Dr Lily Pad

Dr. Vanessa Howard has spent her entire life surrounded by children. My mom was my biggest cheerleader encouraging me to return to school to pursue my dream to become an educator. Vanessa Howard, a professional educator since 1996 and have obtained numerous awards and recognition. She has been a lead teacher, summer school administrator, reading coach, literacy coach, reading specialist, curriculum development, and classroom teacher. She has brought a special energy and talent to motivate teachers and students transforming the learning community. “I think that my two greatest contributions to the educational field are inspiring my students to think about thinking (developing critical thinking & problem solving skills) and coaching teachers.” For the past decade, Dr. Howard has conducted professional development workshops and seminars for thousands of educators. Focusing on the students who are too often struggling learners, she lectures on topics like, “Testing Smart and Not Hard,” “Testing Strategies,” “Cooperative Grouping,” “How to Motivate Reluctant Learners” and “Reading Strategies the Work.”

I am a child centered teacher that incorporates effective instructional strategies that work. I use whole group, small group, and flexible grouping when providing instructions for my students. I try to engage all of my students in the learning process by using cooperative learning strategies.

Awards & Recognitions include: Ferguson-Florissant School District Teacher of the Year in 2013, Johnson-Wabash Elementary School Teacher of the Year 2013, Top 10 Missouri Assessment Program Test Scores 2012, 2011, 2010, Johnson-Wabash Elementary School Teacher of the Year 2010, “Apple for the Teacher 2007” Iota Phi Lamba Sorority Inc., Multi-Cultural Affairs Educational Mentor-UMSL

Doctorate in Education Leadership: Maryville University Educational Preparation include: B.S. in Elementary Education from Harris Stowe State University (summa cum laude), M.Ed. in Elementary Education from University of Missouri-St. Louis, Ed.S. in Elementary Administration, Certification: Early Childhood, Remedial Reading, Education Administration.

My mom and I were in college together. Our goal was to open an early childhood center to provide quality education to inner-city children. Sadly, she passed away from cancer her senior year. Lily's Pad is my tribute to her legacy.