Associate Professor: Elementary Education
“Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” -Psalm 103: 1-5
Dr. Kelsey Carroll is an educator, literacy leader, and instructional designer whose career spans elementary classrooms, community literacy programs, and higher education. With experience teaching students from early childhood through the doctoral level, she brings a deep understanding of how literacy and language develop across the lifespan. Throughout her work, Dr. Carroll has felt a strong calling to support educators and students, particularly in culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and she believes literacy is foundational to opportunity and equity.
Dr. Carroll’s professional background includes serving as a classroom teacher, English learner (ELL) specialist, curriculum director, instructional designer, and university faculty member. She currently teaches and designs courses in literacy methods, reading assessment, curriculum design, action research, and ESL/bilingual education at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Grounded in the reading research, trauma-informed teaching, and learner-centered design, her work focuses on teacher preparation, reading instruction, culturally and linguistically responsive teaching, and teacher development.
In addition to her university teaching, Dr. Carroll has worked as an educational consultant and coach, supporting teachers, instructional coaches, and school leaders through professional development workshops. Her approach to teaching and leadership is rooted in collaboration, reflection, and community, and she is passionate about helping educators translate research into effective classroom practice. Dr. Carroll looks forward to partnering with current and future educators as they continue to grow in skill, confidence, and purpose.
Outside of the classroom, Dr. Carroll loves traveling with her husband and all things transportation including hiking, biking, and kayaking. She loves spending time with her family and friends whether it’s an outdoor bonfire or watching Thunder basketball.
