Laurie Gauger-Hested

Laurie Gauger-Hested serves as a Professor of Education at Martin Luther College, where she holds a dual role in the Department of Education Studies and as Director of the Early Childhood Learning Center. Her institutional affiliation spans both academic instruction and practical leadership in early childhood education.

Her research focuses on critical areas of modern pedagogy:

• Development of inclusive classroom strategies for diverse learners
• Integration of special education methodologies in early childhood settings
• Teacher preparation for inclusive educational environments
• Leadership development in early childhood program administration

As Director of the Early Childhood Learning Center, she oversees a vital training ground for future educators while providing community-based early education services. This dual role bridges theoretical instruction with real-world application, emphasizing hands-on teacher preparation within the college's mission to train WELS-affiliated educators.