Dean Spotlight: Dr. Kimberly LaPrade

Dr. Kimberly LaPrade is the dean of the College of Education. She earned her PhD in educational leadership from Capella University in 2008 and is a proud Grand Canyon University alumni who received her MEd in secondary education and BA in English/sociology in 2000 and 1990, respectively. Dr. LaPrade’s research efforts focus on topics related to teacher leadership and aspects of teacher preparation, performance and assessment.

In addition, Dr. LaPrade serves on several committees and holds membership or volunteers in several professional and community associations, such as The Education Coalition, Soroptomist International of the Kachinas and the Valley of the Sun Children Advisory Council.

We asked Dr. LaPrade a couple of questions about the benefits of pursuing an education degree and the GCU experience:

What advice do you have for students who are interested in pursuing an education degree?

To pursue a job in education gives students a wonderful opportunity to serve others while living their faith. There is no more important job than educating our children and youth! If you want to be a teacher, remember:

• All life experiences are “job interviews.”  Be professional in all you say and do.
• Learning how to manage your time is a necessity as a teacher.  Begin now to set good time management habits.
• Read professional education journals to enhance your own professional and pedagogical knowledge and to assist you in writing good scholarly papers.
• Hone your leadership and teaching skills. Become involved in opportunities to volunteer in your community working with children/youth.

What would you like future students to know about GCU and the College of Education?

Here at GCU, we believe teaching is a calling and a noble profession for those who are committed to educating, serving, and leading children and youth. In doing so, their charges become productive and contributing members of their own communities. We have over 60 years of history preparing educators to serve their communities. Also, given the high quality of our programs and faculty, we support our graduates of licensure programs during their first year of teaching or leading—this is known as the COE Promise.

To learn about the education degree programs available at Grand Canyon University, visit our website or use the Request More Information button at the top of the page.