CU Denver. “Families really struggling with the best way to subject matter expertise, and champions best and promising ECE policy augments current CU Denver ECE suddenly are saying ‘Wait a minute, I provide education services to young practices throughout the state. programs that build scholars in early child- Researchers have shown that high- can’t go to work if I don’t have these children right now,” said Kauerz. hood pedagogy and leadership capacity in quality ECE programs can improve supports,’ or ‘Oh my gosh, I’m trying “Online learning is really hard with the field, including a PhD concentration in children’s learning and social- to work and be my child’s teacher. preschoolers and kindergarteners.” inclusive early childhood education, an EdD emotional development trajectories, And these preschool teachers need to Applications for the next cohort are due on Dec. 1, 2020. concentration in educational leadership for engaging them during the most make more money because it’s hard to “Prior to COVID-19, ECE existed on For more information and to apply: equity with an early childhood concentration, and the Buell Early Childhood Leadership sensitive window of brain development. instruct these little kids.’ What’s yet the margins and was a very fragile education.ucdenver.edu/PhD Certificate program. 12 EDGE MAGAZINE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 13

ALUM SAYS THIS IS A TIME TO “If we can get it right from birth to five when the brain is being built, “LEAD COURAGEOUSLY” we impact a child, and we impact our nation for eternity.” mother bought her a new book at the Cooper said there are “countless grocery store every weekend. At age examples” of how she was inspired by four, she was enrolled in Head Start at teachers during her life, all the way to the Altgeld Murray Center, where she CU Denver and her doctorate advisor, Dr. Barbara Cooper strongly remembers Miss Ball and Miss Pugh Dr. Dorothy Garrison-Wade. “She believes that being an instilling what became a lifelong joy whipped us into shape and demanded educator is a calling, not for learning. “I was always excited to excellence. I’ll never forget the support just a job. The dramatic go to school, every day,” she said. that Dorothy provided.” events of 2020 have only Her worldview began to develop when Garrison-Wade, associate professor confirmed her conviction. she attended a high school quite a emerita in the SEHD, has remained a distance from her home. “I saw first- valuable mentor and traveled to “You have to be called to do this work hand some of the issues that were Alabama to consult with Cooper on well because you really are impacting plaguing our city in Chicago, and how the mandatory desegregation plan children who come from all walks of so many children were not experiencing for the Huntsville schools. “Barbara life,” said Cooper. “And unless you education in the same way I was. is truly a phenomenal woman,” she “One of my favorite quotes comes have a passion and a servant attitude Those are my earliest memories of said. “As Barbara’s doctorate advisor, from Witcraft, ‘A hundred years from and a servant leadership style, it’s wanting to impact communities.” I learned just as much or more from now it will not matter what my bank going to be challenging to do this her. She has a strong, nationwide account was, the sort of house I lived work, now more so than ever.” She received her bachelor’s degree reputation for promoting quality in, or the kind of car I drove, but the from Western Illinois University education and equity. I remain in awe world may be different because I was Cooper was appointed Secretary of before her husband’s military career of all of her accomplishments.” important in the life of a child.’ This is Early Childhood Education by brought them to metro Denver. She why this work is so critical,” said Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey in July 2020. pursued her graduate degrees while Cooper’s children are grown, and she Cooper. “If we can get it right from She earned both her PhD in education working first as a teacher and then as and her husband, Walter Cooper Sr., birth to five when the brain is being leadership and innovation and a master’s a principal, with two young children at coordinator of the LET US Academy at built, we impact a child, and we degree in administration, supervision, home. After some time in the Aurora Tuskegee University, have inspired the impact our nation for eternity.” and curriculum development (magna Public Schools as chief equity and next generation: their daughter is an cum laude) at CU Denver. engagement officer, as well as director early childhood teacher. of family engagement and commu- In addition to leading an executive nity outreach, Cooper was recruited state education agency that is part to become deputy superintendent of of the Governor’s cabinet, Cooper the Huntsville Public Schools in 2011, is responsible for 1,204 First Class overseeing an administrative overhaul pre-K classrooms in all 67 Alabama Barbara Cooper, PhD alum. Right: Barbara and the development of a roadmap counties. Her team addresses the with her husband Walter P. Cooper Sr. to address more than 50 years of myriad needs of teachers, children, segregation in one of Alabama’s and families during a time when (COVID-19) pandemic, and they’re simultaneously. A personalized men- largest school systems. “reality can change in a day” and experiencing the pandemic of racism. toring system is supporting teachers traditional methods are quickly We can’t remain silent on these across the state and webinars are She went on to serve as deputy state falling to the wayside. issues. It’s an opportunity to lead offered to “keep everyone understand- superintendent of teaching and courageously.” ing that although these are times we’ve learning and chief academic officer “It’s messy work, and there are no not lived in before, we are committed for the Alabama State Department of perfect answers,” said Cooper. “As In just a few short months, Cooper’s to thriving as we determine new ways Education and at the Alabama Depart- educators, we have to look at this as team has ensured virtual resources to support children and families.” ment of Early Childhood Education as an opportunity to mold children and are reaching hundreds of early child- the director of the Office of School not try to run away from the conversa- hood students and that teachers are A South Side Chicago native, Cooper Readiness, which administers the tions because even children as young prepared to teach in restricted class- grew up in a home with a passion nation’s highest quality ranked as four years old are experiencing this room settings, remotely, or both for learning, fondly noting that her pre-K program. 14 EDGE MAGAZINE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 15

