April J. Niemela

April J. Niemela is a Teaching Professor in the Teacher Education & Mathematics Division at Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC). She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology & Educational Technology from Michigan State University, an M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction from the University of Idaho, and a B.A. in English with Secondary Certification from LCSC. With 16 years of classroom teaching experience (7-12 grade English, Reading, Speech, Spanish, and Creative Writing) and 7 years in professional development/coaching for K-12 educators, Dr. Niemela brings extensive experience to LCSC's Teacher Education Program.

• Professional Affiliations: Idaho Coaching Network (Co-Director, 2013-2019), NCTE Secondary Steering Committee
• Recognition: 2012 Lewiston School District Teacher of the Year

Her research interests focus on instructional coaching, transformative learning experiences, and educator professional development. She actively mentors student interns in public schools and contributes to teacher training initiatives.

Awards highlight her impact in educational leadership and mentorship. She has no listed publications but maintains active roles in curriculum design and teacher support programs.