Faculty

Which classes do you teach online?

SELAD 7473: Field Study; ELAD 7493: Supervised Internship; ELAD 6593: Supervised Internship; ELCI 6493: Curriculum Internship

What do you want students to learn in your classes?

I would like for students to learn that the smart school leader of the 21st century knows how important public involvement is to the future of public education. Smart leaders must realize the leadership role in education is rapidly evolving, and they must work very hard at improving the leadership skills, the human relations skills and the communication skills they need to be such a leader.

What advice would you give to those considering this program?

Students need to be organized, take care of business and avoid procrastination! Students will have the opportunity to learn more than is needed to make a good grade in the course. Most courses make additional resources available to students who want to learn more—take advantage of those resources and learn more than you are required to know.

Students should establish a good working relationship with the site mentor in their building or district. They should take advantage of every opportunity to discuss course assignments with the mentor and learn the ins and outs of school leadership as they complete assignments in the courses.

What qualities make someone particularly successful in this area?

Good organizational skills, good communication skills and good leadership skills are essential qualities in Educational Leadership programs.

What do you think is the biggest challenge that educational leaders face today?

The biggest challenges for educational leaders is to stay well-informed and up-to-date regarding the cultural changes and the expectations of parents and the public at large. The cultural changes would include staying abreast of advances in technology and communication, changes in families, as well as school safety issues that are on the hearts and minds of leaders, teachers, parents and students.

Why did you start teaching?

My first teaching experience was in a small rural school in Arkansas. Teachers were highly respected and honored, and I wanted to be a part of a profession that was so highly regarded. I believed I could make a difference in the lives of the children who were entrusted to my care.

What is the one book you think everyone should read?

The Holy Bible

Tell us something your students may not know about you.

I am a traveler and a gardener, and I love sports as a spectator when my grandchildren are participating in football, baseball, softball or soccer. One granddaughter plays softball for the University of Oregon Ducks.