Jo’s early elementary programs are supported, in part, by a partnership with the College of Education and Leadership at Cardinal Stritch University, which has a reputation in Wisconsin for excellence in teacher development, leadership development, literacy and language development, and civic engagement. The objectives of the partnership are to:

1) support the professional development of teachers at JO’s Learning Academy in order to provide high-quality educational experiences for its children.

2) create a place where teacher candidates from Cardinal Stritch University can observe the development of young children and provide meaningful teaching experiences for them.

3) educate all children to high levels through knowing, valuing and using their rich cultural backgrounds, languages and learning styles within the context of the classroom environment.

Students and faculty from Cardinal Stritch University have opportunities to be engaged at Jo’s Learning Academy through undergraduate coursework (RLA 307: Early Childhood Language, Learning and Literacy & RLA 312: Middle Childhood Language, Literacy and Learning) observations, volunteer opportunities and student teaching experiences.

CARDINAL STRITCH FACULTY PARTNERS

Dr. Aaliyah Baker has over 15 years of K12 experience and teaches undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral courses in the College of Education and Leadership at Cardinal Stritch University. She maintains a strong partnership with Jo’s Learning Academy by developing and supporting curriculum, assessment and instruction in primary grades.  Her research interests include Multicultural Education and Critical Theory. To provide leadership and be of service, Dr. Baker facilitates professional development trainings for the teachers at Jo’s Learning Academy, supports students’ academic success, participates in the planning and preparation of a standards-based curriculum and manages effective instructional techniques through research-based models of coaching.

Dr. Heather Pauly is an assistant professor in the College of Education and Leadership at Cardinal Stritch University, teaching undergraduate and graduate literacy and special education courses.  Dr. Pauly is a licensed speech-language pathologist and Reading Specialist with K12 experience in both positions. Dr. Pauly maintains a partnership with Jo’s Learning Academy by developing and supporting student interventions related to literacy. Her research interests include early language and literacy development and English Language Learners.