Debbie Dailey

Dr. Debbie Dailey serves as Interim Dean and Associate Professor in the College of Education at the University of Central Arkansas, providing academic leadership across administrative and instructional domains while maintaining active research in specialized educational fields.

Educational Background:

• Ed.D. in Education Administration and Supervision from University of Arkansas at Little Rock
• Gifted and Talented Education Certificate from Harding University
• M.S.E. in Biology from Arkansas State University
• B.S.E. in Biology, General Science (Co-Emphasis: Chemistry) from Arkansas State University

Her research centers on the critical intersection of STEM and gifted education, with particular expertise in engineering design processes for K-8 advanced learners. She pioneers curriculum development for integrating engineering practices into elementary science education while addressing gender disparities in STEM fields. Her work extends to teacher preparation models, digital-age professional development, and classroom assessment strategies specifically tailored for gifted populations.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals three dominant trends: (1) Development of spatial reasoning and engineering habits of mind in young learners, (2) Impact of systemic disruptions (like school closures) on gifted programming, and (3) Strategic alignment of gifted education standards with broader educational frameworks including ISTE technology standards. Her scholarship consistently bridges theoretical research with practical classroom applications.

No scientific awards were documented in available sources.

As Interim Dean, Dr. Dailey oversees all college operations including major federal initiatives like GEAR UP and Upward Bound grant programs. Her leadership extends to statewide educational partnerships through the Arkansas Leadership Academy and Public School Resource Center, where she influences policy development and resource allocation for K-12 education across Arkansas.

She maintains active involvement in the Arkansas Research Center and Bears EmpowerED Initiative, focusing on innovative teacher preparation models and STEM talent development pipelines that connect university resources with K-12 classroom implementation.