“The EdD Higher Education A CHAMPION concentration enables FOR HIGHER EDUCATION current education leaders to become effective and AND LATINX SCHOOL passionate about COMMUNITIES educational access, equity, and social justice.” Like many students attending CU Denver, Maria Castro Barajas, who is pursuing an EdD in Leadership for Education Equity with a concentration in Latinx School on the lives of students and parents. Communities, is faced with balancing a full-time degree In his current role, Castaño works to and supporting her family. Her drive to support students implement strategic enrollment of color sets her apart. Castro Barajas works as the management for CU Denver, aiming assistant director of the Pre-Collegiate Development to increase student success and Programs (PCDP) Bridge Program at CU Boulder and serves retention rates. He hopes to make as president of the SEHD Doctoral Students of Color group. education accessible in a climate that supports diversity and inclusion. As an advocate and leader in the Latinx community, Gabriel Castaño, EdD student Castro Barajas strives to keep first-generation students In his first year as a doctoral student, informed and motivated about pursuing higher education. Castaño is in his element. His graduate Through the PCDP Bridge Program, which is the final stage advisor, Dr. Diane Hegeman, said, of participation for high school seniors, she connects LEADING IN HIGHER EDUCATION “Gabe contributes his student en- with students and their families, passing along her own rollment management background, experiences and knowledge of the higher education WITH A PASSION FOR coupled with his knowledge and environment. “I’ve been through the PCDP program passion for serving under-represented myself, so I’ve walked a mile in these students’ shoes students, to help them achieve their and can truly say I love working with this population of goals and exceed their aspirations.” students. I am so happy I’ve come full circle,” she said. DIVERSITY AND The EdD Higher Education concentra- The PCDP Bridge Program also offers a three-week tion enables current education leaders intensive summer residential academic program Castro INCLUSION to become effective and passionate Barajas created to assist PCDP students with their accli- about educational access, equity, and mation and retention at CU Boulder. Through this program, Gabriel Castaño, who is pursuing an EdD Leadership for Educational Equity social justice. “I love that I am able she provides academic information and social and with a concentration in Higher Education, initially struggled to navigate the to take what I learn about leadership emotional support for first-generation students and their higher education process. The lack of proper guidance from his undergraduate for educational equity, access, and Maria Castro Barajas, institution forced this first-generation student and son of immigrant parents retention of first-generation and Latinx families as they transition to institutions of higher learning. EdD student to withdraw and enroll at a local community college. “K–12 made sense students and use it in my work right For Castro Barajas, the Latinx EdD program is an because they just tell you what classes to take and walk you through the away,” said Castaño. opportunity to further her own education and lead more process,” Castaño recalled. “But when it came to my undergraduate years, effectively. “The EdD program has allowed me to build diverse population. Individuals like Castro Barajas help shape my parents and I didn’t know anything about choosing the right classes Castaño enjoys learning alongside a great relationships with professors and colleagues in our a better atmosphere. She asserts that the “Latinx community or applying for financial aid. We didn’t know where to begin.” diverse group of peers who share his communities. Together, we make a difference in changing is a central part of the United States. As the community passion for achieving the mission and systems of institutional oppression,” she said. grows, it is imperative that Latinx students receive the Unfortunately, the Castaño family’s experience is not unique. According to goals of higher education institutions. necessary skills while in K–12 in order to reach college.” educationdata.org, the overall dropout rate for undergraduate students in the Thanks to advice from Dr. Hegeman, Dr. Jorge Chavez, associate professor of Human Development United States is 40 percent. Most give up before even entering their sopho- he views the experience as less of a and Family Relations, describes her as a wonderful student With the advent of COVID-19, approximately 24 percent more year. Much like Castaño’s experience, these students feel lost and over- destination and more of a journey. because she is “concerned with making a better world for of America’s Latino community have lost their jobs. This whelmed by the entire process. Once he received the proper guidance, Castaño “When I can see myself crossing that the next generation of college students. She is in a position is sure to have an impact on their children’s education was able to complete an associate’s degree and return to a four-year institution. finish line of earning the doctorate, to serve as an example for the many Latinx high school and and amplifies the lack of higher education access in the it doesn’t mean I’m done learning.” university students in Colorado. Maria is a leader.” community. Castro Barajas hopes that her experiences as From his start as an admissions counselor to his current role as CU Denver’s Castaño allows himself room to learn, a first-generation, Latina student and her activism for assistant vice chancellor of enrollment, Castaño has spent the last 16 years develop critical professional skills, As the university system grows more diverse, it becomes higher education advocacy will help improve futures in serving other first-generation and under-represented students. He realized evolve into a transformational CU Denver critical to understand and address the needs of a more Colorado’s Latinx community. early on that his passion, actions, and time could have an immediate impact leader, and impactfully serve others. 16 EDGE MAGAZINE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 17

