Tara Bartlett

Tara Bartlett is a Clinical Assistant Professor at Arizona State University's Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, where she contributes to the preparation of future educators and advances research in civic education and democratic innovation. Her work bridges academic scholarship with community-based practice, focusing on youth civic engagement, participatory governance, and inclusive school democracy.

Education:

• PhD in Education Policy and Evaluation, Arizona State University (2023)
• Certificate in Social Science Research Methods, Arizona State University (2021)
• MA in Social Cultural Pedagogy, Arizona State University (2015)
• Certificate in Social Entrepreneurship + Community Development, Arizona State University (2015)
• BA in Elementary Education, Arizona State University (2006)

Tara’s research interests include participatory governance, civic engagement, inclusive education, educational policy, democratic theory, and mixed methods. Her work is grounded in participatory action research and community-based inquiry, aiming to empower youth and families in school decision-making. She has led and contributed to numerous civic learning initiatives, including Project Citizen and the Educating for American Democracy roadmap.

Her recent publications focus on school participatory budgeting (SPB), alternatives to school policing, and the impact of digital media on civic life. These works reflect a strong trend toward democratic renewal in education, youth-led civic innovation, and equity-centered school reform. Her scholarship often emphasizes student voice, deliberative democracy, and practical tools for educators and communities.

Scientific Awards:

• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Knowledge Cooperative (2023)
• Arizona State University President's Medal for Social Embeddedness (2021)
• Center for Philosophical Technologies Cannibalization Fellowship Award (2021)
• Arizona Diamondbacks Most Valuable Teacher Award (2020)
• John J. Ross Award for Teacher Excellence in Law-Related Education (2019)
• Mesa Public Schools Service-Learning Teacher of the Year (2018)
• Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education Featured Teacher (2017)
• Mesa, Arizona Oriental Masonic Lodge Top Twenty Teachers (2016)
• Shon Zelman Student Advocacy Award (2015)

Tara has been instrumental in advising and leading major civic education programs and research projects. She has secured and contributed to grants from the U.S. Department of Education and other institutions, focusing on American history and civics, school safety reform, and inclusive participatory budgeting. She serves as Co-Director of the Arizona Civic Coalition and is actively involved in national and international civic initiatives, including those with the U.S. State Department.

She is a core member of the Arizona State University Participatory Governance Initiative and the North American Participatory Budgeting Research Board, where she collaborates on research, policy development, and community engagement efforts aimed at strengthening democratic practices in educational settings.