Leadership for Democracy in the Classroom

An Outreach Initiative for Diversity in Leadership

Mark Davalos, MEd, received his master’s in educational management from the University of La Verne and is currently the area director for Portland Public Schools. Previously Mr. Davalos served as a principal and assistant director of secondary education for the Salem-Keizer school district. He has directed, coached, and participated in curriculum and instructional improvements for a range of students, from those needing remediation to those requiring advanced education. Fluent in Spanish, he has taught, provided teacher instructional leadership, and trained administrators in a variety of socioeconomic settings. Throughout his career he has also been instrumental in designing and implementing programs for ELL and disadvantaged youth.

Velma R. C. Johnson, EdD—What is best for our kids? This guiding question has been fundamental in Dr. Johnson’s decisions through her career tracks in teaching, serving as principal for middle and high schools, and as an adjunct professor. Most recently Dr. Johnson has applied this question to her doctorate in educational leadership, through her study of culturally responsive teaching practices and democracy in education. Her core beliefs stem from the idea that all kids have the ability to learn and be successful if given the appropriate support and encouragement to maximize their potential. This leads to the successful education of thousands of kids in Portland Public Schools. Dr. Johnson serves as president of an educational consultation business.

Carol R. Smith, EdD, is a consultant in educational leadership and arts education. She has worked in K-12 education for many years, most recently as assistant professor at Lewis & Clark College. She also served as director of the Lewis & Clark Oregon Principals’ Institute. Dr. Smith’s prior experience includes teaching, curriculum and instruction, serving as principal at the elementary and middle school levels, and grant coordinator for the Mentoring New Principals grant from the Ford Family Foundation. She serves on the board of directors of the Regional Committee of the Arts and Culture Council, the education committee of the Oregon Symphony, and the board of directors for the Beaverton Arts Commission and Young Audiences.

Leadership for Democracy in the Classroom

Faculty