Our Associates

Dr. Hawar Khalandi is an experienced educator and leader with a passion for creating inclusive, student-centered learning environments and has led impactful work aligning instruction, assessment, and wellness to empower all learners.

Dr. Brian J. Kosena, EdD, serves as the chief learning officer for Westminster Public Schools in Westminster, Colorado. Previously, he was the founding principal of John E. Flynn A Marzano Academy, a preK–8 school of innovation within Westminster Public Schools in Colorado..

Erin Lacina serves as the director of professional learning and operations at a regional education agency. She is committed to fostering close partnerships with schools to enhance student learning and promote continuous system growth. Specializing in standards-based learning, Erin has successfully led framework implementations at the school, district, regional, and state levels. Her previous experience as an instructional coach and classroom teacher provides her with a unique perspective on professional learning and its practical application. Erin holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Moorhead State University and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the College of St. Catherine.

Nicole Lambson has spent the past 19 years as a middle school teacher, instructional coach and administrator for Farmington Municipal Schools. Nicole is the executive director of curriculum and works to improve student outcomes through the High Reliability Schools framework, the New Art and Science of Teaching, and the Critical Concepts.

Dr. Nathan D. Lang-Raad, EdD, is a visionary educator, international speaker, and prolific author dedicated to transforming mathematics education and instructional practices. With a rich background spanning curriculum development, school leadership, and educational technology, Dr. Lang-Raad brings a unique perspective to his work.

Maria Lantz, EdD, is the director of curriculum and instruction in the Ottumwa Community School District. Dr. Lantz works to challenge the status quo and promote equitable outcomes for kids through safe, supportive, collaborative learning environments in student-centered, rigorous classrooms.

Sandy Ledwell, EdD, spent over 25 years as a teacher, teacher leader, instructional coach, and state department administrator, working across grades preK–12. Now, she enjoys working with teacher candidates in instructional methods courses.

Lynn Leslie is an elementary school principal in Casper, Wyoming. Throughout her 20 year career she has demonstrated a passion for sharing the impact of standards-referenced education with teachers and school leaders to support lasting change in the education system.

Michael Lynch has established himself as a distinguished leader with over 30 years of dedicated experience in education. He has served as a teacher, coach, principal, academic director, and executive, impacting diverse school communities across multiple Colorado districts. As a trainer for McREL’s Balanced Leadership program and an educator at local colleges, Michael guides principals, new teachers, and mentors in fostering effective educational environments for student success. Specializing in competency-based education and High Reliability Schools, his expertise drives excellence and innovation in education.

Dr. Melanie Lewis Magee served in education for 26 years at various levels starting as an elementary school teacher. After several roles in district administration, including adult and parent education, Dr. Magee moved into campus leadership. She was an assistant principal and later an associate principal at a high school culminating in four years as a middle school principal. Dr. Magee led Curriculum and Instruction for a large district and recently served as Deputy Superintendent for a small rural district. Her passion is coaching administrators and helping teachers be the best versions of themselves for students.