Janine Al-Aseer
Clinical Faculty and Director
jalaseer@utk.edu
Dr. Al-Aseer is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Theory and Practice in Teacher Education (TPTE) at the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Her research focuses on Community Schools and other grassroots efforts to protect public education and ensure equitable outcomes for students, caregivers, and the larger community. Her foci include (a) the aligning of resources toward the holistic development of students in the P-12 public education system; (b) encouraging communities toward awareness of and engagement in their local schools; and (c) facilitating the implementation of authentic initiatives that are designed by and work hand-in-hand with the communities they serve. She is deeply dedicated to the mission of the Boyd Community Schools Collaboration Hub and has made a lifelong commitment to serving the East Tennessee community.
Jordan Shields
Research Data Manager
jfrye@utk.edu
Jordan Shields is a macro practice social worker with a practice background that includes community development, stakeholder engagement, resource coordination, program evaluation, and implementation planning. Her interest in public education, especially whole student support, originated from working as a community school coordinator, which sparked her passion for preventative and early interventions. Jordan has worked with education-adjacent nonprofits to evaluate and support the successful implementation of whole-student support programs in the areas of after-school programming, postsecondary education access, school mental health, and other integrated systems of support for students and families. In her role as the research data manager, she manages the evaluation projects for the Boyd Community Schools Collaboration Hub.
Temvy Matsebula
Research Assistant
tmatsebu@vols.utk.edu
“Temvelo” (Temvy) Matsebula, a PhD student in the TPTE department, is deeply committed to revolutionizing mathematics education. Her research endeavors are fueled by a passion for collaborating with in-service and pre-service teachers to reimagine lesson implementation strategies. Beyond the pursuit of academic success, she strives to uncover the inherent joy of mathematics, particularly among students of color. Temvy’s enthusiasm extends to fostering partnerships with educators, families, and community members, aiming to craft educational experiences that resonate with the cultural contexts of students. Ultimately, her mission is to work with other stakeholders in the community and in schools to explore ways that education can serve the children, their families, and the communities.”
Casey Olmstead
Community School Coordinator
Sunbright School, Morgan County
colmste1@utk.edu
Casey Olmstead is dedicated to supporting the students, school, and community of Sunbright School. Her role as the UACS Coordinator allows her to make a positive impact on students’ future outcomes. With a focus on PreK-12 students, Casey’s work aims to ensure the best possible educational experience for each student by using the community school model. Since 2014, Casey has been an integral part of the Sunbright School community, holding various roles within the school. Her passion for student success and family well-being drives her commitment to her work at Sunbright School.