Steven D. Harrison, Ed.D
Durham
Summary
Strategic education leader with more than 20 years of experience leading K–12 curriculum, instruction, school improvement, and educational innovation across public, private, nonprofit, and higher education settings. Proven success designing data-driven instructional systems, leading district-wide initiatives, developing high-impact professional learning, and expanding educational access through strategic partnerships. Recognized for building collaborative teams, driving measurable results, and creating standards-aligned programs that improve teaching, learning, and student achievement.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
2
2
Certification
Work History
Founder
Greater Promise Elite Learning
Durham, NC
04.2015 - Current
- Founded and lead a multi-service educational consulting firm providing curriculum, instructional, and academic support solutions to students, families, schools, and organizations.
- Direct organizational strategy, business operations, financial management, talent recruitment, and long-term growth initiatives.
- Design and oversee curriculum development, academic intervention programs, SAT/ACT preparation, educator professional learning, and school improvement services.
- Build strategic partnerships with public, charter, private, and homeschool organizations to expand educational access and improve student outcomes.
- Lead a multidisciplinary team of educators and consultants while ensuring high-quality instructional delivery and exceptional client satisfaction.
- Develop innovative educational programs that integrate research-based instructional practices, assessment data, and technology to improve teaching and learning.
Co-Founder/President
Donald Deneil Harrison Scholarship Foundation
Durham, NC
01.2006 - Current
- Co-founded and lead a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to higher education through scholarships, mentorship, and community engagement.
- Provide executive leadership for organizational strategy, board governance, fundraising, financial stewardship, and long-term sustainability.
- Cultivate strategic partnerships with businesses, community organizations, educational institutions, and philanthropic stakeholders to increase organizational impact.
- Direct scholarship selection processes, leadership development initiatives, and mentoring programs that support first-generation and underserved students.
- Lead marketing, community outreach, and donor engagement efforts to strengthen visibility, increase financial support, and advance the foundation's mission.
- Oversee annual fundraising campaigns, community events, and operational planning while ensuring alignment with organizational goals and community needs.
District Curriculum Specialist
Durham Public Schools
Durham, NC
06.2023 - 08.2025
- Led districtwide math curriculum initiatives, ensuring vertical and horizontal alignment with NC State Standards.
- Delivered large-scale professional development for teachers and academic coaches.
- Conducted data analysis to identify achievement gaps and develop targeted instructional strategies.
- Collaborated with district leadership to advocate for policy improvements and resource allocation.
- Designed and implemented professional development sessions focused on enhancing math instruction for K–5 educators.
- Managed district-wide math initiatives, including resource allocation, budget oversight, and vendor partnerships.
3rd–5th Grade Math Interventionist
Durham Public Schools
Durham, NC
11.2019 - 06.2023
- Developed targeted math intervention strategies to enhance student understanding and performance.
- Collaborated with educators to assess student needs and tailor instructional materials accordingly.
- Implemented data-driven assessments to monitor student progress and adapt interventions effectively.
- Mentored fellow staff on best practices for delivering differentiated math instruction.
Classroom Teacher
Kestrel Heights School
Durham, NC
08.2012 - 06.2017
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment to enhance student learning and participation.
- Utilized formative assessments to evaluate student progress and inform instructional strategies.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects that promote critical thinking skills.
Classroom Teacher
Durham Public Schools
Durham, NC
08.2006 - 06.2012
- Incorporated technology tools to support diverse learning styles and enhance educational outcomes.
- Mentored new teachers, providing guidance on classroom management and instructional best practices.
- Led professional development workshops focused on innovative teaching methodologies and assessment techniques.
- Spearheaded initiatives to improve student engagement through creative curriculum enhancements and community involvement activities.
Education
Ed.D - Educational Leadership And Management
University of Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ11-2024
Master of Arts - Education
University of Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ10-2011
Master of Arts - Elementary Education
North Carolina Central University
Durham, NC12-2005
Skills
- Strategic Planning
- Organizational Leadership
- Change Management
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Executive Coaching
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Team Leadership
- Project Management
Affiliations
Founder & CEO — Greater Promise Elite Learning
Co-Founder & President — Donald Deneil Harrison Scholarship Foundation
Certification
Elementary Education (K-6)
Middle Grades Math (6-9)
Timeline
District Curriculum Specialist
Durham Public Schools
06.2023 - 08.2025
3rd–5th Grade Math Interventionist
Durham Public Schools
11.2019 - 06.2023
Founder
Greater Promise Elite Learning
04.2015 - Current
Classroom Teacher
Kestrel Heights School
08.2012 - 06.2017
Classroom Teacher
Durham Public Schools
08.2006 - 06.2012
Co-Founder/President
Donald Deneil Harrison Scholarship Foundation
01.2006 - Current
Ed.D - Educational Leadership And Management
University of Phoenix
Master of Arts - Education
University of Phoenix
Master of Arts - Elementary Education
North Carolina Central University