Aaron Rife

Dr. Aaron Rife is the Department Chair and Associate Professor in the School of Education at Wichita State University, part of the College of Applied Studies. He has served in these roles since joining the university in 2014. His research focuses on education policy, school desegregation history, and urban education dynamics, with a particular emphasis on racial equity and teacher preparation.

His publications examine topics such as alternative teacher certification, emergency school shutdown responses, and the evolution of school districts in urban areas like Wichita. He also explores themes of educator allyship and implicit bias in teaching practices.

Dr. Rife’s work bridges historical analysis with contemporary educational challenges, contributing to debates on neoliberal education policies and the sociological dimensions of school systems. His research spans multiple decades, reflecting both historical case studies and modern crises like the 2020 pandemic school closures.

No specific awards or grants are listed in the provided text, though his leadership roles suggest active involvement in academic service. His teaching and advising focus on middle/secondary history and government education programs, though specific student advisees are not documented here.