Smith, Dominique
Dominique Smith is an award-winning educator, author, and school leader who has dedicated two decades to transforming schools into inclusive, safe, and empowering spaces for students and educators alike. He currently serves as principal at Health Sciences High and Middle College in San Diego, California. Smith earned his doctorate in educational leadership from San Diego State University and a master of social work from the University of Southern California. His dual expertise in education and social work uniquely positions him to bridge the gap between academic success, emotional safety, and equitable school culture. A passionate advocate for belonging, restorative practices, and leadership development, Smith has co-authored several influential books through Corwin. In recognition of his commitment to fostering safe and supportive school environments, Smith received the National School Safety Award from the School Safety Advocacy Council. His TED Talk on building authentic relationships between students and teachers has inspired educators across the country to reimagine connection as the cornerstone of
effective teaching and learning. Through his leadership, writing, and speaking, Smith continues to champion the belief that when students feel seen, heard, and valued, they are empowered to thrive both academically and personally. His work challenges schools to move beyond compliance and discipline toward cultures of belonging, accountability, and restorative growth.
Fisher, Douglas
Douglas Fisher is a professor and chair of educational leadership at San Diego State University and a teacher leader at Health Sciences High and Middle College. Previously, Fisher was an early intervention teacher and elementary school educator. In 2022, he was inducted into the Reading Hall of Fame by the Literacy Research Association. He has published numerous articles on reading and literacy, leadership, and curriculum design, as well as books such as Your Introduction to PLC+, Welcome to Teaching, How Feedback Works, Teaching Reading, and RIGOR Unveiled. Fisher loves being an educator and hopes to share that passion with others.
Blythe, Carl
Dr. Carl Blythe is a dynamic and mission-driven educational leader who serves as Principal of Mary Castle Elementary in the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township in Indianapolis, Indiana. With a strong track record of leadership, Dr. Blythe is known for fostering a culture of high expectations anchored in belonging, student voice, and collective accountability.
He holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree, a Master’s degree in Education, and a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. His research and professional practice emphasize building collaborative instructional systems, developing teacher leadership, and cultivating a school culture that supports the success of every learner.
Dr. Blythe has led district-aligned efforts in professional learning communities, instructional rigor, culturally responsive practices, and community engagement. He is particularly passionate about creating school environments where all students feel seen, supported, and challenged to reach their fullest potential—believing that relationships and results go hand in hand.
As a writer, professional development facilitator, and thought leader, Dr. Blythe brings a practitioner’s lens to transformational work in schools and is committed to equipping educators with the tools to lead with purpose, impact, and integrity.
Frey, Nancy
Nancy Frey is a professor of educational leadership at San Diego State University and a teacher leader at Health Sciences High and Middle College. Her published titles include The Courage to Learn, The Art and Science of Coaching, How Scaffolding Works, and The Illustrated Guide to Visible Learning. Frey is a credentialed special educator, reading specialist, and administrator in California and learns from teachers and students every day.
Hansen, Taryl
Taryl Hansen is a visual practitioner and the creator of Frame the Message Ink, LLC (framethemessageink.com). She is an associate trainer for Cognitive CoachingSM and holds a doctorate in teacher leadership and innovation from Arizona State University. Taryl has been trained by Thinking Collaborative and Grove Consultants International, leaders in the fields of learning and cognition. As a live graphic recorder and illustrator, Taryl works internationally to create vibrant and engaging visuals that bring essential elements to the forefront for learners, enhancing retention, driving engagement, and inspiring learners to collaborate in more meaningful ways.
