Strategies used by academic coaches in the online classroom to foster connection and success for students

Author's Biography

Nicole C. Letchworth Dr Nicole C. Letchworth is an Assistant Professor in the Special Education programme within the Department of Education Studies at Stephen F. Austin State University. With a career in education spanning 27 years, Nicole brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the preparation of future educators. Her journey began as a paraprofessional, a role that sparked her deep commitment to inclusive education and laid the foundation for her transition into teaching and eventually higher education. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from George Mason University and went on to complete her Doctorate of Education at the University of Southern Mississippi. Throughout her career, Nicole has remained passionate about equipping future teachers with the knowledge, skills and mindset needed to effectively support all learners. Her work is grounded in advocacy for individuals with disabilities and a belief in the transformative power of education when it is inclusive, equitable and student-centred. Nicole continues to inspire the next generation of educators through research-informed instruction, mentorship and a steadfast commitment to promoting access and opportunity for every student.

Summer Koltonski Dr Summer Koltonski is an Associate Professor of Education Studies at Stephen F. Austin State University, where she specialises in preparing future educators to work with exceptional children. She teaches undergraduate courses on teaching students with disabilities and graduate courses in assessment, equipping educators with the skills necessary to create inclusive and effective learning environments. Summer earned her BS in kinesiology and MEd in special education from Stephen F. Austin State University, where she also obtained her Educational Diagnostician certification. She later pursued her PhD in school psychology from the same institution, deepening her expertise in educational assessment, intervention and behavioural strategies. A certified teacher in both Texas and Louisiana, she also holds national certifications as an Educational Diagnostician and School Psychologist. Her research focuses on teaching exceptional children, effective instructional strategies, applied behaviour analysis and assessment. She is dedicated to improving education practices through evidence-based approaches and the development of inclusive learning frameworks.

Lindsey Kennon J. Lindsey Kennon, EdD is an Assistant Professor of Deaf Education and Assistant Chair of Special Education within the Department of Education Studies at Stephen F. Austin State University. Her primary role is serving as faculty, teaching courses in the Deaf Education educator preparation programme. A dedicated teacher-educator, Lindsey is passionate about ensuring equitable education for d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing students and students with disabilities, often overlooked and marginalised. Lindsey advocates for inclusive practices that address the unique needs of all learners.