Leah Massey Huttlinger is a middle grades science and math teacher at Green Valley School in Watauga County Schools. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, a Master of Arts in Middle Grades Education, and is currently a doctoral candidate for Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. She holds a Professional Teaching License in Grades 6-9 in both Science and Mathematics. Specific research interests include working with students with ACEs, beginning teacher support, and the effect of working conditions on teacher physical and mental health. She has worked in Title I schools for the past 15 years and believes treating students with compassion is the foundation of building a strong relationship with young people.

E-mail: leah.huttlinger@gmail.com

Andrea Gardner Nordberg is the media specialist at Hamlet Middle School in Richmond County Schools. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education, a Master of Library Science, and is currently a doctoral candidate for the Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. Andrea holds a Professional Teaching License as a Media Coordinator for grades K-12 as well as for English Language Arts and Science in grades 6-9. She has taught English Language Arts, science, and has done an interim in mathematics. Her specific research interests include working with students with trauma, standards based grading, and equitable educational practices. She has worked in Title I schools for the past 10 years and has seen, first-hand, how impactful compassionate care is for students with trauma.

E-mail: andinordberg@gmail.com