Our Associates

James Neihof, EdD, is the director of deeper learning for the Green River Region Educational Cooperative in Bowling Green, Kentucky. He works directly with district and school leaders as a leadership coach, mentor, and professional learning facilitator.

Beth Nelson is the director of teaching and learning at Norfolk Public Schools in Nebraska. She has been a part of educational leadership for over 30 years and is passionate about supporting high-quality education for all students. Beth has implemented, supported and sustained professional learning communities, guaranteed and viable curriculum, effective teaching in classrooms and standards-based grading.

Debbie Nicolai has served as an elementary teacher, instructional coach, elementary principal, and director of curriculum, instruction, and innovation. Having been both a school and a district leader, she has in-depth and firsthand experience with High Reliability Schools.

Lisa Nieder was a high school math teacher for 25 years and then secondary mathematics curriculum coordinator for Columbia Public Schools for four years. She currently serves as director of board development for the Missouri School Boards Association. During her time with CPS, she wrote and edited proficiency scales, transitioned to Standards Referenced Grading in her classroom, and then trained math teachers district-wide to do the same.

Whitney Owens, MEd, has served as an elementary classroom teacher, middle school principal, head of schools, university professor, and professional development facilitator over a 17-year career.

Denise Phillips-Luster, EdD, is the principal of Hancock Creek Elementary in North Fort Myers, Florida. Throughout her career, she has provided professional development for adult learners, facilitated interest-based problem-solving processes, and demonstrated strong organizational leadership and managerial skills.

Kristin Poage is a contributing author and presenter for Marzano Resources. She is a middle school principal, professional development presenter, and district leader. Her career in education has led her to work in areas of student engagement, grading, instruction, and leadership.

Don Porter is a practicing learner-leader who currently serves as a middle school administrator. He has served students and worked to foster a culture of learning and success in schools for over 13 years. Don has experience implementing the School Wellness Wheel and gets excited about working with people to achieve at high levels.

Heather Potter currently serves as principal of Knox Middle School in the San Diego USD. Within the previous four years, Heather led Knox out of its state designation as a program improvement school by implementing interventions from Marzano Resources.

Doug Rigby, EdM, is the assistant superintendent of Uinta County School District #1. With 28 years’ experience, he was previously a teacher, coach, and principal. He is passionate about creating an environment where all students learn at high levels.