ISBN: 978-1-964247-00-7
In this survey text, readers will explore the foundations of American education through a critical lens.
This work is also available freely online at https://doi.org/10.60865/t508-g921.
In this survey text, readers will explore the foundations of American education through a critical lens. Topics include the teaching profession, influences on student learning, philosophical and historical foundations, structures of schools, ethical and legal issues, curriculum, classroom environment, and the path forward.
Dr. Melissa Wells (B.A. and M.A., Furman University; Ph.D., University of South Carolina) is an associate professor in the College of Education at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, VA. Her teaching and research interests include literacy, arts integration, culturally responsive pedagogy, and family engagement. In 2024, she received the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV)’s Outstanding Faculty Award, which is the highest honor recognizing faculty in Virginia. Prior to becoming a professor, she taught in public schools in South Carolina, where she worked as a third-grade teacher, kindergarten teacher, and literacy coach.
Dr. Courtney Clayton serves as the Executive Director of Teaching and Learning for Florence 1 Schools in Florence, South Carolina. Dr. Clayton earned her Bachelor of Arts in French Literature from the University of Pennsylvania, followed by a Master of Arts in Education from the University of San Francisco's Graduate School of Education. She then obtained her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Boston College's Lynch School of Education.
Prior to her current role in the Florence 1 Schools, Dr. Clayton amassed extensive experience in the field of education. She served as the Dean of the School of Education at Francis Marion University. Before that, she was an associate professor and associate dean for Academic Progress, Assessment, and Accreditation at the University of Mary Washington's College of Education. Additionally, Dr. Clayton has held positions such as Chair of the Department of Language and Literacy and at the International School of Boston and teacher at various public and independent schools.