Amber R. Peacock

Amber R. Peacock serves as Associate Professor of Education at Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Virginia, where she coordinates the VDOE and CAEP-accredited Exceptional Education teacher preparation program. This program prepares candidates for K-12 Special Education (General Curriculum) teaching licensure in Virginia, emphasizing communication, collaboration, and advocacy for students with exceptionalities.

Her academic credentials include:

• PhD in Educational Leadership from Virginia Commonwealth University (2015)
• MEd in Special Education from James Madison University (1995)
• MS in Human Development from Texas Tech University (1993)
• BA in Psychology from Texas Tech University (1991)

Dr. Peacock's research centers on inclusive pedagogy, high-leverage teaching practices, and professional discernment in special education contexts. Her work addresses critical challenges in teacher wellbeing and program evaluation, with particular focus on bridging liberal arts foundations with practical teacher preparation. She develops frameworks like LATE (Liberal Arts Teacher Education) to strengthen evidence-based practices for diverse K-12 learners.

Her publications demonstrate consistent innovation in teacher education methodology and classroom strategy development. The 2020 LATE framework article establishes theoretical connections between liberal arts education and special education preparation, while the 2017 'Jar discussions' research provides adaptable techniques for enhancing student explanatory skills across grade levels.

Recognition for her contributions includes:

• H. Harris Hiter III Rising Star Award from Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (2020)
• AILACTE Scholar Award from Association of Independent Liberal Arts Colleges for Teacher Education (2019)
• Art Conway Award for Enthusiasm in Teaching and Learning from Randolph-Macon College (2019)

As program coordinator, Dr. Peacock mentors teacher candidates through comprehensive field experiences and coursework, guiding development of individualized education programs, assessment strategies, and transition planning. Her teaching portfolio spans foundational surveys to advanced practicum supervision across multiple EDUC/EXED course codes.

She leads the Exceptional Education program team in maintaining accreditation standards and developing partnerships with regional school divisions to ensure authentic clinical experiences for future special educators.