Southeastern College of Education Dean Paula Summers Calderon was recently selected by Deans for Impact for a 2019 Impact Academy fellowship, a yearlong program for leaders of educator-preparation programs. A resident of Baton Rouge, Calderon, the only dean chosen from Louisiana, was one of 19 fellows selected nationwide.
“The 19 fellows in the cohort hail from 12 states ranging from Alaska down to New Mexico, Mississippi up to Massachusetts, and collectively prepare more than 7,600 teachers each year,” said Deans for Impact Senior Program Director John Roberts. “We’re excited to work alongside the fellows this year as they learn from one another and lead improvements in their own programs.”
Deans for Impact is an organization committed to transforming educator preparation so all teachers graduate ready for the classroom on day one, Roberts explained. The Impact Academy combines intensive in-person learning experiences with ongoing coaching and mentorship from veteran members of Deans for Impact, creating a network of fellows focused on improving how their programs prepare future teachers.
“Our mission is to improve student-learning outcomes by changing the way this country prepares teachers,” he said. “Our members are united behind a shared vision for a transformed educator-preparation system that graduates teachers prepared to measurably improve student learning.”
Through the academy, Calderon will connect with other educator preparation leaders who are committed to preparing effective teachers, learn the skills and strategies to solve complicated problems, and build the foundation to lead transformative change. Her fellowship began in July, when the fellows held their first meeting in Austin, Tex.
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