Dr. Allison Smith has a Ph.D. in teacher education from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and is currently a professor at National University. Through her many roles in teacher education across California, she has become a leading CalTPA expert. Dr. Smith stays current on teacher education in California by participating in meetings, committees, and leadership roles with the Commission on Teacher Credentialing, Pearson, teacher induction programs, and the California Council on Teacher Education. Dr. Smith is passionate about preparing teachers to support all students equitably with rigorous, engaging curriculum that builds on students’ funds of knowledge.
Brian Arnold is the Academic Program Director for National University’s MS in Instructional and Educational Technology. His research focuses primarily on the intersection of educational technology, interest, media, and play. After a short stint teaching middle school, Brian spent the last 20 years in higher education as teacher and administrator. Brian brings experience from a wide variety of media arts and learning experiences including five years as an editor at Nickelodeon animation studios.
Melissa Meetze-Hall (pronounced Metz) is an educator, coach, and co-author of the new CalTPA Handbook: Unpacking Equitable Practices in the California Teaching Performance Assessment. With over two decades of experience supporting new teachers and administrators, and as a lead assessor for California’s performance assessments, Melissa has a unique perspective that shines in this newest publication to support candidates with successful completion of the CalTPA.
Dr. Meetze-Hall’s research and publishing focus on the importance of video and coaching for professional reflection and growth. She is the author of numerous educator research studies, many in collaboration with teacher preparation and induction partners. Melissa lives and works in southern California, where she teaches for the Educational Administration program at the University of Redlands and is an adjunct professor in the Teacher Education Department at National University. She spends her free time hiking and exploring the Pacific Coast.
Lori Piowlski, PhD is a Professor, Acting Associate Dean and Chair of the Teacher Education Department at National University. She is dedicated to advancing diversity, inclusivity, access, equity and social emotional learning in teacher education programs and clinical practice. Her PhD is from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, in Educational Administration in Higher Education. Prior to higher education, she served as an elementary and special education teacher in diverse PK-12 districts, which ignited her passion to immerse herself in culturally proficient teaching practices. Dr. Piowlski is also a co-author of the books, Culturally Proficient Schools, All Means ALL!