Kara Campbell, Ed.D.
Pride Pathway Instructor and Program Director

  • Faculty
College of Innovation and Design
Related Department
College of Innovation and Design

At five years old, Kara Campbell knew she wanted to be a teacher. Though her path took twists and turns and more than 10 years in the business world, Campbell found her way to the K-12 classroom through alternative teacher certification. Teaching in underserved schools, she confronted the harsh realities of educational barriers head-on, driving her to seek innovative solutions. Her mission was to reignite the spark of curiosity in students who had lost hope. Teaching became Kara's passion. Now in her 26th year in education, she finds joy in igniting a love for learning, where she truly thrives.

A Conversation with Dr. Campbell

Why do you like teaching? 

Communication, connection and creativity. Communicating my love of learning. Connecting to the students. Creativity in designing courses and curriculum planning to increase engagement and learning.

What is your favorite course to teach?

Not specifically a course, but any course that touches on lesson design, teaching practice and learning environment. It is what teachers can control the most. It’s where the magic happens.

What do you like most about your career?

 It is where I can channel my positive energy into the Universe. I am passionate about it because I believe it is what the world needs.

What is a current project in which you are involved?

I have mentored teachers working toward National Board Certification since 2014. I have recently worked with the Texas National Board of Coalition Teaching, a non-profit organization that supports teachers working toward this goal. I love seeing the revitalization of veteran teachers and the rapid growth in knowledge and ability of teachers new to the profession. This work continues to increase teacher effectiveness and teacher retention and positively builds the teaching profession.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In addition to reading, I like to be out in nature, hiking and camping. I also love to be creative, painting, remodeling furniture, sewing and cooking.

Educational Background

Awards and Honors

  • National Board Certified Teacher Champion, Texas Coalition for National Board Certified Teachers, 2024

Research Interests

  • Teacher preparation, teacher quality and teachers as professionals
  • Teacher retention
  • Student and teacher leadership
  • Professional learning communities

Professional Organizations

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