Embedded Files
Dr. Christen Glenn, Learning Specialist
Dr. Christen Glenn, Learning Specialist
by Dr. Jeremy Sullivan
Dr. Christen Glenn began her teaching career in an elementary classroom in Marionville, Missouri. The winds of change brought her to Springfield Public Schools in 2013 when she began teaching at McGregor Elementary. In 2016 Christen left the classroom to help teachers use modern learning tools to enhance and transform teaching and learning as a blended learning specialist and now a learning specialist. In 2019 Christen reached a major career milestone when she received her Doctorate of Education in Education Leadership from Southwest Baptist University.
The 2020-2021 school year has brought some unique challenges with it. One of the largest challenges has been the need for teachers to design learning through three different instructional delivery lenses. Adam Bax, principal at Wilder Elementary, explained, “With back to school looking different this year, Christen has been instrumental in helping to support and facilitate professional learning by engaging our teaching team on their virtual and in-person instructional needs.”
Learning specialists are uniquely positioned to offer personalized support, coaching, and learning opportunities for all educators within our system. Mr. Bax connected Christen’s support to personalized needs when he said, “She has personalized learning particularly in the areas of Canvas and instructional strategies that support our building SAP to ensure success. Her expertise has also been valuable as I have transitioned as a new leader into the building this year. I appreciate her willingness to champion the needs of our teachers and students.”
No matter the support structure (coaching, collaborating, or consulting), the work requires a meaningful relationship between the specialist and whomever they are supporting. Christen’s ability to build these relationships was reflected in the following words, shared by Wilder Elementary teacher Christina Heinrichs: “Christen is an incredible asset to our building. She is available, flexible, and approachable. Her heart to serve and care for the teachers and students is evident. I am honored to work with her and regularly thankful for all she does.”
Page updated
Report abuse