Dr. Yolanda Shields(Ed.D.)

Dr. Yolanda Shields is more than an expert in education—she’s a passionate advocate for students and the teachers who support them. With 17 years of experience in special education, she has dedicated her career to empowering educators, improving student outcomes, and fostering inclusive learning environments.

Her vision of the educator she wanted to become took shape in eighth grade when a classmate introduced her to volunteering with a student who is deaf. This opportunity not only deepened her commitment to education, but also fostered a sense of belonging through forming meaningful connections and friendships with her peers.

As a specialist in literacy, mathematics, and instructional strategies for students with diverse learning needs in grades K-5, Dr. Shields helps parents gain practical strategies to help their child at home—whether it’s multisensory reading techniques, structured phonics interventions, or knowing how to advocate for school-based supports. She helps parents decode their child’s struggles, recognize early warning signs of reading difficulties, and ask the right questions—such as whether their child needs a structured literacy program, additional assessments, or accommodations like audiobooks or assistive technology.

As an Instructional Excellence RAiSE Coach (IERC), Dr. Shields helps educators strengthen their practice and tap into their intrinsic motivation—the very focus of her doctoral research. Beyond the classroom, she’s a strong advocate for teacher retention and burnout prevention, equipping schools with sustainable strategies to keep educators engaged. She believes that when teachers feel confident and supported, their impact is limitless.

Warm, engaging, and deeply committed, Dr. Shields brings both expertise and heart to every conversation—whether coaching parents and educators, tutoring students, or advising schools.