LaTasha Jones Adams, Ph.D.
1802 North Umberland Way
Atlanta, GA 30316
770.317.1721
[email protected]
EDUCATION
April 2013
Non-profit Management Certificate, Kennesaw State University, Atlanta, GA.
May 2007
Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction, University of North Carolina at
Charlotte. Professional specialization: Urban Education. Research Interests: race, class, gender in
education; equity in education; qualitative narrative research. Dissertation: White Male
Secondary Science Teachers, African American Urban Students, and Culturally Responsive
Pedagogy Chair: Dr. David Pugalee.
May 2003
Master of Education, Education, Cambridge College, Boston, MA. Professional specialization:
National Institute for Teaching Excellence. Master’s Thesis: The Role of Mentors on African
American, Urban, Middle Schools Girls.
May 2000
Bachelor of Arts, English/Religion, Spelman College, Atlanta, GA. Cum laude, Class officer.
COLLEGE TEACHING EXPERIENCE
September 2014-present
Online Adjunct Professor
Concordia University-Portland
Currently teach graduate level Education classes: Thesis and Theories of Teaching and
Learning
August 2012-July 2014
Clinical Assistant Professor/MSTT Coordinator/M.A.T. Math/Science Middle Level
Coordinator
Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
Literacy in the Content Areas
In this graduate course for future middle school math/science teachers, students examine reading
and writing strategies an d materials in the content area classroom. Emphases are on adolescent
literacy development, the process of reading and writing in the middle and secondary schools,
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 1
the role of textbooks and trade books, concept development, comprehension, vocabulary, and
study strategies.
Organization in Middle Schools
Grounded in culturally relevant pedagogy, this course will introduce and examine the
major programmatic and organizational features of middle schools as they relate to the
educational needs of middle level students, particularly those in urban contexts. The
course interactions and engagements are organized around three major themes: (a)
diverse contexts of teaching and learning, (b) structure of middle level education, and
(c) middle level teaching, learning, and professionalism.
Supervision in Middle Grades Teaching
This course allows graduate and undergraduate students the opportunity to observe and teach in
middle grades classrooms and receive substantial feedback from mentor teachers and university
supervisors. University supervisors serve as liaisons between the student, K-12 public school and
the university.
August 2010-July 2011
Assistant Professor/ Middle Grades Coordinator
Albany State University, Albany, GA
Classroom Management
This course is designed to develop competency in conflict resolution/anger management for the
classroom teacher. The content of this course will focus on peace education and will empower
educators to alleviate school violence by helping children to develop problem solving skills.
Activities will emphasize effective group and individual strategies for communicating behavorial
expectations and limits to students, providing a positive classroom climate, fostering appropriate
student behaviors and discouraging inappropriate behaviors and discouraging inappropriate
student behaviors.
Intro to Theory and Pedagogy (for Reading)
This course is designed to provide an overview of foundational knowledge for reading
instruction and practical, technological and theoretical information about the reading and writing
processes needed to instruct diverse populations are covered. Current research in the field of
reading education is included to equip the teacher with a balanced perspective.
Language Arts in the Middle Grades
This course is designed to give prospective teachers of middle grade students the knowledge and
skills necessary to assist youth in becoming efficient in their use of the six linguistic skills of
listening, speaking, reading writing, viewing (visually representing), and illustrating for the
overall purpose of effective communication in our culturally diverse society. This in turn will
ensure wise decision-making and responsible citizenship in our democratic society. As such, the
course is an integrated overview of the principles, practices, and materials used in teaching
language arts for verbal, non-verbal and written communication. Additionally, it offers
prospective teachers the opportunity to assist certified teachers in the public schools.
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 2
August 2008-May 2010
Assistant Professor
Valdosta State University, Valdosta, GA
Courses Taught:
Apprenticeship in Middle Grades Teaching
This course allows students the opportunity to teach in middle grades classrooms and receive
substantial feedback from mentor teachers and university supervisors. University supervisors
serve as liaisons between the student, K-12 public school and the university.
