Episodes

  • Before I get into who Breana Jacques and Shannon Finnegan are, I want to introduce you to a life-changing course from Dr. Akilah Willery.

    The Midlife Educator's Job Search Blueprint is your personalized roadmap to navigating career transitions confidently. Whether you're seeking a leadership role in K12 education or exploring new paths beyond the classroom, this beginner-friendly, 6-module support program equips you with the actionable steps you need to shine.

    You can learn more about the course here: https://upskillservices.mykajabi.com/a/2147852369/pCgXU4Wd

    Meet Breana and Shannon

    Breana Jacques and Shannon Finnegan are innovative and award-winning educators with over 25 years of classroom teaching experience across multiple contexts. Their shared passion and commitment for disrupting and reimagining the education system for and with learners drives their work. Together, they founded The Loop Consulting Collective to disrupt harmful practices, reimagine possibilities, and build pathways for sustainable change in schools and organizations.

    Takeaways

    Mindset and confidence are key when starting a business as an educational consultant.Doing your homework and talking to others in the field can help you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.The Loop Consulting Collective focuses on disrupting and reimagining the education system by working with schools and organizations to create student-centered and humane learning environments.Their services include curriculum review and development, instructional coaching, and training on restorative culture and engagement strategies.They have an adjustable fee structure to accommodate schools with different financial situations.Misconceptions about education consulting include the belief that consultants are only in it for the money and that they have nothing of value to add if they are not currently in the classroom.

    Sound Bites

    "We're going to be talking about how they got into education, what made them launch their company, and we're going to get into the work that they're doing and get some other gems from them as well.""What do you know to be true about yourself? What do you know to be true about your field? And so I think it's really important to really understand your why, what fuels your passion.""We knew we wanted to make an impact on the education system. And so it was really about how can we maximize our impact? What position are we gonna put ourselves in to be able to really like push at systems and walk alongside people who are ready to do some disruptive, some necessary disruption in educational spaces."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Dr. Will Show and the Loop Consulting Collective

    08:18 Mindset and Confidence: Keys to Starting a Successful Consulting Business

    11:35 Customization and Collaboration: The Approach of the Loop Consulting Collective

    15:34 Services Offered: Curriculum Review, Instructional Coaching, and More

    27:31 Challenging Misconceptions: The Value of Education Consultants

    Don't forget to get your copy of my book, The Edupreneur on Amazon.

    What sets this book apart is its authenticity, featuring firsthand narratives from real educators who have successfully monetized their talents beyond traditional classrooms. Their stories serve as inspiring examples, offering valuable insights and practical advice. If you're ready to transform your educational expertise into a flourishing business, The Edupreneur is your go-to resource. Don't miss out —grab your copy now and embark on a journey towards building a successful education business. Purchase the book today and unlock the blueprint for your edupreneurial success.

  • Before I get into who Dr. Will is, I want to introduce you to a life-changing course from Dr. Akilah Willery.

    The Midlife Educator's Job Search Blueprint is your personalized roadmap to navigating career transitions confidently. Whether you're seeking a leadership role in K12 education or exploring new paths beyond the classroom, this beginner-friendly, 6-module support program equips you with the actionable steps you need to shine.

    You can learn more about the course here: https://upskillservices.mykajabi.com/a/2147852369/pCgXU4Wd

    Meet Dr. Will

    As seen on Forbes.com, Schoology Exchange, District Administration, EdSurge, iNACOL, and TechEdge magazine, Will Deyamport, III, Ed.D. is a District Instructional Technologist for a K12 school district. Dr. Will, as he is better known as, specializes in assisting educators in going digital. In this role, he delivers in-person and virtual training, coaching, and designs and delivers online professional development courses and live webinars for teachers in grades K-12.

    Additionally, Dr. Will is the creator and host of The Dr. Will Show Podcast, freelance writer, author, and educational consultant.

    On March 19th of this year, EduMatch Publishing released Dr. Will’s first book, The Edupreneur: Your Blueprint To Jumpstart And Scale Your Education Business.

