I believe deeply in the importance of empowering teachers to be agents of positive change for all students. Knowles is building a national network of phenomenal teachers dedicated to this vital work, and I feel privileged to be a part of it.”

Carolyn’s Story

Carolyn began her career teaching high school English in New Jersey. She also taught writing to undergraduate students at Rutgers University for 10 years and high school students through  the Rutgers Educational Opportunity Fund Program and the Rutgers Future Scholars Program. Most recently, Carolyn worked as an instructional coach for a public school district in New Jersey. In this role, she supported high school teachers across subject areas through informal observation, collaborative coaching, co-teaching, and facilitating teacher learning groups.

Throughout her career, Carolyn has acquired expertise in writing curriculum; developing and conducting professional development programs; and building strong, collaborative relationships that act as the foundation for meaningful, positive change in schools. Her doctoral research focused on informal teacher leaders, or teachers who lead from the classroom, affording her the opportunity to learn about the work and perspectives of a wide range of informal teacher leaders and consider the powerful role that teacher leaders play in serving all students.

Carolyn has presented at the National Council of Teachers of English National Convention on topics including building professional learning communities and supporting reflective practitioners through teacher work groups. Additionally, she participated in an American Educational Research Association roundtable session entitled, “Teacher Leaders [Re]imagining Professional Learning Opportunities.” Her most recent publication is “Informal Teacher Leadership: Reculturing schools and the profession,” published in The Power of Teacher Leaders: Their Roles, Influence, and Impact edited by Nathan Bond.

Carolyn holds a B.A. in English, an Ed.M. in English language arts, and an Ed.D. in teacher leadership from Rutgers University. 

She resides in Highland Lakes, New Jersey, with her husband and two sons. In her spare time, Carolyn enjoys reading, and running while listening to podcasts.

Email address: carolyn.ross@knowlesteachers.org

Curriculum Vitae

Presentations