Critical and Contemporary Issues in Education
This course uses observations, interactions, and analyses of critical and contemporary
educational issues. Students will investigate issues influencing the social and political contexts
of educational settings in Georgia and the United States. Students will actively examine the
teaching profession from multiple vantage points both within and outside the school. Against
this backdrop, students will reflect on and interpret the meaning of education and schooling in a
diverse culture and examine the moral and ethical responsibilities of teaching in a democracy.
Developing and Leading a Community of Diverse Learners
This specialist-level, graduate course is an examination of the impact of cultural, multicultural,
diversity, and exceptionality issues on adults’ and children’s relationships, communication, and
educational practices in American schools. Appropriate verbal and nonverbal communication
techniques are addressed.
Development and Education of the Middle Grades Student
This course is a study of the curriculum needs of middle grades students. Emphasis is on
curriculum as it relates to the unique transitional needs of middle grades students with a focus on
classroom management and assessment techniques.
Differentiated Instruction
This course examines the study of how differentiating content, process, products, and assessment can
impact student achievement of diverse populations. Emphasis is on developing the knowledge and
skills to design a differentiated classroom and the ability to articulate the rationale and results of its
implementation.
January 2007- May 2007
Lecturer
University of North Carolina, Charlotte, NC
Course Taught:
Intensive Orientation to Teaching
Graduate course included an introduction to major instructional, organizational, management,
and assessment approaches within a school setting. An examination of modern day contexts,
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 3
issues, and problems of schools related to educational foundations and philosophy was woven
into classroom discussions and assignments. In-service first year teachers presented case studies
and issues with teaching and receive concrete strategies to increase teacher effectiveness and
student achievement in classroom management, instructional methods, teaching exceptional
students, and integrating technology. The class was conducted ¾ of the time via the Internet and
included many aspects of technology in teaching.
January 2005- December 2006
Teaching Assistant
University of North Carolina, Charlotte, NC
Courses Taught:
Adolescent Learners
Undergraduate course included characteristics of the adolescent learner, including the impact on
the classroom of physical, social, cognitive, moral, vocational, and affective developmental
factors and multicultural issues. Field-based activities included observation and tutoring in
school and non-school settings. Direct responsibilities: planning course, teaching sessions, and
assessing student work.
Leadership, Service, and Ethics
Undergraduate course that focused on leadership issues facing our society, the role of values and
ethics in leadership, and servant leadership. An in-depth examination of ethical leadership
theories is also delivered. Direct responsibilities: teaching sessions and assessing student work.
Teaching Diverse Learners
Graduate course included strategies for adapting instruction to meet the learning needs of all
members of middle or secondary classrooms, including students at risk for school failure,
individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, gifted students and students
with disabilities. The students in the class also were required to participate in extensive clinical
experiences. Direct responsibilities: planning course, teaching sessions, and assessing student
work.
RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
Teacher Effectiveness Grant. Albany State University. Albany, GA. Conducted
qualitative/quantitative research on teacher effectiveness within the Dougherty County Schools.
Provide professional development for teachers within K-12 schools. August 2010- July 2011.
Behavior and Reading Improvement Center, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, NC. (Dr.
Bob Algozzine and Nancy Cooke PIs).Implemented and evaluated Positive Behavior
Intervention Support and into seven Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Provided professional
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 4
development for reading strategies and behavior instruction methods. Collected, inputted, and
analyzed data as part of a national research grant. August 2004-May 2006.
Early Reading First Program, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, NC. ( Dr. Bob Algozzine,
PI). Created an effective program for collecting data. Collected data of control and treatment
groups. Organized data into functional information. Researched best practices for teaching early
reading strategies to minorities. April 2004-August 2004.
Schools and Culture of Europe Study Abroad Program, University of North Carolina, Charlotte,
NC. (Dr. Corey Locke, PI). Researched differences and similarities among urban schools and
urban school systems in the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, and made comparisons with
schools in the United States. Observed and reviewed information about instructional
methodology taught in teacher preparation programs. June 2004.