    The book goes beyond the conventional business literature, providing a comprehensive roadmap from the initial idea to the successful launch and expansion of an education business.

    In addition, this is the fifth year anniversary of Dr. Will’s documentary, The Edupreneur: Making the Impact and the Income was released. The movie takes you on a journey into the successes and challenges of some of the most recognized names in K-12 education consulting. The interviews feature eight edupreneurs discussing their lives and careers as educators and entrepreneurs.

    You can get your digital copy of The Edupreneur on Vimeo OnDemand.

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  • Before I get into who Dr. Andrea is, I want to introduce you to a life-changing course from Dr. Akilah Willery.

    The Midlife Educator's Job Search Blueprint is your personalized roadmap to navigating career transitions confidently. Whether you're seeking a leadership role in K12 education or exploring new paths beyond the classroom, this beginner-friendly, 6-module support program equips you with the actionable steps you need to shine.

    You can learn more about the course here: https://upskillservices.mykajabi.com/a/2147852369/pCgXU4Wd

    Meet Dr. Andrea Terrero Gabbadon

    Dr. Andrea Terrero Gabbadon (she/her/ella) is an author, scholar, and the founder/lead principal consultant of ILM Consulting Group. Dr. Gabbadon's work touches on culturally responsive and sustaining education, school racial climate, and educator diversity. Previously, she served as a high school teacher, teacher leader, instructional coach, and assistant principal/director of curriculum and instruction in both traditional public and charter schools. Dr. Gabbadon has also served as an instructor of undergraduate and graduate education at numerous institutions of higher education, including Temple University and Swarthmore College. Dr. Gabbadon's scholarship has been published in leading academic journals such as Urban Education, The Urban Review, and Educational Leadership Magazine. She is also the author of "Support and Retain Educators of Color: 6 Principles for Culturally Affirming Leadership" in publication with the Association for Supervision, and Curriculum Development (ASCD).

    Book link: https://www.amazon.com/Support-Retain-Educators-Color-Principles/dp/1416632123?dplnkId=21091ef0-6744-4f67-a2d6-5536c556c7af&nodl=1

    Link tree: https://linktr.ee/Atgabbadon

  • Before I get into who Alicia is, I want to introduce you to a life-changing course from Dr. Akilah Willery.

    The Midlife Educator's Job Search Blueprint is your personalized roadmap to navigating career transitions confidently. Whether you're seeking a leadership role in K12 education or exploring new paths beyond the classroom, this beginner-friendly, 6-module support program equips you with the actionable steps you need to shine.

    You can learn more about the course here: https://upskillservices.mykajabi.com/a/2147852369/pCgXU4Wd

    Meet Alicia M. Williams

    Alicia M. Williams, M.S.L, CCT, is the visionary owner and founder of Training Source One, Inc. With a passion for education and a keen eye for professional development, Alicia has established Training Source One as a nationally accredited training organization. Leveraging her expertise as an educator and professional development trainer, Alicia spearheads transformative programs that unlock the full potential of individuals and organizations across diverse fields nationwide.

    Additionally, she is the author of the book, "Becoming an Edupreneur: My Journey to Building a Profitable Training Business from Scratch." In this book, Alicia shares her personal journey and invaluable insights, empowering aspiring educators to embark on their own path to success.

    Alicia's mission extends beyond training; she aims to elevate professional practices, enhance systems, and cultivate a culture of excellence within teams. Through accredited leadership training programs, she instills enthusiasm, passion, and expertise in every participant, driving sustained growth and success.

    Contact Information:

    Email: [email protected]
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trainingsourceone/

    Takeaways

    - Starting a business requires coaching and investing in tools and platforms that support the business.

    - Trainers should focus on solving specific problems and offer valuable solutions to their target audience.

    - Accreditation and offering continuing education units (CEUs) can enhance the credibility and value of training services.

    - Personal stories and transparency can make a book more relatable and engaging for readers.

