Susanna Benko

Dr. Susanna Benko is a Professor of English and Director of Teacher Education at Ball State University's College of Sciences and Humanities. She previously served as a middle/high school English teacher and now focuses on teacher preparation, writing pedagogy, and educational policy. Her roles include directing the Indiana Writing Project and overseeing English Education programs.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Language, Literacy, and Culture – University of Pittsburgh
• M.Ed. – Indiana Wesleyan University
• B.S. in English and Secondary Education – Butler University

Research Interests: Dr. Benko studies writing instruction policies, curriculum design, and the intersection of educational standards with classroom practice. Her work critiques how state resources shape teaching practices and advocates for equitable pedagogical approaches. Recent studies analyze Common Core implementation challenges and social class implications in educational materials.

Professional Involvement:

• PDS Liaison for Secondary English/Language Arts in Muncie Community Schools
• Indiana Writing Project Site Director (National Writing Project affiliate)
• Supervises student teachers and teaches writing pedagogy/courses on young adult literature

Grant and Award Activity: While no specific grants are listed, her sustained leadership roles indicate significant institutional support for her work in teacher education and policy research.

Labs/Teams: Active in the Indiana Writing Project, which trains K-12 teachers to improve writing instruction across central Indiana schools.