Ronald E. McNair Research Program. University of Rochester, Rochester, NY. Conducted
scholarly research with David Hursh, PhD in an intensive summer research program for first
generation or minority college students. Published Abstract: Deficit or Difference: The Family’s
Role in Educating Black Children. Collaborated with other scholars in the Education field and
presented research at various conferences including the Penn State McNair Conference. Summer
1999.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Dominion Education Consulting, Atlanta, GA. Founder/Educational Consultant. Create
educational plans for low income, first-generation prospective college students. Edit college
essays, theses, and dissertations. Assist in solidifying dissertation topics, IRB, writing, and
defense. Create and present workshops for various educational groups. May 2007-present.
Teach For America Summer Institute. School Director. Managed the instructional, fiscal,
operational, and communal affairs of an urban high school with a diverse population. Supported
staff towards ambitious student achievement goals. Served as the lead instructor through created
and presenting professional development and evaluating/coaching teachers. Collaborated with
the Atlanta Public Schools. February 2012- July 2012.
Ivy Preparatory Academy at Kirkwood for Girls, Atlanta, GA. Founding Principal. . Managed
the instructional, fiscal, operational, and communal affairs of an urban elementary and middle
charter school with a diverse population. Supported staff towards ambitious student achievement
goals. Served as the lead instructor through created and presenting professional development and
evaluating/coaching teachers. Collaborated with the Georgia Charter School Association. August
2011-December 2011.
Teach For America Summer Institute, Phoenix, AZ. Curriculum Coordinator. Conducted
evaluations as member of the Institute Management Team. Trained curriculum and literacy
specialists who trained new teachers in an intensive teacher education program. Evaluated
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 5
curriculum and literacy sessions and provided next steps for data-driven success. May 2009- July
2009.
Reach For Excellence, Atlanta, GA. Educator. Created a gifted curriculum for advanced middle
school children. Taught Advanced Placement reading, writing, and critical thinking strategies.
June 2207-July 2007; August 2003-June 2004.
Teach For America Summer Institute, Atlanta, GA. Curriculum Specialist. Delivered
curriculum sessions to 100 corps members to ensure they internalize key knowledge, skills, and
mindsets of effective teachers. Collaborated with a school leadership team to make data driven
decisions concerning core member achievement. May 2006-July 2006.
Teach For America, Atlanta, GA. Alumni Recruiter. Designed a creative program for recruiting
Spelman College students to Teach for America. Increased team morale via positive work
environment and team building skills. Implemented strategies planned by director. Identified
targeted students to recruit and train. Presented Teach For America’s mission in various formats.
August 2003- June 2004.
Atlanta Public Schools, Atlanta, GA. Educator. Taught reading, Language Arts, and math/prealgebra to 6th –8th graders. 100% of eighth grade homeroom passed state standardized test. 97%
of eighth grade students passed the state writing test. August 2000- June 2004.
PRESENTATIONS
Jones, L. (2014). Organization in the Middle Grades. Curriculum Studies Summer Collaborative
Conference. Savannah, GA.
Jones, L. (2014). Tomorrow Matters Today: Training Math and Science Teachers for Sustainable
Student Achievement. San Antonio International Academic Conference. San Antonio, TX.
Jones, L. (2013). What is the purpose of middle school? Georgia Educational Research
Association. Savannah, GA.
Jones, L. (2013). Tomorrow matters today: Training math and science teachers for sustainable
student achievement. Georgia Association of Teacher Educators. Jekyll Island, GA.
Williamson, A. and Jones, L. (2013). Encouraging multicultural and a culturally responsive
curriculum. 7th International Technology, Education and Development Conference. Valencia,
Spain.
Williamson, A. and Jones, L. (2013). Multicultural education: Suggestions for implementation
and school transformation. Athens Institute for Education and Research. Athens, Greece.