    - Marketing and branding are essential for reaching and connecting with the target audience. Offering continuing education units (CEUs) can be a game changer for teachers and training providers, as it provides a tangible benefit and helps with license renewal.

    - Having a strong online presence and a clear brand identity is crucial for success in the training industry.

    - Charging the right price for services is important to avoid devaluing the expertise and to ensure scalability.

    - Consistency in marketing strategies, such as sharing valuable content and solving problems, helps build trust and attract clients.

    - Technology plays a significant role in the training industry, and offering flexible training options, including online, in-person, and hybrid formats, is essential to meet the diverse needs of clients.

    Sound Bites

    "Using your teacher skills to turn them into dollar bills."

    "You're going to make your money from the how."

    "You can do this full time. You can do this for real."

    "That's a game changer at that point, because you're not just coming in and providing that transformation. There's that big payoff at the end."

    "Get you in the door and you'll be able to actually offer CEUs at these conferences."

    "I wanted them to be able to go and get all the resources that they need because there's two aspects. There's a business blueprint where I give a whole lot of tips."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background

    04:15 Becoming an Entrepreneur

    08:00 Coaching and Financial Investments

    10:00 Solving Problems and Providing Value

    13:58 Accreditation and CEUs

    25:37 Marketing and Branding

    28:02 The Game-Changing Power of Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

    29:02 Building a Strong Online Presence and Brand Identity

    30:09 The Importance of Charging the Right Price for Services

    36:33 Consistency in Marketing Strategies for Success

    43:00 The Impact of Technology on the Training Industry

    50:17 Offering Flexible Training Options to Meet Client Needs

  • Before I get into who Ashley Starwood is, I want to introduce you to a life-changing course from Dr. Akilah Willery.

    The Midlife Educator's Job Search Blueprint is your personalized roadmap to navigating career transitions confidently. Whether you're seeking a leadership role in K12 education or exploring new paths beyond the classroom, this beginner-friendly, 6-module support program equips you with the actionable steps you need to shine.

    You can learn more about the course here: https://upskillservices.mykajabi.com/a/2147852369/pCgXU4Wd

    Meet Ashley

    Ashley Starwood, LCSW holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Aurora University and an undergraduate degree from Northern Illinois University. She is a licensed therapist with a deep commitment to empowering clients to reach their full potential. Ashley specializes in trauma related to the BIPOC experiences and couples therapy, creating a safe and supportive space for healing and growth.

    Beyond her clinical experience, Ashley has pursued additional training in areas like happiness coaching, hypnotherapy, crisis prevention, and is a certified yoga teacher. She is also a published author, leveraging her book "Writing with Love: A Guided Journal for Couples" and workbook "A Spark to a Flame" to further support relationship strengthening.

    Ashley integrates mindfulness and a broad range of therapeutic approaches to tailor treatment plans for each client. She is a fully- trained EMDR therapist, trained in a powerful technique for addressing trauma. Her ultimate goal is to equip clients with the tools and resources they need to move forward in a positive and empowered way.

    Links:

    campsite.bio/ashleystarwood

    Facebook.com/AshleyStarwood

    Instagram.com/leadingwithlovellc

    Takeaways

    - Ashley Starwood is a licensed clinical social worker and founder of Leading with Love LLC.

    - She takes a holistic approach to therapy, focusing on healing the mind, body, and spirit.

    - Specialization is important in coaching and therapy, as it allows practitioners to focus on their areas of expertise and provide the best support to their clients.

    - Starting and running a mental health practice can be challenging, but outsourcing tasks and seeking support from reputable companies can help navigate the complexities of insurance and billing.

    - Gaining experience in the field is invaluable before starting a private practice, but education on the business side of therapy can also be beneficial.

    - Entrepreneurs and educators interested in launching their own businesses should get out of their own way and recognize the value of their expertise and experiences.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background

    04:28 Taking a Holistic Approach to Therapy

    08:08 The Importance of Specialization in Coaching and Therapy

    15:40 Challenges of Starting and Running a Mental Health Practice

    21:09 Balancing Experience and Education in Private Practice

  • Before I get into who Dr. Kesslyn is, I want to introduce you to a life-changing course from Dr. Akilah Willery.

