Kathryn Fishman-Weaver

Dr. Kathryn Fishman-Weaver is the Executive Director of Mizzou Academy and an Associate Teaching Professor in community engagement and school leadership at the University of Missouri’s College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis. She leads a K–12 lab school serving over 7,000 students globally and teaches future educators while advising doctoral committees and supporting undergraduate research.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis
• M.Ed. in Special Education
• B.S. in Sociology

Her research centers on wholehearted teaching and leadership, neurodiversity, inclusive classrooms, gifted education, and Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR). She promotes brain-based, strengths-focused, and emotionally intelligent approaches to education. Her recent publications explore affective education, gender studies in schools, and compassionate leadership.

Her authored and co-authored books reflect a strong trend in integrating emotional well-being, equity, and leadership across K–12 and teacher education contexts. Themes of hope, high expectations, and community are central across her scholarly output.

Scientific Recognition:

• Work cited by the U.S. Department of Education

Dr. Fishman-Weaver is actively involved in advising and grant-supported educational initiatives. She supports honors undergraduates in research and serves on doctoral committees, contributing to the next generation of educational scholars. She also leads professional development workshops nationally and internationally.

She leads initiatives in community engagement and youth advocacy, including facilitating YPAR projects and volunteering as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. Her work bridges academic scholarship with real-world impact in schools and communities.