Dr. Lelah Kennedy
Glendale,AZ
Summary
Dynamic educator and instructional leader with over 30 years of experience in K-12 education, dedicated to equipping future teachers for the challenges of modern classrooms. Background as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and assistant principal supports deep expertise in curriculum design, data-informed instruction, MTSS implementation, and teacher evaluation. Recognized for mentoring novice and pre-service teachers, with a talent for integrating theory and practice through collaborative, standards-aligned instruction. Committed to cultivating inclusive learning environments and fostering strong partnerships with K-12 schools to develop reflective educators capable of meeting the diverse needs of all learners.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Assistant Principal- Teacher on Assignment
Paradise Valley Unified School District
01.2023 - Current
- Directed student discipline systems, tracking behavior trends and implementing restorative practices that improved school culture and reduced referrals.
- Evaluated and mentored teachers, providing feedback, coaching, and professional growth opportunities to elevate instructional excellence.
- Led schoolwide committees (Curriculum, MTSS, and School Safety), aligning initiatives with district goals and fostering collaborative decision-making.
- Coordinated school improvement efforts and monitored progress toward academic, behavioral, and organizational goals.
- Oversaw safety operations and daily school management, including emergency preparedness, supervision, scheduling, and student support.
- Strengthened family and community engagement, partnering with stakeholders to support student achievement, well-being, and positive behavioral outcomes.
- Trained teachers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
Instructional Coach
Paradise Valley Unified School District
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Mentored and coached teachers and teacher candidates, providing targeted professional development, instructional guidance, and reflective support to strengthen teaching practice.
- Coordinated and supervised practicum and student teaching experiences, guiding pre-service educators in classroom management, lesson planning, and standards-aligned instruction.
- Developed, aligned, and evaluated curriculum and instructional resources with Arizona Academic Standards to ensure rigor and consistency.
- Facilitated professional learning for teachers and adult learners in-person and virtually, focusing on effective instructional strategies, equity, and differentiated instruction.
- Analyzed student performance data to identify instructional needs, inform teaching practices, and guide actionable improvement plans in collaboration with teachers and teacher candidates.
- Built collaborative partnerships with colleagues, school leadership, families, and community stakeholders to support inclusive learning environments, student success, and a culture of belonging.
Instructional Coach
Lansing School District
01.2019 - 01.2021
- Mentored and coached teachers on effective instructional practices, delivering targeted professional development and ongoing support to strengthen classroom teaching.
- Developed and aligned curriculum resources with state standards and best practices to ensure consistency and instructional rigor across classrooms.
- Facilitated professional learning sessions on instructional strategies, equity, and curriculum implementation, fostering continuous teacher growth.
- Built collaborative partnerships with students, families, colleagues, and administrators to support a positive and inclusive school culture.
- Analyzed student achievement data to diagnose instructional needs, create action plans, and guide teachers in applying research-based strategies for improvement.
Aspiring Leader Program
Lansing School District
01.2018 - 01.2019
- Completed an intensive one-year leadership program through Michigan State University, the Educational Policy Fellowship Program (EPFP), the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA), and in-district leadership training.
- Conducted research on student success, parent involvement, and discipline to inform ongoing projects and school improvement initiatives.
- Collaborated with principals during school placements to gain hands-on experience in leadership, management, and decision-making.
- Led educational initiatives designed to enhance student engagement, achievement, and overall school climate.
- Co-authored a comprehensive principal handbook with program peers, synthesizing best practices for effective school leadership.
Teacher
Lansing School District and Union City Schools
1990 - 01.2018
- Delivered differentiated instruction in all subjects to meet diverse student needs, using assessments, small-group instruction, hands-on activities, and thematic units.
- Provided instructional leadership as grade-level lead, committee chair, and mentor to new teachers, contributing to curriculum development and teacher support at the district level.
- Built positive partnerships with families and maintained a safe, structured classroom environment, facilitating parent-teacher conferences and supporting student success.
Fifth Grade Teacher
Union City Community Schools
01.1990 - 01.1996
- Designed and implemented core instruction in mathematics, reading, and other subjects, creating lesson plans aligned to curriculum objectives while fostering educational and social development within a grade-level team.
- Built positive partnerships with families and maintained a safe, structured classroom environment, facilitating parent-teacher conferences and supporting student success.
Education
Ph.D. - Educational Leadership
Central Michigan University
Michigan08.2023
M.S. - Elementary Education
Walden University
Minnesota04.2010
B.S. - Education
Central Michigan University
Michigan05.1990
Associate of Arts - Education
Delta College
Michigan04.1987
Skills
- Educator Preparation & Adult Learning (In-Person, Hybrid, Online)
- Teacher Mentoring, Supervision & Instructional Coaching
- Practicum & Student Teaching Coordination
- Curriculum Design, Alignment & Assessment
- Data-Informed Instruction & Research-Based Assessment
- MTSS Implementation & Support for Diverse Learners
- Classroom Management & Student Behavior Supports
- Faculty Collaboration, Committee Service & Program Improvement
- School–College Partnerships & Community Engagement
- Inclusive Learning Environments & Student Success
Certification
Arizona Certification
6337410
Professional Principal PreK-12
Professional Superintendent PreK-12
Professional Elementary K-8
Approved Areas: Structures English Immersion PreK-12
202R02575
Level One Fingerprint Card AZ
Michigan Certification
CC-026880499224
Professional Teaching Certificate
Approved Areas: Elementary all subjects K-5 (self contained classroom K-8), Earth Science K-8, Mathematics K-8, and Sociology K-8.
SA-0000001141364
School Administrator Certificate
Timeline
Assistant Principal- Teacher on Assignment
Paradise Valley Unified School District
01.2023 - Current
Instructional Coach
Paradise Valley Unified School District
01.2021 - 01.2023
Instructional Coach
Lansing School District
01.2019 - 01.2021
Aspiring Leader Program
Lansing School District
01.2018 - 01.2019
Fifth Grade Teacher
Union City Community Schools
01.1990 - 01.1996
Teacher
Lansing School District and Union City Schools
1990 - 01.2018
Ph.D. - Educational Leadership
Central Michigan University
M.S. - Elementary Education
Walden University
B.S. - Education
Central Michigan University
Associate of Arts - Education
Delta College