GRANTS Select Funded Projects Select Funded Projects GRANTS

$1.6 MILLION NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION GRANT SEHD faculty members Dr. Heather Johnson (PI), associate professor of Mathematics Education, and Dr. Courtney Donovan (co-PI), clinical assistant professor in Research and Evaluation Methods, received a $1.6 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for Promoting Mathematical Reasoning and Transforming Instruction in College Algebra (ITsCRITiCAL). The project is a collaboration with Metropolitan State University of Denver, Santa Fe Community College, and Texas State University.

The project aims to transform education practices in college-level algebra “Math isn’t just for to promote students’ reasoning. As society sees an increase in the need for STEM professions, it’s important for students to be prepared for the everyone. Math new changes. “We want math classes to be places where students can belongs to everyone.” engage in reasoning, not just find answers,” said Johnson. “We collaborate with faculty across institutions to create spaces where that can happen.” With this grant, Dr. Heather Johnson and her team want to With this grant, Johnson and her colleagues have three research goals: create a lasting partnership that • Develop new and transformative approaches CATALYZING OPPORTUNITIES FOR transforms instructional practices ITsCRITiCAL will develop innovative digital tasks, known as in introductory college math courses. Techtivities, that will investigate mathematical reasoning rather EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION than answer-finding. Researchers also hope to embed developed tasks into existing courses that connect to high-leverage content. TEACHERS OF COLOR For instructors, ITsCRITiCAL will provide support and extend oppor- Early Childhood Education program This innovation was made possible tunities to promote student reasoning and ensure they can examine faculty members Dr. Rebecca Vlasin by $190,000 in funding through the which student voices are being heard. (PI) and Dr. Michael Barla (co-PI) are Transforming the Early Childhood Photos by Scott Dressel-Martin/ partnering with Clayton Early Learn- Workforce in Colorado Initiative. The Clayton Early Learning • Create Communities of Transformation ing, Mile High Early Learning, and initiative is funded by the Buell Founda- Innovative tasks are only one part of transformation. How instructors Sewall Child Development Center on tion and Gary Community Investments implement those tasks impacts students’ opportunities to learn. To the place-based Designing for a Di- and led by Early Milestones Colorado. promote lasting change, ITsCRITiCAL will create Communities of verse Workforce project. The partners Transformation to ensure that evidence-based practices continue have engaged a cohort of diverse early across its institution partners. These collaborative spaces foster childhood education teachers within faculty interaction to promote innovative practices. Instructors their unique community work settings. MEETING COLORADO’S WORKFORCE NEEDS IN across institutions can connect via video conference and social Together, they are codesigning and EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION media to network, support, and sustain innovations. implementing undergraduate course- CU Denver has been awarded a $110,000 grant from Constellation work (12 credits) through contextualized, Philanthropy for ASPIRE to Teach in Community-Based Early Childhood Care • Draw connections culturally sustaining, and job- and Education (ASPIRE ECE). Dean Rebecca Kantor and Dr. Suzanne Arnold will ITsCRITiCAL will draw connections between instructional practices, embedded experiences. The goal is serve as principal investigators. This innovative program leverages an existing instructor beliefs, and students’ covariational reasoning, math to improve access to professional alternative teacher licensure program, ASPIRE to Teach, originally designed as attitudes, and course success. Covariational reasoning involves form- learning opportunities that build a “quick-entry” pathway into P–12 teaching. ASPIRE ECE will supply high- ing and interpreting relationships between changing quantities, such toward a bachelor’s degree while pro- quality online preparation for Colorado’s newest early childhood educators, as distance and height. It is a competency important for students’ actively addressing inequities and enabling them to best provide care and education for young children and their success in key areas of college mathematics (e.g., functions, rates, barriers that many ECE educators of families. Each early childhood educator will receive instructor-led, yearlong and graphs) as well as for critical thinking as an educated citizen. color face as they pursue professional video coaching for increased effectiveness and retention as well as monthly preparation and higher education. online professional development learning opportunities with peers and instructors.

Top photo: Heather Johnson, Math Education faculty. Below: Courtney Donovan, Research and Evaluation Methods faculty 18 EDGE MAGAZINE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 19

