Sharon Leathers

Sharon Leathers is an Assistant Professor of Literacy in the Teacher Education Program at Ramapo College of New Jersey's School of Social Science and Human Services, where she has been teaching since 2019. She teaches courses including Student Literacy Corps, Literacy Theory and Practice, Reading and Writing in the Content Areas, and Literacy across the Elementary Curriculum.

Dr. Leathers received her Ed.D. in Curriculum Studies from Teachers College, Columbia University, an M.A. in Educational Administration from California State University, Los Angeles, an M.Ed. in Literacy from William Paterson University, and dual B.A. degrees in Political Science and Spanish from Rutgers University. She holds multiple certifications including National Board Certified Teacher, Supervisory Certification, Middle Grades Mathematics-Science Teacher Education Program Certification, Standard Elementary School Teacher Certification, and District Bilingual Certification.

Her research focuses on urban education, literacy education, teacher education with an emphasis on early-career teachers, and diversifying the teacher workforce. Dr. Leathers is particularly interested in racial and social justice pedagogies, culturally relevant and sustaining approaches to education, and new literacies. Her work explores how educators can create equitable learning environments that honor students' cultural and linguistic backgrounds while promoting academic achievement.

Dr. Leathers' recent publications and presentations demonstrate a strong commitment to understanding and addressing racial disparities in education. Her work spans topics including teacher collaboration in urban settings, recruitment and retention of teachers of color, racial literacy in teacher education, and the application of critical pedagogy frameworks from thinkers like Paulo Freire and bell hooks. Her research consistently centers on creating more equitable educational experiences and outcomes for students of color.

As part of Ramapo College's Teacher Education and Certification Program, Dr. Leathers contributes to preparing educators who are highly competent in their academic disciplines and highly effective in their instructional skills, with a focus on reflective, innovative teaching behaviors and dedication to lifelong learning. Her work bridges theory and practice, connecting academic research with practical applications in K-12 settings.