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Women in K-12 Educational Leadership: “Leaning In” and Lessons Learned
Wednesday, May 8, 2024 @ 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm EDT
Presented by Dr. Jennifer Bessolo, Professor of the Practice, Masters of Educational Administration Program Coordinator, University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences; and Dr. Carrie Mugridge, Executive Director of Learning Services, Santa Fe Trail USD 434 (KS)
Sponsored by Everspring Inc. on behalf of the University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences
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While the teaching profession is largely dominated by females, the educational leadership space does not mirror the same demographics. Why is this? Join us for a conversation with two experienced public education practitioners and school leaders whose service in the field and study at the higher education levels lend new perspectives and research that apply to the field and prospective recruitment and retention of female leaders.
This edWebinar will cover a myriad of topics, from the theories behind these numbers to imposter syndrome, and complex considerations and proposed solutions for not only women in the field considering these fields, but to those who are supporting, hiring, or mentoring women in leadership roles. This is a conversation about career growth and empowerment, strategies for those aspiring to leadership roles, and organizational improvement tactics that can shape and cultivate a fair systems approach for women to succeed, lead, and impact others.
This edWebinar will be of interest to teachers, librarians, school and district leaders, and education technology leaders at all grade levels. There will be time for questions at the end of the presentation.
About the Presenters
Jennifer Bessolo, Ed.D. coordinates and leads the MSE Educational Administration and the Ed.D. District Leadership program at the University of Kansas and serves as a professor of practice in both levels of study. She earned her doctorate in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Kansas and has a background in K-12 district and building leadership. Prior to the Professor of Practice position at the University of Kansas, Dr. Bessolo served 17 years in public school roles in Kansas and North Carolina, including director of curriculum, federal programs, and virtual learning; middle school and secondary director; principal; assistant principal; teacher; and coach.
A former mentor for the Kansas Educational Leadership Institute (KELI), she has coached principals in their first year of service in addition to previously teaching undergraduate and graduate courses at Washburn University, Fort Hayes University, and Baker University. She has served on several Kansas Department of Education statewide committees and has presented at the state and national levels on open educational resources and personalized problem-solving learning styles. Dr. Bessolo continues to serve in a leadership and curricular consulting role for regional school districts and stays connected to the K-12 leadership field through committee work and through service with the KU Center for Evaluation and Leadership (CEEL).
Dr. Carrie Mugridge is a seasoned educator with 24 years of experience spanning various roles within the field of education. Starting her career as a dedicated classroom teacher, she later transitioned into roles such as reading interventionist, director of curriculum and instruction, and now serves as the Executive Director of Learning Services for Santa Fe Trail USD 434 (KS). Dr. Mugridge is also a passionate researcher, focusing her doctoral dissertation on women in leadership within the educational landscape. Her contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous honors, including being named one of the top 50 Women Leaders in the state of Kansas for 2023.
Additionally, Dr. Mugridge was selected as a Classroom Teaching Ambassador Fellow with the U.S. Department of Education, highlighting her expertise and commitment to improving educational outcomes. She has also been recognized as a Kansas Teacher of the Year Region 3 Finalist and has received awards such as District Teacher of the Year, Outstanding Service Award from the NE Council for Exceptional Children, and the Presidential Community Service Award. Dr. Mugridge continues to inspire and lead through her dedication to excellence in education and her advocacy for women’s leadership in the field.
Learn more about viewing the live presentation and the recording, earning your CE certificate, and using our new accessibility features.
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The online special education programs at the University of Kansas help guide educators, professionals, and family members who support students with disabilities as they work to achieve their full potential. As leaders and advocates, these individuals must understand the unique strengths and needs of persons with disabilities. From assessment tools and inclusive teaching methods to adult transition strategies, the KU SOEHS Department of Special Education helps you build a solid foundation for students to flourish.