YEAR IN REVIEW YEAR IN REVIEW

SUPPORTING FLEXIBILITY FOR ALL COLORADO SCHOOL DISTRICTS Dr. Julie Oxenford O’Brian—co- director of the Center for Practice Engaged Education Research (C-PEER)— helped school districts think through assessment, accountability, and data 1 2 2 80 2020 collection challenges during the NEW COUNSELING COUNSELING FACULTY MONTHS OF MOTHERHOOD LEADERSHIP CONVERSATIONS CHANCELLOR’S DISTINGUISHED pandemic. She helped to develop ACCREDITATION EXPLORE THE IMPACT OF RESEARCH DURING COVID-19 ABOUT PANDEMIC LEARNING FACULTY LECTURE recommendations to the Colorado SEHD has received specialty accreditation CHILDHOOD TRAUMA AND Dr. Lisa Forbes, assistant clinical Dr. Scott McLeod, associate professor In March, associate professor Department of Education for policy for the university’s MA in Couple and INFORMED CARE professor in Counseling, and Dr. Courtney in Leadership for Educational Organi- Dr. Manuel Espinoza, along with two flexibility during COVID-19. She Family Counseling/Therapy program Dr. Chaya Abrams and Dr. Lisa Forbes, Donovan, clinical assistant professor zations, launched two projects to aid members of his Right2Learn under- provided advice on suspending new from the Commission on Accreditation clinical professors in Counseling, in Research and Evaluation Methods, school district leaders as they shift to graduate research collective, Maria graduation requirements, administering for Marriage and Family Therapy Education developed and taught a new course researched the effects of COVID-19 on digital learning. For his “Coronavirus Karina Sanchez Velasco and Tania state assessments, administering and (COAMFTE). “COAMFTE accreditation on trauma and adverse childhood parenting attitudes, mental health, and Chronicles” interview series, McLeod Soto-Valenzuela, wove together using state required local assessments, is the gold standard for couples and substance abuse while providing mental experiences and the impact on children’s engaged in 10-minute check-ins with 43 captivating, unforgettable stories and evaluating educators, and accountability family counseling program,” said development and learning. The COVID-19 health support for mothers during the and improvement planning. Dr. Diane Estrada, associate professor schools around the globe to help school research findings about human dignity pandemic increased the number of pandemic. For more information and in Counseling. “It is an assurance that administrators improve their instruc- and civil rights from 1876. More than children and families experiencing to access the support, search for The we meet rigorous standards for quality tional leadership during the pandemic 200 people came to see the trio speak various kinds and degrees of trauma. Mothering Project on Facebook or of faculty, curriculum, and connections and use technology to enhance learning on “Masterpieces Made Visible: The course introduced early childhood @themotheringproject on Instagram. in the community.” and teaching. His second project, “Silver Educational Dignity, Social Dreaming, educators in culturally diverse settings to the concept and common behavioral Lining for Learning,” featured 27 live and the Colorado Constitution” during indicators of childhood trauma, and, conversations on Saturdays to discuss the second annual Distinguished importantly, to ways to increase a sense the future of innovative post-COVID Faculty Lecture. of safety in classrooms through trauma- education worldwide. informed care and interventions based in play therapy. NEW FACULTY

