Diversity & Equity

Steve Van Bockern is a professor of education at Augustana University in South Dakota. Formerly a teacher and principal, his research interests include resiliency, alternative education, restorative justice, bullying, discipline, and creating well-being.

Jillayne Flanders the executive director of the Center for Educational Improvement, a nonprofit organization focused on supporting mindful and compassionate schools with heart-centered, trauma-informed practices. She has taught graduate classes at Westfield State University, supervised student teachers at Mount Holyoke College, and lectured at Boston University, Springfield College, Boston College, and Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Jason D. Cummins (Awachíikaate) is an Indigenous scholar with over 20 years of experience in education, having served in various roles including teacher, instructional coach, and administrator. He is a contributing author of The School Wellness Wheel, coauthor of Humanized Education, and a professor of educational leadership at Montana State University. Jason has worked with schools on a range of initiatives, from implementing traditional school improvement efforts to culturally sustaining, trauma-informed, and restorative approaches.

Randy Ross has over 50 years of experience as a writer, teacher, administrator, coach, and facilitator of dialogue and professional learning. She has worked with community, school, district, and state education leaders for nearly 30 years.

Erin is a high school and continuing education teacher, curriculum writer, video producer, co-founder of PBL Path, and national project-based learning consultant and coach. Erin finds great meaning in guiding leaders’ and teachers’ identity and equity journeys, building assessment tools side by side with educators and students, and connecting project ideas to community partners.

Micki Evans is a writer, education consultant, and co-founder of the learning organization and consultancy PBL Path. Her work focuses on transformative liberatory teaching practices.

Mark Anthony Gooden, PhD, is a Christian Johnson Endeavor professor of education leadership at Teachers College, Columbia University. Dr. Gooden has spent over two decades in higher education developing and teaching courses in culturally responsive leadership, race, law, and research methods.

Dr. Dawn Brooks DeCosta, EdD, is a distinguished educator and leader, currently serving as the deputy superintendent for Harlem Community School District 5. She is a renowned advocate for culturally responsive teaching and social-emotional learning.

Jacobē Bell has nearly 20 years of service as a teacher, instructional coach, and network administrator. Her experience spans coaching principals, teachers, and network teams; teaching students at every grade level; and designing culturally responsive curriculum and professional development sessions.

Sheldon L. Eakins, PhD, is an author, speaker, and founder of the Purposeful Teaching Academy. He helps educators create student-centered learning environments where all students thrive, specializing in leadership development, school culture, and practical teaching strategies.