Emily Holtz is an assistant professor of Elementary Education in the Department of Theory and Practice in Teacher Education at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Prior to her current position, Holtz worked as an elementary teacher and literacy coach for over a decade before earning her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on multicultural and urban education from Texas A&M University. Holtz’s research centers on advancing access and opportunity in public education by preparing preservice and inservice teachers to foster a vibrant learning environment that enhances their students critical thinking and intellectual growth. Her work examines how teacher preparation programs can equip educators with the knowledge, skills, and professional agency needed to expand educational opportunities and improve student outcomes. Organized into three strands, her research focuses on: (1) strengthening teacher agency to enhance program effectiveness, (2) examining how structural factors influence teacher preparation and practice, and (3) exploring innovative approaches to teacher learning and development. Through this work, Holtz aims to contribute to a public education system where all students have meaningful access to high-quality teaching and learning experiences.