Erica Ringelspaugh

Erica Ringelspaugh serves as Assistant Professor of English at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, joining the faculty in 2016 after a decade teaching in rural school districts. She coordinates the Connections Project, a program launched in 2006 that partners UWSP students with rural high schools for virtual reading comprehension instruction, culminating in on-campus workshops and presentations.

Her academic credentials include:

• Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Edgewood College
• M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning from St. Mary's University of Minnesota
• B.S. in English Major/Education Certificate from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Ringelspaugh's research centers on rural education challenges, specifically novice teacher development in implementing critical literacy and balanced assessment methodologies. Her foundational dissertation "Novice Teacher’s Experiences Implementing Critical Literacy in Rural Schools" directly informs her practical approach to teacher education and curriculum design.

She received the University Excellence in Teaching award in 2022. Her philosophy prioritizes cultivating students' lifelong engagement with reading and writing, emphasizing identity development as readers, writers, and future educators.

Through the Connections Project, Ringelspaugh mentors UWSP students in designing and delivering virtual reading instruction to rural high schoolers. Students collaborate with faculty mentors to evaluate high schoolers' comprehension skills and participate in comprehensive on-campus workshops, creating a cyclical learning model that addresses literacy gaps in underserved communities.