Samantha Mrstik

Samantha Mrstik is an Assistant Professor at the University of West Georgia, affiliated with the Department of Special Education in the College of Education. She earned a Ph.D. in Exceptional Student Education from the University of Central Florida and has 15 years of experience teaching English to high school students with disabilities in Florida.

• B.S. in Exceptional Education (Specific Learning Disabilities), University of Central Florida (1999)
• M.Ed. in Exceptional Education (Varying Exceptionalities), University of Central Florida (2006)
• Ph.D. in Exceptional Education (Secondary Specific Learning Disabilities, English, and International Education), University of Central Florida (2017)

Her research focuses on educational technology for students with mild disabilities and international special education practices. Recent publications examine mixed-reality tools in teacher preparation, online teaching methods, and inclusive practices in Botswana. She emphasizes virtual simulations, teacher leadership, and collaborative education strategies.

Dr. Mrstik teaches graduate courses such as: SPED-6705 (Comprehensive Exam for MAT in Special Education), SPED-6766 (General Curriculum Methods with Practicum), SPED-6776 (Adapted Curriculum Methods), SPED-6792 (Practicum I), SPED-6793 (Internship), SPED-7702 (Technology in Special Education), and SPED-7722 (Collaboration in Special Education).