    The Midlife Educator's Job Search Blueprint is your personalized roadmap to navigating career transitions confidently. Whether you're seeking a leadership role in K12 education or exploring new paths beyond the classroom, this beginner-friendly, 6-module support program equips you with the actionable steps you need to shine.

    You can learn more about the course here: https://upskillservices.mykajabi.com/a/2147852369/pCgXU4Wd

    Dr. Kesslyn is an educator, doctoral coach, speaker, and author. Dr. Kesslyn Brade Stennis' goal is to be a dynamic difference-maker!

    As an award-winning educator, a leading doctoral coach, respected international personal empowerment speaker, and noted faith community servant-leader, it is her mission to inform and inspire as many as possible to live in a space where apex and opportunity intersect.

    Dr. Kesslyn holds several degrees: PhD in Social Work and a Master's of Divinity from Howard University, a Master's of Social Work Degree from The Ohio State University, and a Certificate in Women's Studies, also from Howard University. And she is a proud graduate from Oakwood College!

    Currently, she is Director of the Minority Fellowship Program at the Council on Social Work Education. There she supports doctoral and master's students through their academic programs. She also addresses a wide range of issues faced by emerging BIPOC scholars and marginalized communities including diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, racism, oppression, and marginalization.

    Prior to this position, Dr. Kesslyn was a tenured Full Professor in the Department of Social Work and was the Executive Director of the Dr. Dorothy I. Height Center for the Advancement of Social Justice at Coppin State University.

    In addition, she is Founder of Kesslyn Enterprises, LLC, and is Chief Coach and Consultant with The PhD Consultants which she founded to provide inspiration and information for doctoral pursuers so they too can leverage their knowledge and experience to make a difference in the world.

  • Before I get into who Dr. Toy Watts is, I want to introduce you to a life-changing course from Dr. Akilah Willery.

    The Midlife Educator's Job Search Blueprint is your personalized roadmap to navigating career transitions confidently. Whether you're seeking a leadership role in K12 education or exploring new paths beyond the classroom, this beginner-friendly, 6-module support program equips you with the actionable steps you need to shine.

    You can learn more about the course here: https://upskillservices.mykajabi.com/a/2147852369/pCgXU4Wd

    Dr. Toy L. Watts made history when she was named Superintendent of the Laurel School District in 2018. She is the first woman to serve as superintendent of education in the district’s 133 years of educating the children of Laurel.

    Since serving as the superintendent, the district has seen digital upgrades in all areas of operation, increased recruitment leading to the employment of high caliber applicants in the areas of teaching and administration, the district’s six schools saw gains on state test scores with one school achieving the district’s first A rating and maintaining that rating for five consecutive years, leading to being named a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School. On the high school level, college scholarship offers doubled and the school achieved a 90 percent graduation rate, the highest since tracking began. Due to a renewed focus, the high school recently became a B-rated school. Additionally, the district underwent a complete restructuring, including moving campuses, creating grade-level schools and increasing early education opportunities. Calm under pressure, Dr. Watts has faced the challenges of an EF3 tornado, a global pandemic, and four devastating fires during her tenure. Watts has served as a keynote speaker on the state level, guest panelist on the national level, and is a contributing author.

    Dr. Watts received a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Dillard University, a Master of Education in School Counseling, a Specialist in Education in Educational Administration and a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi. Dr. Watts is a seasoned leader with 28 years of experience in education, having served as a teacher, counselor, coach, principal, assistant superintendent and superintendent.

  • Before, I get into who Dr. Melanie Wells is, I want to introduce you to a life-changing course from Dr. Akilah Willery.

    The Midlife Educator's Job Search Blueprint is your personalized roadmap to navigating career transitions confidently. Whether you're seeking a leadership role in K12 education or exploring new paths beyond the classroom, this beginner-friendly, 6-module support program equips you with the actionable steps you need to shine.

