Laura Sokal

Laura Sokal is a Professor of Education at the University of Winnipeg in central Canada. With over two decades of academic service since 2000, she has established herself as a leading researcher in educational psychology with a focus on the psycho-social aspects of teaching and learning across all educational levels.

Her academic background includes a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from the University of Manitoba (2000). Beyond her university role, she has extensive practical experience working in schools across five countries, serving as a Child Life Therapist, Director of programs for marginalized children and youth, and previously as Associate Dean of Education.

Dr. Sokal leads the RISE Research Lab, which focuses on supporting psychological health and resilience in the education sector. Her SSHRC-funded research examines teacher and student well-being, inclusion practices, and the impact of crises like the pandemic on educational environments. Her work has been published in journals including the International Journal of Educational Research, the McGill Journal of Education, and The Journal of Teaching and Learning.

Her research demonstrates consistent themes around educator mental health, resource allocation in schools, and strategies for supporting vulnerable students. Recent work has focused on pandemic-related challenges including teacher burnout, masked teaching for young children, and systemic resource imbalances affecting educational outcomes.

• Award-winning teacher recognized for excellence in pedagogy
• Principal investigator on SSHRC-funded research projects
• Collaborates with Canadian Mental Health Association on educator mental health initiatives
• Research cited by major media outlets and government bodies

Dr. Sokal maintains active engagement with educational practitioners through workshops, policy recommendations, and knowledge mobilization efforts designed to translate research findings into practical classroom applications.