Ashley Cartun

Ashley Cartun is an Associate Teaching Professor and Program Director for Secondary Humanities at the University of Colorado Boulder's School of Education, specializing in the Humanities Education Literacy Studies department. She holds a PhD in Literacy Studies and has been Director of Elementary Field Experiences since 2016. Prior to this role, she was a secondary English teacher. Her research emphasizes critical literacy, educational equity, teacher education, and affective pedagogies, particularly focusing on writing practices in elementary education and critical witness pedagogy.

Education Background:

• BS in English Education, University of Connecticut (2006)
• MA in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - Literacy), University of Connecticut (2007)

Research Interests: Combines critical literacy with emotional and affective dimensions of learning. Explores how teacher education programs can foster equitable practices through immersive, community-connected methods. Her work often intersects with trauma-informed pedagogy and the role of literature in shaping educational experiences.

Publications Trends: Her articles (2014–2020) focus on affective dimensions of literacy, practice-based teacher education, and the integration of community partnerships. Key themes include 'affective archives,' 'critical witness pedagogy,' and disrupting traditional educational binaries.

Awards: Recipient of the Elizabeth Wilson Award (2013).

Advising & Grants: While no specific grants are listed, her role as a program director suggests involvement in curriculum development and field experience coordination. No advisee list is provided in the text.

Labs/Teams: Active in the School of Education's field experience initiatives and collaborative literacy partnerships with schools.