    You can learn more about the course here: https://upskillservices.mykajabi.com/a/2147852369/pCgXU4Wd

    Melanie Wells is a transformative leader with over 17 years of experience as an educator. Her post-compulsory educational training includes Jackson State University (bachelor's degree), Mississippi College (master's and specialist degrees) and The University of Mississippi (Specialist in Ed. Leadership). She has teaching and administrative experience in both title and non-title schools at the elementary and secondary levels. Her expertise includes brain-based research, engagement, and motivation.

    Dr. Melanie earned her Doctoral degree from William Carey University.

    You can purchase Dr. Wells' book, Hybrid Learning Environments from Amazon.

  • Before, I get into who Wendy Turner, M.Ed. is, I want to introduce you to a life-changing course from Dr. Akilah Willery.

    The Midlife Educator's Job Search Blueprint is your personalized roadmap to navigating career transitions confidently. Whether you're seeking a leadership role in K12 education or exploring new paths beyond the classroom, this beginner-friendly, 6-module support program equips you with the actionable steps you need to shine.

    You can learn more about the course here: https://upskillservices.mykajabi.com/a/2147852369/pCgXU4Wd

    Meet Wendy Turner, M.Ed.

    Wendy is passionate about connecting learning in the classroom to the real world. Deeply committed to social-emotional learning, she guides her students to embody respect, empathy, resilience, citizenship, and growth mindset through dynamic classroom experiences. In 2017, Wendy was named the Delaware Teacher of the Year. Additional awards and leadership include being named a Delaware Compassion Champion Awardee, an NEA Foundation Global Learning Fellow culminating with field-work in South Africa, and a Presidential Awardee for Excellence in Teaching Science. Currently, she is an SEL expert, advocate, and trainer and is serving on the Delaware State Board of Education, and author of Embracing Adult SEL: An Educator's Guide to Personal Social Emotional Success.

    Find a collection of her work here: https://wakelet.com/wake/7cc3e89b-78eb-486a-84a3-5873d417e503

    Connect with Wendy:

    email [email protected] @mrswendymturnerbFacebook @2017DETOYLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-turner-1200905/
  • Before, I get into who Dr. Oh is, I want to introduce you to a life-changing course from Dr. Akilah Willery.

    The Midlife Educator's Job Search Blueprint is your personalized roadmap to navigating career transitions confidently. Whether you're seeking a leadership role in K12 education or exploring new paths beyond the classroom, this beginner-friendly, 6-module support program equips you with the actionable steps you need to shine.

    You can learn more about the course here: https://upskillservices.mykajabi.com/a/2147852369/pCgXU4Wd

    Now, allow me to introduce you to Dr. Oh.

    Dr. Orinthia Harris, affectionately known as “Dr. Oh,” is the founder and executive director of STEMearly LLC. With a steadfast commitment to nurturing young minds and igniting a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), Dr. Harris has emerged as a leading figure in shaping the future of education.

    Armed with a wealth of experience and a boundless enthusiasm for learning, Dr. Harris embarked on her journey in academia, earning accolades for her dedication to teaching and research. However, it was her keen insight and unwavering belief in the transformative power of early STEM education that propelled her to new heights.

    As the founder of STEMearly, LLC, Dr. Harris has made it her mission to revolutionize the way we approach STEM learning, advocating for inclusive and accessible education for all. Through innovative programs and strategic consulting services, she empowers educators, institutions, and communities to embrace STEM education as a cornerstone of progress and opportunity.

    With a dynamic blend of expertise, passion, and a vision for a brighter future, Dr. Orinthia Harris continues to pave the way for the next generation of STEM leaders. Her dedication to excellence and tireless advocacy serve as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on shaping the world we live in. Join us as we celebrate the remarkable achievements and enduring legacy of Dr. Orinthia Harris, a true champion of STEM education and a catalyst for change.