Mungin, R. and Jones, L. (2012). The Achievement and interest of middle school minority
females in science. Georgia Educational Research Association. Savannah, GA.
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 6
Mungin, R. and Jones, L. (2012). Making a difference in middle grades science education: The
Achievement and interest of minority females. Georgia Association of Teacher Educators,
Atlanta, GA.
Jones, P. and Jones, L. (2011). Socialized Mathematics Instruction and Academic Performance
in Adolescent African American Boys. Association for Middle Level Education. Louisville, KY.
Jones, L. and Rainey, P. (2011). Examining the “Academic Imagination” between Black Male
and Female Students: Contributing Factors to the Achievement Gap. American Educational
Research Association. New Orleans, LA.
Jones, L. (2010). Dispelling the Myth: Realities in Incorporating Online Reading and Writing
Strategies Into Teacher Education Programs. Teacher Workshop Presented. Georgia Association
of Teacher Educators. Atlanta, GA.
Jones, L. (2010). Mentors Learning from the Middle and Making a Difference. Paper Presented.
National Middle School Association. Baltimore, MD.
Jones, L. (2009). Culturally responsive mentors lighting the path for teachers. Paper Presented.
Association for Teacher Educators. Dallas, TX.
Jones, L. (2009). Culture Connection: Memoirs of a Mentor. Paper Presented. American
Educational Research Association. San Diego, CA.
Jones, L. (2009). Let the Circle be Unbroken: Tale of a Teacher Mentor. Paper Presented.
American Educational Research Association. San Diego, CA.
Jones, L. (2009). Preparing Educators to Teach and Assess Creativity. Paper Presented. Georgia
Association of Teacher Educators. Jekyll Island, GA.
Jones, L. (2009). Towards Zion: Race, Class, Gender, and Mentoring Middle School Girls. Paper
Presented. Georgia Educational Research Association. Savannah, GA.
Jones, L. & Barlett, E. (2009). Motivation 101: Strategies for Motivating Elementary and Middle
School Students. Workshop Presented. Teach for America Summer Institute. Phoenix, AZ.
Jones, L. (2008). The Caged bird sings: Reflections and research on white identity development
and culturally responsive teaching. Paper Presented. Georgia Educational Research Association
Annual Meeting. Savannah, GA.
Jones, L. (2008). Culture in the Mix: Tips for Incorporating Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
into Teacher Education Programs. Workshop Presented. Georgia Association of Teacher
Educators Annual Conference. Atlanta, GA.
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Jones, L. (2008). A charge to keep: A Tale of African American professional women mentoring
middle school girls. Paper Presented. Georgia Educational Research Association Annual
Meeting. Savannah, GA.
Jones, L. (2008). We are family: White teachers teaching in African American communities.
Paper Presented. American Educational Research Association. Chicago, Il.
Jones, L. (2007). Graduate School Panel Discussion. The University of North Carolina McNair
Graduate Fair. Charlotte, NC.
Jones, L. (2007). Through Privileged Eyes: Culturally Responsive Pedagogy. Paper Presented.
The University of North Carolina Graduate and Professional Student Government Research Fair.
Charlotte, NC
Jones, L. (2007). Ain’t Power Trippin’: Empowering Urban Students through Culturally
Responsive Pedagogy. Paper Presented. Curriculum and Instruction Graduate Student
Professional Association Research Conference. Charlotte, NC.
Jones, L. (2006). The world of ERUTAN. Panel Discussion. The University of North Carolina
Multicultural Conference. Charlotte, NC.
Jones, L. (2006). Ready, Set, Motivate: Motivating Students to Achieve. Workshop Presented.
Teach For America Summer Institute. Atlanta, GA.
Jones, L. (2006). Educating Homeless Students. Paper Presented. Curriculum and Instruction
Graduate Student Professional Association Research Conference. Charlotte, NC.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS FOR K-12 TEACHERS
Jones, L. (2014). What Principal’s Want. MSTT New Teacher Panel. DeKalb County Schools.
