Biography

Dr. Kristan Shields is a dedicated educator, leader, and mentor with over 25 years of experience spanning K-12 schools and higher education. She earned her Doctorate of Education in Learning Organizations and Strategic Change from Lipscomb University in December 2024. Her academic journey also includes an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership and a Master’s in Special Education from Oakland University, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Rochester College. Kristan’s career reflects a deep commitment to excellence, student needs, and strategic instructional leadership.

She has served in impactful roles across multiple states, including as an intervention coordinator with Metro Nashville Public Schools and a literacy teacher leader with Rochester Community Schools. Her experience includes training and mentoring teachers, designing and delivering professional development aligned with district and state goals, and leading initiatives in MTSS, special education, and curriculum implementation. Kristan has presented on topics locally, regionally, and across multiple states. A highly effective educator and administrator, Kristan holds licensure and endorsements across Tennessee, Michigan, and Illinois in general and special education, as well as K-12 administration. In higher education, Kristan teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses at Lipscomb University and Rochester University, specializing in special education law, instructional methods, and leadership in a variety of learning environments. She has contributed to state-level standards revision and served on numerous district and institutional committees, advisory boards, and groups focused on student needs and instructional excellence. In Tennessee, she’s involved with the State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE) through the Lead with Literacy Network. Kristan is certified in LETRS, ATR, and Early Reading. Her professional memberships include the International Dyslexia Association, the Council for Exceptional Children, and Learning Disabilities of America. Kristan's impact extends beyond the classroom through her work as a trainer-of-trainers in literacy and math interventions, her involvement in national and state-level education initiatives, and her commitment to community engagement through mentoring and service. She is known for her visibility, collaboration, and student-centered approach.

Academic Degrees

• Ed.D. in Learning Organizations and Strategic Change – Lipscomb University, 2024

• Ed.S. in Educational Leadership – Oakland University

• M.A. in Special Education – Oakland University

• B.A. in Elementary Education – Rochester College

Academic Department

College of Education