Instructional Leadership
Strengthen the ability to design, support, and evaluate learning experiences that are equitable, measurable, and responsive to student needs.
Joshua D. Turner
A professional collection of academic preparation, educational leadership growth, applied benchmark work, capstone evidence, and references.
"Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try."
John F. Kennedy
LLearn VValue LLead
Thank you for taking the time to review my professional portfolio. This site represents my continued development as an educator and leader, highlighting the knowledge, skills, and professional commitments I have strengthened throughout my academic and professional journey.
I bring over 9 years of experience in special education, including 4 years as a special education teacher. In addition, I have spent nine years coaching football, basketball, and baseball, experiences that have strengthened my leadership, teamwork, and ability to motivate and support diverse learners both in and beyond the classroom.
A commitment to student success, ethical practice, collaboration, and continuous improvement guides my work. Across each section, you will find evidence of reflective learning, professional growth, and readiness to apply research-informed practice in meaningful educational settings.
Professional Goals
Goals = Growth
Data-Informed Practice
Use assessment, feedback, and evidence of learning to guide instructional decisions and improve outcomes.
Professional Collaboration
Build productive relationships with colleagues, families, and community partners to support meaningful student achievement.
Reflective Growth
Continue developing as a reflective practitioner through research, professional learning, and intentional self-assessment.
Resume
Experience
Academic Degrees
02/2021 - 05/2026
Liberty University
Master's Degree: Special Education: General Curriculum K-12.
- 3.7 GPA.
-
Kappa Delta Pi, 2026-Present.
10/2019 - 10/2021
Western Governors University
Bachelor of Arts, Educational Studies in Mild to Moderate Exceptionalities Special Education.
Work History
09/2022 - 09/2026
SECEP - Southeastern Cooperative Educational Program
Special Education Teacher. Teach students using VESOL and SOL curriculum, write IEPs, facilitate meetings, and maintain data collection for student progress and support planning.
02/2017 - 2026
Southampton High School
Coaching Experience
- JV Football Head Coach and Varsity Assistant, 02/2017 - 02/2023.
- Basketball JV Head Coach, 02/2020 - 02/2026; JV Tri-Rivers Champion, 2024-2025.
- Assistant Baseball Coach, 2023 - 2026; part of three Tri-Rivers District Championship teams.
Awards & Recognition
2024 - 2025
SECEP Western Tidewater ASP/EBICS Teacher of the Year
Recognized for service, instructional commitment, and support for students with exceptional needs.
2023 - 2026
Founder, Indian Spectrum Connection
Founded an initiative supporting connection, inclusion, and community for students and families.
Benchmarks
Evidence of academic and professional progress
Benchmark 1
Functional Behavior Assessment artifact focused on identifying student behavior patterns, instructional supports, and evidence-based intervention planning.
Download Functional Behavior AssessmentBenchmark 2
Personal Philosophy Paper - EDUC 630 artifact focused on technology integration, differentiated instruction, and support for diverse learners in general and special education settings.
Download Philosophy PaperBenchmark 3
EDUC 630 Technology Lesson Demonstration focused on World History I, special education, digital citizenship, and technology-integrated student application activities.
Download Technology LessonCapstone
LVLUP Initiative
This embedded capstone presentation highlights the project focus, supporting evidence, implementation approach, and reflection on professional impact.
Recommendations / References
Professional references
Sharone Bailey
Southampton High School Assistant Principal and Varsity Basketball Coach
Samantha Dutcher
SECEP Education Specialist
Will Melbye
Chief Operations Officer (COO) and Coordinator of Auxiliary Services & Transportation
Alger Nichols
Virtual Educational Specialist
Travis Parker
Director of Upward Bound at Paul D. Camp Community College
Mary Ann Ruppe
SECEP Principal and Skills, Inc. Pre-ETS Coordinator and Job Coach
Melissa Walter
SECEP Principal
Austin Whitehead
SECEP Teacher Specialist
Recommendation Excerpt
Recognized for creating an innovative classroom, incorporating technology, and demonstrating strong classroom management skills. Joshua brings a positive student-centered approach, a positive building presence, leadership qualities, and a versatile approach that supports an equitable, inclusive classroom environment for gifted students and Tier 1-3 learners.