Chaya Abrams, Robin Julia Mahfouz, LPC, LAC, Brandehoff, assistant pro- 10 35 assistant assistant clinical fessor in the NEW UNDERGRADUATE TEACHER ST. VRAIN EDUCATORS clinical pro- professor in Leadership for EDUCATION PATHWAYS LEARN ABOUT EMERGING fessor in the the Culturally Educational Colorado needs culturally sustaining TECHNOLOGIES Counseling and Linguisti- Organizations teachers now more than ever. While the How do St. Vrain educators build and program, cally Diverse program, com- state faces teacher shortages in general, nurture classroom communities—even earned her PhD Education pleted most shortages of secondary and special 20 while teaching students from a distance? from Adams State University. Prior to program, hails from Hawai’i and East of her schooling in Lebanon prior to education teachers are extreme. SEHD’s TEACHER EDUCATION SEHD and the St. Vrain Valley School this position, she taught as an adjunct Los Angeles. She was a high school earning her PhD from The Pennsylvania award-winning educator preparation STUDENTS MATCHED WITH District partnered to develop a new MA faculty member at Johnson & Wales administrator and educator for more State University. Most recently, she residency programs have expanded FAMILIES IN NEED program for teacher leaders. This district- University, Colorado State University, than 12 years before getting her PhD worked as an assistant professor at to meet these needs. The SEHD rural customized Learning Design and and Regis University. Her scholarly at CU Denver, where she helped direct the University of Idaho. Her research The SEHD Student Success Center partnership with Otero Junior College has Technology program helps teachers interests include historical trauma and the nationally recognized Pathways- agenda focuses on deepening our added pathways in middle school math, developed the Learn and Grow Collab- create nimble, equity-focused, and historical trauma response, the impact 2Teaching program. Her research understanding of social-emotional secondary science, and special education. orative, matching talented education deeper-thinking digital learning opportu- of program modality on counselor examines the oppressions and traumas learning through lenses of intervention The BA in Education and Human Develop- students with families of children and nities during unprecedented times. implementation, school improvement ment on the Denver campus has additional young adults during the pandemic, when preparation, and the multicultural of marginalized communities of color secondary pathways in math, science, each can be of service to the other. aspects of clinical supervision. through mentorship, performance, and efforts, and preparation of school English, and social studies. And, NxtGEN counter-stories to support and educate leaders. has new pathways in the Jefferson County Latinx gang-affiliated youth and the School District, Aurora Public Schools, educational leaders and mentors who and St. Vrain Valley School District. work with them. 20 EDGE MAGAZINE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 21

