Erica Simpson

Erica Simpson is a PhD student in the Education, Equity, and Transformation specialization within the School of Education at Colorado State University. Her research focuses on the disproportionate use of exclusionary and punitive discipline practices toward students from marginalized identities within the K-12 public school system. She is beginning a research project investigating decriminalization and humanizing teaching practices by teachers in K-12 public schools to elevate students' sense of belonging.

Her professional journey included 22 years as a classroom teacher and Assistant Principal in public elementary schools. This work illuminated the disservice students face daily through discipline systems, Zero-tolerance policies, and inequities within the education system. As a PhD student, she has worked as a Graduate Teaching Assistant within the School of Education’s teacher preparation program. She teaches foundational and methods classes to students desiring to become educators. She finds great joy and connection working with people who dream of becoming teachers. Her focus on humanizing students’ K-12 educational journey and leading through relationships and connections permeates her teaching with preservice teachers.