Keitha Denise Burnett, Ph.D
Dr. Keitha Burnett is an accomplished educator, researcher, and advocate who has dedicated her life to using writing, research, and action as tools for self-expression and social change. A native of rural northeast North Carolina, Dr. Burnett’s journey from modest beginnings to academic and professional excellence exemplifies perseverance and purpose. She holds a Ph.D. in Public Administration from Florida International University, where she also engaged in leadership and service through organizations such as the American Society for Public Administration and Pi Delta Kappa. Early in her career, she gained valuable experience as a legislative intern in Bismarck, North Dakota, and as an intern with the United States Coast Guard on Governor’s Island—experiences that shaped her understanding of governance, civic duty, and public service.
Over her extensive teaching career in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Dr. Burnett served as a Social Studies Department Chair, teaching a wide range of courses from exceptional education to advanced placement. In 2005, she founded Lawrence Academy, an independent charter school established in honor of her parents, serving primarily a migrant and disadvantaged population. Under her leadership, the school became the first charter institution in South Dade to be accredited by SACS, achieving significant success with over 70% of graduates pursuing college education. Despite the challenges of under-enrollment that led to the school’s closure after nearly a decade, Dr. Burnett transformed her experiences into a forthcoming book, The Last 180 Days, chronicling the lessons and resilience drawn from her time in school leadership.
Today, Dr. Burnett continues to shape young minds as a Social Science Faculty member and DEI Coordinator at Gulliver Preparatory School in Miami, where she teaches courses such as Women’s Studies, Government, and Economics. Her approach centers on empowering students through research, critical thinking, and civic engagement, exemplified by her student-led symposiums on contemporary social issues. Beyond education, she is active in nonprofit and community initiatives, including the NAACP, the Community Scientific Advisory Board at the University of Miami, and Ebenezer Christian Academy. With ongoing projects including two upcoming books and the launch of Black History lectures and tours, Dr. Burnett remains deeply committed to advancing diversity, equity, and historical awareness through education and storytelling.
• Florida International University - Ph.D
• Guest Speaker, Florida Memorial College
• Guest Speaker, The North Dade Regional Library
• Outstanding Service in Education
• High School Social Studies Teacher of the Year
• Nominated and selected for the State Instructional Materials Evaluation Committee
• Who's Who Among Teachers
• Selected " Most Significant Teacher" by Valedictorian
• Teacher of Year
• Selected by " Most Significant Teacher" by Salutatorian
• Golden Chain Honor Society
• Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honor Society at UND
• Finalist for Social Studies Teacher of the Year
• Lawrence Academy Middle (6-8) recognized for academic achievement 2008, 2009, 2010
• National Board Certified Teacher
• Selected Most Significant Teacher by Valedictorian
• Glendale Baptist Church
• Parent-Teacher Association
• Governing Board
• Consultant
• Chairperson Education Committee