Spence’s leadership and commitment to social justice drive her appointment as director
Fairleigh Dickinson University has announced the appointment of Kathryn Spence as the director of the Peter Sammartino School of Education. Spence, who has been serving as the interim director since July 2022, has been recognized for her exceptional leadership skills and dedication to social justice in education. With her extensive experience and commitment to equitable educational practices, Spence is poised to lead the School of Education to new heights.
A Proven Leader in Education
During her tenure as interim director, Spence demonstrated exemplary leadership skills in various roles within the School of Education. She served as the Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP) coordinator and the QUEST program director before assuming the interim director position. Her ability to lead and collaborate effectively made her an outstanding partner for collaborations both within and beyond the university.
A Focus on Social Justice and Equity
One of Spence’s notable achievements as interim director was leading the revision of the school’s certification programs for reapproval by the New Jersey Department of Education. Rather than focusing solely on compliance, Spence approached the process through a lens of social justice and equity-based educational practices. This approach reflects her commitment to ensuring that all students have access to high-quality teaching and learning opportunities.
Enhancing the Ed.D. Program
Under Spence’s leadership, the School of Education experienced a transformation in its highly successful Ed.D. program. She spearheaded efforts to shift the program’s focus to align with contemporary educational needs and recruited three exceptional scholars to join the faculty. These changes will further strengthen the program and provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field of education.
Building a Collaborative Community
In addition to her accomplishments within the School of Education, Spence also prioritized enhancing the climate of the department. Her warmth and charisma played a crucial role in engaging faculty, staff, and students in collaborative work. By fostering a sense of community, Spence created an environment that encourages teamwork and innovation, benefiting both the school and its students.
A Commitment to Public Education
Spence’s extensive experience in public middle and high schools, particularly in the New York City Public School district, underscores her commitment to public education. Her background as a former middle and high school English teacher, as well as her teaching experience in diverse settings, has shaped her belief in providing equitable access to high-quality education for all students. This commitment will undoubtedly drive her leadership as the director of the School of Education.
Conclusion:
Kathryn Spence’s appointment as the director of Fairleigh Dickinson University’s School of Education heralds a new era for the department. With her proven leadership skills, commitment to social justice, and dedication to public education, Spence is poised to lead the school to new heights. Her focus on equitable educational practices and building a collaborative community will ensure that the School of Education continues to provide high-quality teaching and learning opportunities for students. As Spence takes on this role, her vision and expertise will undoubtedly shape the future of education at Fairleigh Dickinson University and beyond.
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