Jones, L. & Fountain, K. (2013). Classroom Management for New Teachers. MSTT Program,
DeKalb County Schools.
Jones, L. & Fountain, K. (2013). Effective Lesson Planning for New Teachers. MSTT Program,
DeKalb County Schools.
Jones, L. & Fountain, K. (2013). Technology in the Classroom for Middle School Teachers.
MSTT Program, DeKalb County Schools.
Jones, L. (2012). Behavioral Expectations, Classroom Culture, and Diversity. Douglass High
School. Atlanta, GA.
Jones, L. (2012). Establishing Vision and Goals. Douglass High School. Atlanta, GA.
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 8
Jones, L. (2012). Story of Self, Us, and Now. Douglass High School. Atlanta, GA.
Jones, L. (2012). Working Together: Partners and Professionals. Douglass High School.
Atlanta, GA.
Jones, L. (2011). Analyzing Student Data. Ivy Prep Academy, Atlanta, GA.
Jones, L. (2011). Culturally Responsive Teaching. Ivy Prep Academy, Atlanta, GA.
Jones, L. (2011). Lesson Planning for Student Achievement. Ivy Prep Academy, Atlanta, GA.
Jones, L. (2011). Teacher Evaluations. Ivy Prep Academy, Atlanta, GA.
Jones, L. (2011). A Beach Basket Full of Alternative Assessments. Fulton County Schools, East
Point, GA.
Jones, L. (2010). Culturally Responsive Teaching and Tri-Cities High School I. Fulton County
Schools. East Point, GA.
Jones, L. (2010). Culturally Responsive Teaching and Tri-Cities High School II. Fulton County
Schools. East Point, GA.
Jones, L. & Barlett, E. (2009). Motivation 101: Strategies for Motivating Elementary and Middle
School Students. Teach for America Summer Institute. Phoenix, AZ.
Jones, L. (2006). The world of ERUTAN. The University of North Carolina Multicultural
Conference. Charlotte, NC.
Jones, L. (2006). Ready, Set, Motivate: Motivating Students to Achieve. Teach For America
Summer Institute. Atlanta, GA.
Jones, L. (2005). Achievement and Diverse Students: A Semester Long Professional
Development. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Charlotte, NC.
INVITED TALKS
Jones, L. et al. (2014). No Bullying Panel. Therrell High School. Atlanta, GA.
Jones, L. (2014). Education, Purpose, and Impact. Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business
Fraternity, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Ga.
Jones, L. (2014). Finding Your Purpose. New Year, New You Conference. Atlanta, GA.
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 9
Jones, L. (2013). ALIVE in 2013. Eastern Star Convention. Covington, GA.
Jones, L. (2013). I won’t give up on us. Spring of Life Couple’s Ministry. Smyrna, GA.
Jones, L. (2013). Literacy, Learning, & Leading: Education for a 21st Century World. Sixth
Annual Georgia College Citizenship Symposium. Milledgeville, GA.
Jones, L. (2012). Benie Newroth. “You Grow Girl” Leadership Institute. Columbus, GA.
Jones, L. (2011). Why You? Why Leader? Bennie Newroth “You Grow Girl” Leadership
Institute. Columbus, GA.
Jones, L. (2010). Live the Dream- Successful Paths to a Graduate Degree. University of
Rochester. Rochester, NY.
Jones, L. (2010). Our children, our youth, our movement. Invited Educational Panelist. Teen
New Age Movement. Albany, GA.
Jones, L. (2010). Mathematicians and Scientists who are African American. Valdosta Early
College Program. Valdosta, GA
Jones, L. (2009). African Americans in Science and Math. Valdosta Early College Program.
Valdosta, GA.
Jones, L. (2007). Graduate School Panel Discussion. The University of North Carolina McNair
Graduate Fair. Charlotte, NC.