  • As the 2019 LA Lakers Business Woman and the 2015 CA Charter Teacher of the Year, Genein is a national thought leader and creator of the concept of ‘Intercultural Creativity®, NeuroSomatic Creativity®’ and Prismatic Leadership®. She is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of CAFFE Strategies, Inc which is a consulting, coaching and training company that trains C-Suite executives and employees to create sustainable organizational creative and inclusive strategies, based on neuroscience, while unleashing their innovative thinking for themselves and in their businesses.

    Her 7 Gems of Intercultural Creativity® is a leading framework that encourages corporations in their diversity and inclusion development while developing critical cognitive tools for creative thinking. Her first book, From Debt To Destiny: Creating Financial Freedom From the Inside Out connects creative thinking to financial agility and was an international bestseller in 5 finance categories. Her book, 7 Gems of Intercultural Creativity: Connecting, Creating and Innovating Across Cultural Lines is the only book on this topic. She published her children’s books, I AM CREATIVE and My Brain My Brain My Beautiful Brain with her 5-year-old son, Shawn Letford. Her next leadership book, Your Brain, Your Bias and the Beauty of Your Creative Mind is due out at the end of 2024. Genein believes creative thinking thrives best in an inclusive environment and she is often called ‘America’s Creative Coach’ for her work in reigniting intercultural creativity within our workforce.

    Genein Letford Social Media Submission:

    Purchase books here: https://caffestrategies.com/store/

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/genein/

    https://www.facebook.com/GeneinSpeaks/

    https://twitter.com/GeneinLetford

    www.instagram.com/geneinletford/

  • Allyson is passionate about celebrating the strengths in the staff and students she serves. She has been an educator for over 20 years, spending 15 of those years as a school leader. She has worked with students from preschool through high school, and is currently an elementary principal. She is transparent, vulnerable, eternally optimistic, and she doesn’t ask questions unless she is open to the answers.

    Despite the fact that she never wanted to step foot in a school again after graduation, there is no where else she’d rather spend her days. You will find her dancing with students in the hallways in the mornings with her JammyPack, and in classrooms throughout the day. She doesn’t have a chair at her desk because you won’t often find her there.

    Allyson’s background includes being certified in William Glasser’s Choice Theory, being a Certified Trauma-Informed Practitioner in Education, and she is the author of The Path to Serendipity. In addition, she serves on the Executive Board of Directors for the Michigan Elementary and Middle Schools Principals Association as the State and Federal Relations Coordinator.

    Allyson is a dynamic speaker who fills the room with energy. She specializes in captivating presentations that are emotional journeys for all present. The participants are laughing, crying, surprised, and reflecting throughout their time together. She often incorporates multimedia technology tools to support the interactive format. There is no doubt that participants walk out of her keynotes or presentations changed, with new perspectives, new goals, and strategies to implement right away.

    Popular topics from Allyson Apsey:

    Finding Your Own Path to Serendipity
    Supporting Students, Staff and Families Affected by Trauma
    Leading From the Inside Out
    Embracing Challenges
    Building Strong, Positive Relationships
    Creating Need-Satisfying Environments Where People Thrive
    Leading Through Learning
    Bringing the Fun Back to our Hard Work
    A Grateful, Hopeful, and Joyful Life
    Leading the Whole Teacher
    Own Your Story

    In addition to this list of topics, Allyson can customize a presentation for your organization or event.

  • Alana Winnick resides in New York City and currently holds key leadership positions as the Educational Technology Director and Data Protection Officer for Pocantico Hills Central School District in Sleepy Hollow, NY, and the Hudson Valley Director for The New York State Association for Computers and Technologies in Education (NYSCATE), where she blends her degrees, certifications, and experience in Childhood Education, Educational Technology, and Educational Leadership.

    Alana is the author of The Generative Age: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Education and host of The Generative Age podcast, powered by NYSCATE, which explores the rapidly evolving world of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on education. She has been at the forefront of innovation in the industry and has supported both her region and NYS during several disruptive transformations, including the migration to cloud computing, navigating the challenges brought on by the pandemic, and the emergence of generative AI. Recognized for her contributions, Alana has received the Innovative Tech Director award from Tech & Learning and has been named an EDSAFE Women in AI Fellow.

