Dawna Pickett
Dawna Pickett is a dedicated educator and emerging leader in the field of education, with extensive experience in both general and special education. She has spent over a decade teaching at Aurora Public Schools, where she currently serves as a General Education Math Teacher. Dawna began her career in special education, teaching at both East Palestine High School and Houston ISD, and has consistently demonstrated a commitment to supporting students with diverse learning needs. Her expertise in classroom management, lesson planning, and individualized instruction reflects a career devoted to fostering academic growth and student success.
Dawna holds a Master’s degree in Exceptionality from the University of St. Thomas (TX) and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Executive Leadership through the University of Colorado Denver. Her academic pursuits complement her practical experience, equipping her with advanced skills in educational leadership, operational strategy, and policy development. Beyond the classroom, Dawna actively contributes to her community through volunteer work with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity International and Metropolitan Ministries Homeless Shelter, reflecting her dedication to service and social impact.
Throughout her career, Dawna has blended instructional excellence with leadership development, mentoring both students and colleagues while advocating for equity and inclusion in education. Her participation in professional organizations like ASCD and the Colorado Association of School Executives underscores her commitment to lifelong learning and educational advancement. With a strong foundation in both teaching and leadership, Dawna continues to shape the next generation of learners while preparing to take on strategic roles in educational administration.
• Special Education
• Principal, Teaching
• Mathematics Teacher
• University of Colorado Denver- Ed.D.
• University of St. Thomas- Master's
• University of St. Thomas- M.Ed.
• ASCD
• Colorado Association of School Executives
• Habitat for Humanity International
• Metropolitan Ministries Homeless Shelter
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience and understanding, having faced my own challenges in school, and to my belief in building genuine relationships with students. I stay grounded in my purpose—to teach and help—earning their respect and trust rather than simply being a “buddy.”
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to use your voice, know your worth, and remember that you’re not here to be a friend—you’re here to teach. Don’t let fear hold you back, and always hold students to high expectations with love.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now are teacher retention, micromanagement, and an overemphasis on metrics rather than relationships. The opportunities lie in human-centered leadership, reconnecting education to its purpose of changing lives—an area I explore in my dissertation on school safety and equitable leadership.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are honesty, integrity, trust, and strong moral character. I am proud of my multicultural, adopted family, cherish time with my grandchildren, and am passionate about Alzheimer’s awareness, honoring the loved ones I’ve lost to the disease.