PUBLICATIONS
Jones, L. (2014). Tomorrow Matters Today: Training Math and Science Teachers for Sustainable
Student Achievement. Published in conference proceedings for the 2014 San Antonio
International Academic Conference Publications. San Antonio, TX. ISBN: 1539-8757
Jones, L. (2013, Submitted.). Using Common Core to teach literacy in the math and science
classroom. Journal of Teaching Effectiveness and Student Achievement.
Jones, L. and Fountain, K. (2013, Submitted). Tomorrow Matters Today: Training Math and
Science Teachers for Sustainable Student Achievement. Journal of Teaching Effectiveness and
Student Achievement.
Williamson, A. and Jones, L. (2013). Multicultural education: Suggestions for implementation
and school transformation. Published by the Athens Institute for Education and Research.
Athens, Greece. http://www.atiner.gr/papers/EDUC2013-0461.pdf
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 10
Williamson, A. and Jones, L. (2013). Encouraging multicultural and a culturally responsive
curriculum. 7th Published in conference proceedings for the 7th International Technology,
Education and Development Conference Publications. Valencia, Spain. ISBN: 978-84-616-26618/ ISSN:2340-107
Lupinski, K, Jenkins, P, Beard, A, & Jones, L. (2012). “ Reflective Practice in Teacher
Education at a Historically Black University.” Journal of Educational Foundations Studies.
Jones, L. (2010, Submitted). “The Caged birds sing: Reflections and research on white identity
development and culturally responsive teaching.” Georgia Educational Research Journal.
Williamson, A. and Jones, L. (2010, Submitted). Developing multicultural education toolkits:
Necessary tool for creating schools that focus on diversity. Administrative Issues Journal.
Williamson, A, Jones, L. and Talbert, T. (2010). Encouraging multicultural education and a
culturally responsive curriculum. Chapter proposal submitted for American Education Research
Association.
Jones, L. (2009). “Experiencing the Minority: Overcoming Double Consciousness in the
Classroom.” In Charles Hutchison (Ed.) Book What Happens When Students are in the Minority:
Experiences that Impact Human Performance. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield Education.
Jones, L. (2005). “Book Review for A Vision for girls: Gender, education, and the Bryn Mawr
School.” In Educational Review On Line. http://edrev.asu.edu/reviews/rev351.htm
Mickelson, R. & Jones, L. (2007). “Gender and Tracking.” In Barbara J. Bank (Ed.) Gender and
Education: An Encyclopedia. New York: Greenwood Press.
GRANTS
Faculty Development Grant. (2010, Funded). Valdosta State University.
Quality Enhancement Grant (2009, Not funded). Georgia Department of Education.
Early Scholars Grant. (2009, Funded). American Educational Research Association.
Faculty Development Grant. (2009, Funded). Valdosta State University.
Faculty Development Grant. (2008, Funded). Valdosta State University.
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 11
SERVICE TO THE PROFESSION
Jones, L. (2014-present). Provost Charter School Academy, Executive Board Member.
Jones, L. (2014-present). Conference Proposal Reviewer, Georgia Educational Research
Association.
Jones, L. (2014-present). College Representative, Executive Board, Georgia Association of
Teacher Educators.
Jones, L. (2013-present). Field Test Expert for Doctoral Studies.
Jones, L. (2013-present). Member-at-Large, Executive Board. Georgia Educational Research
Association.
Jones, L. (2013-present). Journal Reviewer. Journal of Teaching Effectiveness and Student
Achievement. Nation-wide.
Jones, L. (2012-present). The Collective Board Member. Teach for America-Atlanta.
Jones, L. (2012-present). Alumni Advisory Board Member. Teach for America-Atlanta.
Jones, L. (2012-present). Journal Reviewer. Journal of Science Education and Technology.
Nation-wide.
Jones, L. (2011-present). Program Reviewer. AMLE/NCATE Middle Level Programs. Nationwide.
Jones, L. (2012-2014). Professional Education Faculty. Georgia State University.
Jones, L. (2012-2013). South Africa COE Special Interest Group. Georgia State University.
Jones, L. (October 2010-July 2011). Member. NCATE Review Team. College/Albany State
University.
