Sam Intrator

Sam Intrator is the Elizabeth A. Woodson 1922 Professor of Education and Child Study at Smith College. He co-founded the Education Initiative and Mindich Educational Fellowship, focusing on innovative programs that engage youth through cross-age teaching and out-of-school learning. His research bridges educational theory and practice, emphasizing teacher well-being, youth development, and the role of poetry in sustaining educators.

Education: Ph.D., M.A. (Stanford University); M.A. (Middlebury College); B.A. (SUNY Binghamton).

Key Research Interests:

• Out-of-school program design
• Youth participatory action research
• Emotional dimensions of teaching
• Poetry's role in teacher resilience

Recent Work Trends: Recent articles address financial barriers in higher education, youth transitions post-high school, and ethical alignment in teaching practices. His 2022 paper critiques systemic affordability challenges, while 2021 work explores youth-driven solutions to educational transitions.

Awards:

• Nautilus Book Award Gold Medal (2007)
• Grawemeyer Award Finalist (2003)
• White House Presidential Distinguished Teacher Award

Grants & Labs: His work has been supported by Kellogg and Ella Baker fellowships. He leads initiatives integrating poetry into teacher training and cross-age mentorship programs.