One-Page Bio

Who is DeShanna?

DeShanna Reed, Ed.D. has over a decade in education serving as a general education and special education teacher. She is a former middle school administrator, educational researcher, and author of articles focused on the integration of social-emotional learning competencies and academic content in secondary populations. Dr. Reed is married to her middle school sweetheart, and they share four young adult and teenage children.

Degrees:

  • Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, University of Houston
  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction, Teacher’s College, Western Governors University
  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of Texas at San Antonio

Work history:

  • Assistant Principal and Dean of Students
  • Teacher, EC-6, General and Special Education
  • Healthcare Specialist/Combat Medic, United States Army

What was your aha! moment?

My most recent aha! moment came when I became an administrator. I knew that my students were truly hurting emotionally and socially. The vicious cycle of home-life and social-life stressors led to behavioral incidents, which led to school stressors, and the cycle continued. I also knew that teachers were feeling overwhelmed with their own home-, social-, and school-life issues, which was inadvertently contributing to the cycle. Identifying, acknowledging, and openly addressing the emotional poverty of all parties was the catalyst for much needed change. It was and is the key to motivating positive behaviors and responses from students, encouraging social growth of both students and adults, and understanding why certain behaviors occurred, as well as the triggers, and stopping the cycle.

What are your passions?

I am very passionate about acts of service, so I always look for ways and places I can be of service. I believe the best way to improve a community is by taking action and being of service to its people. Whether it is volunteering at a local charity or at my church, giving back and serving others is what fills my cup.

What do you do for fun?

I love crafting and carpentry! I have always enjoyed working with my hands, and there is just something special about creating something that can be used and passed down from person to person, generation to generation. I learned the craft from my uncle when I was a kid, and I have been doing it ever since. My most favorite pieces that I have built so far are a set of outdoor furniture and a farmhouse table.