Joy Esboldt

Joy Esboldt is an Assistant Professor in the School of Education at the University of Delaware. Her research focuses on critical theories of race, power, and equity in educational contexts, emphasizing how teachers, leaders, and organizations engage in transformative learning processes. She employs qualitative methods, partnering with educators committed to fostering democratic and liberatory learning environments.

Education:

• Ph.D., Critical Studies of Race, Class, and Gender in Education, University of California, Berkeley (2024)
• M.Ed., Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership, University of Illinois
• B.A., Spanish Literature and Language, Carleton College (2009)

Research interests include sociopolitical dynamics of teacher learning, racial equity in K-12 instruction, and organizational processes that drive or hinder social justice in education.

Professional Awards:

• Judith Warren Little Fellowship (2024)
• National Academy of Education/Spencer Dissertation Fellowship (2023)

Grants and Mentorship:

• Racial Equity Research Grants (Haas School of Business, UC Berkeley, 2021-2023)
• Graduate Mentorship Support (Institute for Research on Labor and Employment, UC Berkeley)

Professional Experience: Prior to academia, Dr. Esboldt worked as a public school teacher (2009-2013) and equity-focused instructional coach (2013-2017). She also serves as a DEI consultant and qualitative researcher, collaborating with The Equity Collaborative.