Amber K. Howard

Dr. Amber K. Howard is an Assistant Professor of Elementary Education at Missouri State University, affiliated with the School of Teaching, Learning and Developmental Sciences and the Department of Childhood Education and Family Studies. Her work focuses on equity-centered trauma-informed education practices, educator wellness, and culturally responsive teaching.

• BSED & MSED in Elementary Education and Literacy from Missouri State University
• EdD in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from University of Missouri

Research interests include secondary trauma in K-12 teachers, humanizing teaching practices, equity in assessment, and competency-based learning. She actively promotes educator well-being as a certified Mental Health First Aid trainer.

Professional affiliations include membership in the Relation Centered Education Network, American Reading Forum, Missouri Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, Association of Teacher Educators, and Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Scientific Awards

• Excellence in Teaching Award (2025) - Missouri State University Foundation
• Excellence in Teaching Award (2023) - Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning

Dr. Howard teaches courses in elementary education spanning undergraduate and graduate programs, including topics on multilingual learners and social-emotional learning. She contributed to establishing Missouri State's Global Education Lab and advocates for international workforce integration in local education systems.