by Alicia Moore
Dr. Jeremy Sullivan’s career brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our district. His career spans New York City to southwest Missouri, and includes teaching at an alternative middle school, two high schools, serving as a blended learning specialist, and now as a learning specialist. He holds a BFA in Theatre Arts from Stephens College, a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Missouri State University, and an Educational Doctorate in Instructional Leadership from Lindenwood University. Dr. Sullivan is also a Google Certified Trainer and WeVideo Ambassador, has presented at numerous regional and national education conferences, and was selected as a 2020 METC Spotlight Educator.
While his resume looks impressive, the true testament to Jeremy’s value is the way he channels those experiences into his daily work as a learning specialist. Devin Napoli, a Year 1 STEP UP teacher at Springfield Options Site, says, “Jeremy Sullivan has been a compassionate, knowledgeable, and supportive mentor. He comes to work every day with an attitude of professionalism, grace, and a deep love for kids who experience challenges as well as the teachers who guide them.” This approach to work has been consistent, whether he’s supporting teachers new to the profession or experienced teachers who are venturing into tech integration. Sue Hadden, Central math department chair, shares that Jeremy was a helpful guide when IGNiTE was new at Central: “He was patient, kind, helpful and always willing to listen and give some ideas on how to best use the technology that I was trying to learn.”
Jeremy is defined by his passion for continuous growth and reflection. According to Central’s Interim Principal, Judy Brunner, “He is intuitive and professional, and he is skillful in helping other educators reflect, internalize suggestions, and apply what is learned. Whether he is coaching an administrator in how to support teachers or coaching teachers in how to support students, Dr. Sullivan honors confidentiality and provides critically important information for the sole purpose of moving academic achievement in a positive direction.”
Colton Lightner, second year Central teacher, confirms Jeremy’s commitment to building capacity in all. “Jeremy couldn’t be more passionate about driving all educators to greater excellence, and the kids are always his motive. He is somebody that wants to see our district and educators succeed in order for kids to have a more engaging, relevant and personal learning experience.”