Our Associates

Michael Evans, EdD, brings over 28 years of experience as a classroom teacher, school counselor, building-level leader, and district-level leader.As a practitioner, he has led the transition to standards-based learning in multiple districts and continues to support schools and districts across the United States as an associate with Marzano Resources.

Greg Figenser brings over 25 years of diverse experience in education, having served in the roles of district professional development leader, curriculum director, principal, and classroom teacher. Over the past decade, Greg has shared his expertise by presenting nationwide to school administrators, as well as novice and experienced educators, providing the tools and strategies necessary for success in today's evolving educational environment.

Melissa Fike is a nationally recognized mathematics educator and instructional leader with over 15 years of experience. She specializes in proficiency scales, teacher development, and data-driven practices, currently serving as a district math coordinator and frequent educational conference presenter.

Douglas Finn III has been an active participant in the personalized competency-based education (PCBE) community since 2004. Through his years of teaching in Alaska and Maine, Doug has taught all grade levels. From that hands-on work within PCBE, he transitioned to supporting students, teachers, and administrators as a mentor, instructional and administrative coach, and associate who has presented all over the country and the world.

David Franklin, EdD, is an author, professor of education, and consultant and has worked with school leaders and teachers around the country in the areas of school vision, instruction, technology, and collaboration.

Michelle Freeman leader currently serving as the principal of Lehigh Acres Middle School. Her leadership focuses on developing organizations that support student success by enabling faculty and staff to collaborate toward maintaining a school climate that fosters student engagement and growth.

Shelley Gies, EdD, is a full-time Marzano associate. She is the former director of curriculum and instruction and a former building-level principal in central Indiana. Shelley also spent 23 years as a classroom teacher, serving most grades K–6.

Kathy Tuchman Glass is an accomplished author, consultant, and former classroom teacher with more than twenty-five years of experience in education.

Jeni Gotto, EdD, is the Superintendent of Westminster Public Schools and a visionary leader with over 25 years of transformative experience in education. Renowned for her pioneering work in Competency-Based Education (CBE), she oversees the nation’s largest district-wide PK–12 implementation, blending rigor with personalized pathways to success.

Marisa Hafley, coordinator of talent development at Region 9 Education Service Center in Wichita Falls, Texas, specializes in supporting campuses and districts with professional development opportunities, school improvement efforts, and the Marzano High Reliability Schools framework.