Jones, L. (August 2010-July 2011). Member. Graduate Council Faculty. University/ Albany
State University.
Jones, L. (August 2010-July 2011). Member. Research Committee. College/ Albany State
University.
Jones, L. (October 2009-May 2010). Member. National Middle School Association
Accreditation Committee. Departmental/ Valdosta State University.
Jones, L. (September 2009-May 2010). Member. Research Committee College/ Valdosta State
University.
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 12
Jones, L. (March 2009). Middle School Coordinator. Azalea International Folk Festival
Community/Departmental/ Valdosta State University.
Jones, L. (January 2009- May 2010). Member. Curriculum Alignment Committee. Departmental/
Valdosta State University.
Jones, L. (September 2008 – May 2010). Member. Diversity Committee. University/ Valdosta
State University.
Jones, L. (September 2008 – May 2010). Advisor. Student Professional Association of Georgia
Educators (SPAGE). Departmental/College/ Valdosta State University
Jones, L. (August 2008- May 2010). Member. Early College Committee. Departmental/College/
Valdosta State University.
Jones, L. (August 2008 – May 2010). Member. HUB Committee. University/ Valdosta State
University.
Jones, L. (August 2008). Proposal Reviewer. Special Interest Groups: Narrative, Middle Level,
Mentoring. American Educational Research Association.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Atlanta Public Schools, College and Career Motivation Volunteer
14th Street Playhouse Volunteer
Do Something Saturday Volunteer
Greater Travelers Rest Marriage Education Ministry Volunteer
KIPP Atlanta Basketball Championship Volunteer
McNair Scholars
S.E.E. Educational Volunteer
Word of Faith Youth Ministry Volunteer
Word of Faith Single’s Ministry Volunteer
Uni-Health Post-Acute Care of Decatur Volunteer
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIPS
American Educational Research Association
Association of Teacher Educators
Georgia Association for Educational Research
Georgia Association of Educators
Georgia Association of Teacher Educators
National Association of Educators
National Middle School Association
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 13
HONORS AND AWARDS
Phi Delta Kappa, Inc. Alpha Epsilon Chapter, Membership, 2014
American Educational Research Association Early Scholars Award, 2009.
University of North Carolina-Charlotte, Graduate School Research Award, 2007.
University of North Carolina-Charlotte, Kappa Delta Pi Membership, 2006.
University of North Carolina-Charlotte, Phi Beta Delta Membership, 2005.
University of North Carolina-Charlotte, Phi Kappa Phi Membership, 2005.
REFERENCES
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 14
November 24, 2014
Concordia University-Portland
RE: Recommendation Letter for Dr. Latasha Jones–Adams
Dear Search Committee Members:
Please accept this letter of recommendation for Dr. Latasha Jones–Adams. During the time I
have known her I have observed her work in partnership with coaches, administrations and
principals to prepare prospective teachers for the DeKalb County School System. She works with
future educators who are a part of the Math and Science Transition to Teaching (MSTT)
Program. This program prepares students who are finishing undergraduate and graduate level
courses in the Department of Middle and Secondary Education at Georgia State University for
teacher certification for grades four through eight in mathematics and science.
I was very impressed with the experience and support Dr. Jones–Adams provides to the MSTT
program. She utilizes the concepts and materials of this program to ensure our cohort members
receive a variety of instructional strategies as secondary math and science instructors. She has
particularly demonstrated expertise in the use of content literacy approaches to improve student
achievement in mathematics and science. The material she presents is extensive and
challenging. She is very supportive and perceptive when interacting with cohort members. Dr.
Jones–Adams has been successful at the secondary and post-secondary levels of education
because of her knowledge and leadership abilities in working with various groups of people.
Her critical thinking skills are evident as she manages challenges we encounter during team
meetings. She always has suggestions that demonstrate global awareness and the ability to
provide solutions that best meets the needs of our students, teachers and stakeholders. An
example of this was when we tackled how to provide professional learning opportunities for our
MSTT participants. Dr. Jones–Adams suggested face-to- face and online training courses for our
cohort members that include topics as classroom management, implementing effective lesson
plans, and differentiated instruction.
