Fall 2024
ED 800: Concepts of Educational Inquiry
Kristy Cooper Stein
In ED 800, I engaged with the philosophical and methodological foundations of educational research. I explored qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods approaches, analyzing how research questions, design, and interpretation influence educational practice and policy. The course equipped me with the tools to critically evaluate research, design meaningful inquiries, and use evidence to drive systemic improvement. It also sharpened my ability to bridge theory and practice in ways that serve both scholarship and real-world educational needs.
TE 846: Accommodating Differences in Literacy Learners
Raven Jones
TE 846 focused on strategies for meeting the literacy needs of diverse learners, including those with learning differences, language barriers, and varied cultural backgrounds. I examined differentiated instruction, targeted interventions, and inclusive assessment practices. The course reinforced the importance of recognizing each learner’s strengths and challenges, and it prepared me to design literacy instruction that is equitable, accessible, and empowering for all students.
EAD 822: Diverse Students and Families
Jada Phelps
This class challenged me to examine the cultural, linguistic, and socio-economic diversity present in today’s schools, as well as the systemic inequities that shape student and family experiences. Through case studies and community engagement, I learned strategies for building authentic, collaborative relationships with families and creating culturally responsive school policies. This course strengthened my belief that equity-focused leadership requires listening to, learning from, and partnering with the communities we serve.
CEP 802: Developing Positive Attitudes Toward Learning
E Wong
I explored strategies to cultivate student motivation, resilience, and engagement in diverse educational settings. The course deepened my understanding of how teacher beliefs, classroom culture, and instructional practices shape student attitudes toward learning. I developed tools to foster a growth mindset, promote student agency, and create environments where learners feel valued and supported. This work reinforced my commitment to centering student voice and designing classrooms that honor the whole child.
Spring 2025
TE 823: Learning Communities and Equity
Kyle Chong
TE 823 examined the power of collaborative learning communities to advance equity and student success. We discussed how school cultures, professional learning structures, and shared inquiry can address systemic barriers to achievement. While the course challenged me in its scope and complexity, it ultimately underscored the necessity of collective responsibility in creating equitable educational environments.
EAD 801: Leadership and Organizational Development
Lara Dixon
EAD 801 introduced me to key theories and practices in organizational leadership, with a focus on building adaptive, collaborative, and equity-centered school cultures. I learned strategies for fostering trust, managing change, and aligning organizational structures with shared values and goals. This course solidified my vision of leadership as a relational, mission-driven practice that inspires collective action toward educational equity.
CEP 800: Learning in School and Other Settings
Zach Rondot
CEP 800 expanded my perspective on how learning occurs both inside and outside the classroom. We examined cognitive, social, and cultural influences on learning, as well as the role of informal and community-based learning environments. This course highlighted the value of lifelong learning and reminded me that schools must be deeply connected to the broader communities they serve.
CEP 801: Psychological Development: Learner Differences and Commonalities
David Wong
In CEP 801, I studied the psychological development of learners across childhood and adolescence, focusing on both individual differences and shared developmental milestones. I explored theories of cognitive, emotional, and social development, gaining insight into how these factors influence teaching and learning. The course challenged me to design instruction that is responsive to developmental stages while honoring the uniqueness of each learner.
Summer 2025
EAD 860: Concepts of a Learning Society
Emiko Blalock
In EAD 860, I explored the idea of a “learning society”, one in which education is not confined to formal schooling but is integrated throughout all stages of life. We examined global perspectives on lifelong learning, knowledge economies, and the role of education in civic and social well-being. This course encouraged me to envision leadership beyond the school building, influencing broader societal systems that shape access to learning.
EAD 870: Capstone Seminar
Matthew Koehler
The Capstone Seminar is the culminating experience of my master’s program, providing the space to synthesize my learning, critically reflect on my growth, and articulate my vision for educational leadership. Through this course, I am integrating insights from my academic work, professional experiences, and personal commitments to equity and systemic change. My capstone portfolio serves as both the final product of this course and a living document that will guide my ongoing journey.