Amber Howard

Dr. Amber Howard is an Assistant Professor at Missouri State University’s School of Teaching, Learning and Developmental Sciences, specializing in Childhood Education and Family Studies. She is a certified Mental Health First Aid trainer and leads initiatives in competency-based learning (CBL), equity-centered education, and trauma-informed practices.

• Education: BSED (Missouri State), MSED (Missouri State), EDD (University of Missouri)
• Courses taught: ELE 410, ELE 425, ELE 500, ELE 501, ELE 510, ELE 530, ELE 720, ELE 771, ELE 772, EEM 796/ELE 723

Her research focuses on equity-centered teacher education, secondary trauma in educators, and humanizing pedagogical systems. She spearheads partnerships between MSU and schools like Mark Twain Elementary and Fremont Elementary to implement CBL frameworks, emphasizing real-world learning and alternative assessment models. Howard also advocates for equity in education through programs like Removing Barriers, which supports English language learners and their families.

Scientific awards include:

• 2023: Excellence in Teaching Award (MSU Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning)
• 2025: Excellence in Teaching Award (Missouri State University Foundation)

She is affiliated with networks such as the Relation Centered Education Network, American Reading Forum, and Success Ready Student Network (SRSN), collaborating on statewide CBL initiatives and educator professional development.