  • Dr. Breauna C. Wall stands as a distinguished figure in the education sector, with a career spanning over a decade, characterized by a blend of academic excellence and practical leadership. Breauna holds a Doctor of Education from Johns Hopkins University, a Master’s in Educational Leadership - Principalship from Northern Arizona University, and a Master’s in Special Education from Arizona State University, reflecting a deep and diverse academic foundation. Additionally, she gratudated from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor's in Sociology, Crime, Law and Deviance.

    As a Clinical Practice Supervisor and Lecturer at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, Breauna imparts extensive knowledge to students across various credential and master’s degree programs. This role emphasizes the alignment of educational practices with California’s P-12 content standards, fostering diversity, inclusion, and the use of advanced educational methodologies and technologies.

  • Skilled as an educator, professional development guru, and leadership coach, Noemi Pavon has eleven years of experience in fiercely fighting and advocating for educational equity for students from socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. The first Latina principal in the state of South Carolina, former Lower School Principal at KIPP and alumna of Teach for America, Pavon leverages her expertise through cultivating leaders and teams in multiple sectors, including education, non-profit, small businesses and governmental agencies.

    As founder of The Pavon Firm, LLC, she has coached and consulted nationwide, including leaders in Georgia, South Carolina, California, Washington, D.C. and the Caribbean, impacting a network of 10,000+ students. Her work focuses on enabling world-class leadership, professional development, and strategic organizational management.

    Aligned with her passion for empowering youth, women, and underserved communities, she has a track record of forging partnerships and coalitions with business and community partners. Pavon has collaborated with and served multiple organizations, including the South Carolina State Charter School Districts Advisory Board, the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) Advisory Board, and Mentors for Women in Leadership. She is a proud member of the World Affairs Council of Atlanta, the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc.

    Born and raised in New York, Pavon earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Georgia and a Masters of Education from Columbia University. When not working towards closing educational opportunity gaps, Pavon enjoys spending time with loved ones, reading, traveling, and practicing yoga.

  • Linda Rhyne is the owner of Linda Rhyne Consulting and founding president of The Reading League North Carolina. Linda is an award-winning National Board Certified, LETRS & Orton-Gillingham trained educator with 16 years of experience in education including Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, one of the nation's 20 largest urban school districts located in Charlotte, NC. She served in multiple positions in CMS: classroom teacher, literacy facilitator, new teacher support coordinator, and Southeast Learning Community coordinator, with 10+ years of experience as an instructional coach. In her free time, you can find her playing with her two boys, hanging with her husband, reading, and working out.

    Website: https://www.lindarhyneconsulting.com/

    Email: [email protected]

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindarhyneconsulting/

    X: https://twitter.com/lindaschultzie

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lindarhyneconsulting

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-schultz-rhyne-91704b93/


  • Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket is a wife, mother, principal, public speaker, and author. With decades as a teacher and leader in public education, she has earned the reputation as a strong instructional leader, passionate educational advocate, and dedicated mentor. As the Principal of a top ranked school in Maryland, she is a life-long learner who strives for excellence not only for herself, but also for everyone she serves. Dr. Edoho-Eket’s belief in fostering meaningful relationships serves as the foundation for everything she does, and her highly effective teaching and leadership style continues to inspire up and coming aspiring teacher leaders. During her educational career, she has proudly served as a classroom teacher, instructional team leader, mentor teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal. Her book, “The Principal’s Journey: Navigating the Path to School Leadership” provides a helpful and practical blueprint for educators to follow as they transition into new leadership roles.

    Dr. Edoho-Eket holds a B.S. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Temple University, a M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction from McDaniel College, and a Doctorate in Leadership and Professional Practice from Trevecca Nazarene University.

