Kathleen Castillo-Clark (she/her) is Senior Program Director at Deans for Impact. Prior to joining, DFI Kathleen served as the Elementary Education Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Education at Campbell University. Kathleen holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education & Romance Languages from The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, a master's degree in Education-Language & Literacy from Harvard Graduate School of Education and a doctorate in Education, Curriculum & Instruction from Loyola University Chicago. In addition ,she is a National Board Certified educator and serves on The North Carolina Reading League board. Kathleen lives in Chapel Hill, NC with her husband and two daughters.
Why did you start working in education?
My passion for education was ignited in kindergarten, spending countless hours playing school and giving homework to my stuffed animals. I've carried this passion throughout my career as an elementary school teacher and teacher educator. My dedication to education stems from a profound love and commitment for nurturing the next generation of educators and ensuring that all students have access to equitable learning experiences.
Describe a teacher or student who made a lasting impact in your life.
My middle school math teacher made a lasting impact on my life and my career as an educator. She treated all students equitably and fostered an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Her teaching style influenced the type of teacher I wanted to become.
What's a principle, philosophy, or quote you live by, and why?
Maya Angelou — "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better" I love this quote because it's a great reminder that there's always room for new learning and it's important to focus on forward progress.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love traveling with my family and getting to expose my daughters to new places and cultures.