Developing enthusiastic readers starts Becoming a teacher happened “organical- refugees—have enormously powerful with love and a desire to understand stu- ly” for Parks. Her mom is a college faculty stories and perspectives to convey, all dents’ individual differences and passions, member. Her dad teaches in K–8 schools. with unique cultural perspectives. LOVE & LITERACY said Parks. “I’m rooted in the belief that Excellent English professors in under- Energetic and upbeat, Amelia Parks works as an kids learn best from adults who listen to graduate school supplied the extra spark “It is a pleasure to work with Amelia Parks,” GO HAND IN HAND and care about them deeply. Loving your needed to light the fire. She earned her BA said Argys. “In classes at the university or English, literature, and composition teacher at students is key. It’s the only way you get in English literature and teacher licensure in Denver Writing Project seminars, her Colorado Early Colleges Aurora. Motivating to know their needs and make informed from Fresno State University. Then it passion, professionalism, and sincere diverse youth to deeply enjoy reading and writing, decisions in your classes.” was time for her to gain her “sea legs for concern for her students’ learning is particularly as they find their voices during this unprecedented time, is her passion and goal.

“Our kids are changing, and the world is changing. Our teaching jobs need to become more personalized, more lively, more current ...”

Inspiring students’ confidence to develop teaching” and “develop a teaching rhythm.” inspiring. Already an accomplished positive bonds with characters in books A move to Colorado for her husband’s job writer and critical thinker herself, Amelia inspires a gateway to lifelong learning. fueled a desire to further her education consistently views current research into Parks’s personal experience informs the by pursuing an MA in Literacy Education effective teaching practices through her way she empathizes with students and at CU Denver. Parks was drawn to the uni- lens as a classroom teacher. I appreciate recommends book selections. “As a child, versity because of its proximity to the city and admire her devotion to finding as reading for pleasure didn’t come naturally and because her work colleagues told her many methods, as many ways as possible, to me. When I received negative feed- that “CU Denver’s faculty is really great. to enhance student learning in her high back, I gave up easily. It wasn’t until some And the advisors’ really care.” school classes.” really wonderful teachers in my life, one of whom was my mom, introduced me to the Parks’s university classes have been ex- As a “newish” school leader on her books that were just my favorite books tremely relevant. An overwhelmingly pos- school’s campus, Parks is excited to be of all time, and still are—like The Hobbit itive experience was a summer institute a model for the ideas and activities she and Harry Potter—that I cried with the called the Denver Writing Project. Richard is learning in grad school. “Our kids are characters and empathized with them. Of Argys, senior instructor in the SEHD and changing, and the world is changing. Our all the ‘aha’ moments that I want kids to Parks’s faculty advisor, made sure the teaching jobs need to become more experience, it is the one of connection.” class was steeped in discussions about personalized, more lively, more current— culturally responsive teaching and youth filled with curiosity, experimentation, and voice. For Parks, it was a strong reminder new topics—to keep literacy and writing that her students—many of whom are engaging and fun.”

Remembering SEHD EdD student Reina Montez (Romero), most recently an assistant principal at East High School in Reina Montez Denver Public Schools, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly this fall. Her cohort and faculty miss her dearly. “We are all the beneficiaries of her love, kind personality, and leadership presence,” said Dr. Jim Amelia Parks, MA (Romero) student in Literacy Christensen, program coordinator and senior instructor in the Leadership for Educational Organizations Education program. Her ultimate goal was to become a superintendent of a school district. Our hearts go out to her entire family, including her husband, Brian; son, Corran; and mother, Jean. Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Denver, CO Permit No. 831

School of Education & Human Development Campus Box 106 PO Box 173364 Denver, CO 80217-3364

Many concentrations EDD are available, including our new PhD in early PHD childhood policy. PSYD

Learn more and apply by Dec. 1 at education.ucdenver.edu/doctorate