  • Annie Tan is a writer, educator, storyteller, speaker, and activist based in New York City. Annie’s work as an educator and advocate has been featured in The New York Times, Huffington Post, The New Republic, PBS’ Asian Americans, and twice on The Moth Radio Hour. Annie is currently working on her first book, a memoir. Her writing has been supported by the Vermont Studio Center, the Tin House Writing Workshop, and the Bread Loaf Writers Conference.

    You can find Annie on Twitter and Instagram at annietangent. Annie is available for speaking engagements and storytelling events: you can see more about Annie’s speaking here. To contact Annie, email at [email protected] or fill out this contact form.

  • Katie Fielding is a dedicated STEM Coach in Prince William County Schools Virginia, with a rich background of 20 years in public education. Having spent 13 years as a science teacher and eight years as an instructional technology coach, Katie deeply understands the challenges and opportunities in integrating technology and STEM into teaching and learning practices.

    Specializing in creating accessible STEM classrooms, Katie is passionate about leveraging educational technology tools and assistive technologies to foster inclusive learning environments. This passion is rooted in Katie's personal experience as a disabled individual navigating educational barriers, driving a commitment to remove such obstacles for students.

    Katie actively advocates accessibility, creativity, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), sharing expertise through conference presentations, workshops, and district STEM programs. Recognized for this impactful work, Katie was honored as the VSTE (ISTE's Virginia affiliate) Coach of the Year.

    In addition to being an ISTE Certified Educator and Trainer, Katie holds certifications as a Google Innovator, Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, Adobe Creative Educator Innovator, and is UDL Level 2 certified. Katie is also actively involved in the Virginia ISTE Affiliate VSTE, serving on their equity and professional services committees. Beyond professional pursuits, Katie enjoys exploring the world of cheese and traveling to Scandinavia.

    With a vision for a future where all classrooms are accessible and inclusive, Katie continues to inspire and equip educators to make meaningful changes, ensuring that learning is a right, not a privilege, for every student. https://www.katiefielding.com/

    Social Media:

    (X) Twitter: https://twitter.com/KatieF

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiefielding/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fieldingnotes

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katief/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katie.fielding

  • Ms. Briana Bolt

    Director of Instructional Innovation and Digital Marketing | Business Consultant

    Briana Bolt is an innovative leader in the field of education, where she excels in creating synergies between technology, team collaboration, and holistic well-being approaches, setting new standards for leadership and innovation in both educational and business environments. As the Director of Instructional Innovation and Digital Marketing, she effectively utilizes collaborative teaching methods and supports the digital footprint and partnerships of educational institutions. Her consultancy work showcases her ability to blend strategic innovation with a commitment to creating supportive and inclusive environments, impacting operations and digital initiatives.

    In her role within education, Briana has been instrumental in collaborating with educators to integrate their passions into transformative teaching practices. She has also played a crucial role in guiding new teachers and enhancing community outreach online and in person. Her achievements in business consultancy have significantly influenced operational strategies and talent-nurturing processes.

    Among her notable achievements, Briana was nominated for the 2022 Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Education in collaboration. She led a team to victory in the World Artificial Intelligence Competition for Youth and has been recognized internationally for her work in well-being-focused curriculum development. Briana has been an integral member of leadership teams recognized with nominations for premier business awards, celebrating exceptional achievements and excellence in business.

    Briana holds a Bachelor of Education, certified to teach K-12, and has a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts. Currently, she is furthering her expertise by pursuing a Master's in Leadership, complementing her existing certifications in Inquiry, English Language Learning, Technology, Leadership, and Marketing.

    A dynamic speaker, Briana facilitates professional development sessions for educators and business teams, covering topics from educational technology to digital marketing trends, while also offering her expertise in assisting leadership teams with streamlining processes in business operations. This passion for connection and collaboration is vividly reflected, you can connect with her @BrianaBolt284 on Twitter “X” or on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/briana-bolt-ab8210158.

    Briana’s personal philosophy intertwines education with business acumen, advocating for innovative, risk-taking approaches in both domains. Her story of resilience, as a young mother who overcame challenges to become the first in her family to graduate from university, is a testament to her commitment to empowering others and her commitment to opportunities for growth and transformation.