Tracy Cook-Person

Tracy Cook-Person is an Assistant Professor of Early Childhood/Childhood Urban Education at Long Island University (LIU). As an educator, lecturer, storyteller, and published poet, she focuses on holistic and experiential education, building community partnerships, and applying a social justice lens to teacher training. Her work bridges educational institutions with cultural and community organizations, particularly in urban contexts.

• B.A. from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY
• MS.Ed from Pace University
• ABD at The Graduate Center, CUNY

Her research explores teacher affect, mentorship, leadership development, and the critical transition period between high school and college for first-generation African American students. She also engages in global education initiatives through partnerships with the United Nations, the World Council of Curriculum and Instruction (WCCI), and a German high school in Gernsbach.

The 2018 article Autobiographical Analysis as a Foundation for Reflective Practice reflects her emphasis on integrating personal narratives into teacher development frameworks. This work aligns with broader themes of reflective practice, urban pedagogy, and cultural responsiveness in education.

Scientific Awards

• Claes Nobel Laureate Award for Teaching (2006, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014)
• Who’s Who of American Teachers (2004-2006)
• Phillis Hyman Award for Service to Youth (2012)
• Congressional Award for Community Service to Youth (2013)
• Brooklyn Borough President’s Office Citation (2014)

Her grants include funding from the Brooklyn Arts Council and CCNY for initiatives like Brooklyn Summer Shakespeare-ience (2013–2015). She actively collaborates with organizations like HLA Gernsbach (Germany) and TR@TC2 at Teachers College to advance youth leadership and teacher activism.