Courtney Holmes is a Special Education Supervisor for Osseo Area Schools, and is described as an advocate of humanity, a strong proponent of individualism, and a formidable adversary of racist practices. Courtney is one of the few female, African American educators and administrators among many white men and women serving communities of African American learners and others of African descent. She is a long-time advocate for students with disabilities and a strong voice in overcoming racism in schools. Courtney’s work in managing the behavior of students with disabilities has evolved into training other professionals how to use culturally responsive strategies and join with parents in a partnership approach to working with struggling students. She has developed useful tools for teachers and provided extensive professional development in early intervention, culturally appropriate communication and instruction, conflict management, and behavioral intervention.
Student Service Coordinator, Osseo Area Schools
K-12 Education Administrative Licensure, 2014
I completed my doctoral degree.
Chris Sonenblum is the most influential person that I had the distinct privilege of encountering during my time in the College of Education and Human Development. She is so knowledgeable and committed to sharing her knowledge with others. She made learning enjoyable. I will forever appreciate her support. The University of Minnesota is fortunate to have her as a part of the faculty.
My favorite memory is when I presented my electronic portfolio to the review panel. It was the perfect culminating activity to review and present all that I learned.
The program gave me the skills that I needed to become an effective administrator. The internship experience provided an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of special education leadership.
There are many skills important to today’s success. I would include having effective communication skills, empathy, active listening skills , awareness of the issues in the field, knowledge of best practices, networking and collaboration, problem solving, being humble, and being teachable.
My mother has inspired, motivated, encouraged, and supported me throughout my career.
There are many skills important to today’s success. I would include having effective communication skills, empathy, active listening skills , awareness of the issues in the field, knowledge of best practices, networking and collaboration, problem solving, being humble, and being teachable
I love going for a walk.
People have described me as loving, considerate, and ambitious.
I would say I’m a team player, passionate, driven, open-minded, caring, and funny.
Culturally Responsive School Leadership by Muhammed Khalifa
Maya Angelou.
I love being able to make a difference in the life of a child.
When I was younger, I wanted to be a movie star.
I have lived in nine different states.