Dr. Tony Castro is an associate professor of social studies education in the Department of Learning, Teaching & Curriculum. His research interests center on the preparation of teachers for culturally diverse contexts and urban schools, with specific attention to the teaching of critical multicultural citizenship, democratic teacher education, and teaching practices that foster equity and social justice. Prior to serving as a professor, Dr. Castro taught in urban schools and worked in a variety of outreach and educational programs for low-income and minority populations. He currently teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in diversity, social studies education, curriculum, teacher education, and qualitative research methods. He also conducts workshops for educators about diversity, civic practices, and teacher development in local area schools and here at the University of Missouri.

• MPER Early Career Scholars Program
• Faculty Collaborations
• Letters of Support 
• Mental Health Leadership Academy

Ms. Kimberley Nuetzmann is the Director of the Office of Clinical Experiences and Partnerships in the College of Education & Human Development. In this role, she collaborates with partner districts across the state to place teacher candidates with strong mentor teachers. She hires key stakeholders to oversee the progress of teacher candidates and trains them in mentoring techniques and systems of support. Ms. Nuetzmann visits schools regularly and monitors the progress of hundreds of teacher candidates annually. Prior to joining the College, Ms. Nuetzmann served twenty-seven years in Columbia Public Schools as a teacher, Teaching Fellowship Program mentor, professional development specialist, and facilitator of the district-wide new teacher induction program. In addition, Ms. Nuetzmann was a consultant at the Heart of Missouri RPDC and facilitated the regional DESE Leadership Academy and Teacher Academy for eight years. She has facilitated hundreds of professional development sessions throughout the state with an emphasis in leadership development, professional learning communities, Cognitive Coaching, effective mentoring techniques, and high leverage teaching practices. Ms. Nuetzmann collaborates with DESE on multiple initiatives to support educators. She has been a member of MPER as a P-12 practitioner and College representative for over ten years.

• Partner District Membership
• Professional Development for Mentor Teachers of the MPER Early Career Scholars Program
• MPER communications of CEHD opportunities to partner school representatives
  • Sent twice a semester (except summer)
    • Fall (September and November)
    • Spring (February and April)
    • Summer (June)