Mary Jane O’Connell is a Professional Development Associate with The Leadership and Learning Center. With 23 years of experience as an elementary principal, she brings a unique practitioner’s perspective to her work with educators. She has worked with central office staff, teachers, and administrators at all grade levels. Mary Jane’s commitment to helping all children succeed is unwavering.
As a skilled and highly organized facilitator, Mary Jane is able to work effectively with large and small groups. She quickly establishes rapport and trust with participants. Mary Jane is able to use many processes to keep participants focused and actively engaged in order to meet desired goals and outcomes. She has facilitated the work of curriculum committees and a variety of task force groups.
Mary Jane supports the Leadership and Learning Center’s core work and presents seminars on Data-Driven Decision Making, Data Teams, Power and “Unwrapping” Standards, Engaging Classroom Assessments, Common Formative Assessments, Response to Intervention, and Writing to Learn. As a trained leadership performance coach, she particularly enjoys providing implementation support services and mentoring principals and school teams committed to helping each child succeed.
Mary Jane holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of California, Northridge and a Master’s degree from the University of Colorado in Educational Administration. She taught seven years before becoming an elementary principal in a fast growing school district in Colorado. Mary Jane has personal experience with year-round education, opening new schools, and pay for performance. Additionally, she established a model school in her district for Continuous Quality Improvement.
Mary Jane’s permanent residence is in Sedalia, Colorado. In addition to being an avid reader, she and her family enjoy the winters skiing. Her hobbies include reading, downhill skiing, and fly-fishing. The O’Connell’s have four grown children, two grandchildren, and two Labradors, who continue to keep the household buzzing with excitement.
Video Introduction
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What Clients Say
“It was great… thanks! This was our 6th training and we learn something new each time!”
—Jennifer Wildman, Principal, Landmark Elementary School, CA
“I have a deeper understanding of the process as a result of this session. I appreciate that this training moved along well.”
—Brooke Hofkins, Coach, Pajaro Valley Unified School District
