Alexandra A. Lauterbach

Dr. Alexandra Lauterbach is a Professor in the Department of Student Development (SD) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, affiliated with the College of Education. Her research focuses on effective literacy instruction for students with specific learning disabilities (SLD) and professional development strategies for educators. She investigates how teacher cognition impacts instructional quality and student outcomes, particularly in literacy. Her work also addresses teacher education at preservice and inservice levels to prepare educators for inclusive settings.

• Education:
• B.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2002
• M.S.Ed., University of Pennsylvania, 2003
• Ph.D., University of Florida, 2013

Her research interests span special education, STEM inclusion for students with disabilities, and educational equity. Recent work explores barriers to postsecondary STEM education for students with disabilities and qualitative methodologies in special education research. She has also published on school leadership roles in supporting students with emotional/behavioral disorders and the integration of physical activity in mental health interventions.

Lauterbach’s awards and grants are not explicitly listed in the provided texts, but her extensive publication record reflects sustained engagement with grant-funded research. She advises on special education policy and teacher training initiatives, though specific student advisees are not mentioned here. Her work often intersects with interdisciplinary teams addressing curriculum design, professional development frameworks, and inclusive pedagogy.