In addition to the support Dr. Jones–Adams has provided to the Math and Science Transition to
Teaching project, we developed proposals for educational conferences and journal publications
pertaining to our program. She submitted an article to be published in Journal of Teaching
Effectiveness and Student Achievement and presented our work at the Georgia Association of
Teacher Educators conference in October 2013. I appreciate the ideas that Dr. Jones–Adams
introduced as they increased my knowledge as well.
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 15
I highly recommend Dr. Latasha Jones–Adams as a member of your team. Her ability to work
with various groups, application of critical thinking skills, innovation and drive will certainly be
an asset for your program. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
Kristie A. Fountain
Kristie A. Fountain, M. Ed.
Math & Science Transition to Teaching (MSTT) Coach/Professional Learning Facilitator
Department of Professional Learning
DeKalb County School District
[email protected]
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 16
November 21, 2014
Concordia University
To Whom it May Concern:
It is a privilege for me to recommend Dr. Latasha Jones Adams as an Online Professor for
Concordia University. I have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Jones as her former colleague
at Valdosta State University. She and I collaborated on the online courses we were teaching, and
continue our collaborative partnership through presentations and publications. As a former
middle school teacher and employee of Teach for America, as well as through her scholarly
endeavors and service as a school principal, Latasha is no stranger to the field of teaching or
leadership. Her accomplishments speak for themselves. Dr. Jones has the work ethic, desire to
assist diverse populations, and passion to teach that will make her a valuable asset to our team.
Latasha’s philosophy of education is evident upon entering the classroom. Her class is always
student-centered and provides practical knowledge for her students and visual accompaniment to
the lesson’s content. It is her belief that education students and leadership candidates must be
prepared for the diversity and challenges they may face in the classroom, as well armed with a
plethora of strategies that will help guide their students to academic success.
I believe that Dr. Jones Adams would be a promising addition to your faculty and would
successfully guide students in the courses to which she is assigned. Please feel free to contact
me, should you have additional questions.
Sincerely,
Amy M. Williamson, Ed.D.
Associate Professor
Department of Curriculum and Instruction
Angelo State University
(325) 486-6777
[email protected]
Application for Dr. LaTasha Jones Adams 17
DIONNE V. COWAN
November 28, 2014
Concordia University-Portland
Greetings,
It is with great excitement that I submit this letter of recommendation for Dr. LaTasha
Jones Adams for the Online Professor position. I was honored to work with Dr. Jones Adams
while she served as Principal of Ivy Prep Academy at Kirkwood for Girls while I served as
Principal of Ivy Prep Academy at Kirkwood for Boys. We shared a building together as
Founding Principals.
Dr. Jones Adams delivered high quality professional development for both her school and
my school. I gleaned knowledge from her as she provided detailed support for her staff in the
form of detailed feedback on their lesson plans; instructional coaching, and modeling of
language arts lessons. I have always known Dr. Jones Adams to be professional and operate
with an admirable degree of integrity and excellence. If I were ever afforded the opportunity to
work with her again, I would be honored to do so. I believe that Dr. Jones Adams is an asset to
every organization she serves.
In addition to being a strong educational leader, Dr. Jones Adams is a take-charge, strategic
individual who is able to present creative ideas and communicate the benefits effectively. Her
love for children and ensuring high academic outcomes for the students entrusted in her care was
always evident. She was instrumental in opening Ivy Prep Academy at Kirkwood for Girls in 30
days after a historical State Board Approval in Georgia. She is a team player, and I highly
recommend her for the position of Online Professor at Concordia University.
Please feel free to contact me, via phone at 770-401-4406 or via e-mail at
[email protected] if needed.
Sincerely,
Dionne Cowan 2195 LANDING WALK DRIVE • DULUTH, GA • 30097
PHONE: 770-401-4406
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