School of Education and Human Development Teacher Leader Summit

Geeta Verma is a tenured professor of science education at the University of Colorado Denver. Her research interests focus on creating equitable, imaginative, and innovative Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning environments. Professor Verma recently served as the co-Editor in Chief for the Journal of Science Teacher Education and serves on the editorial board of multiple academic journals. Her work has been funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and other agencies. Geeta is the founder of LivedX (Lived Experiences), an Artificial Intelligence powered online at the  intersection of student success, alternative credentials, and workforce readiness. LivedX converts user experiences into credit and non-credit bearing durable skills credentials (certificates, college credits, and skills forward portfolio). Furthermore  LivedX converts these credentials into AI guided customizable profiles for success in their educational and career journeys. LivedX is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and engages in advanced research in Artificial Intelligence leading to new opportunities.

Gerardo A. Muñoz is a dedicated educator, scholar, leader, artist, and advocate for culturally sustaining education, equity, and community engagement. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Denver, his research focuses on the recruitment and retention of educators of color and community-driven praxis. As Manager of Learning & Development for Denver Public Schools, Gerardo leads initiatives to support new and aspiring teachers, with a particular emphasis on enhancing teacher diversity and fostering student-centered practices.

With over two decades of experience in education, including leadership roles at the Denver Center for International Studies, he has been instrumental in elevating student voice and leadership, as well as developing inclusive curricula. His contributions to educational policy extend to his fellowship with the National Network of State Teachers of the Year (NNSTOY), where he advocates for culturally affirming education and works with policymakers to create more equitable educational environments.

Gerardo’s work also spans higher education as a former adjunct instructor, as well as his role as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Denver’s Interdisciplinary Research Institute for the Study of (In)Equality. An award-winning educator, including being named 2021 Colorado Teacher of the Year, Gerardo continues to influence the field through his podcast Too Dope Teachers and a Mic, where he amplifies the voices and experiences of educators of color.

Esther Valdez is an Assistant Director of Implementation and Partnership supporting CEI’s school district partners and their communities in executing school transformation and strategic school improvement. Esther has 36 years of experience in education, proudly serving as a principal in schools across Jefferson County in Colorado. Esther believes her life’s work is meant to liberate students to be the best they can be by harnessing her core values of ensuring students experience connection, a strong sense of belonging, and the power of educational opportunities. Esther holds a B.A. from Texas Lutheran University, an M.A. in Early Childhood Education from the University of Colorado, an M.A. in Educational Leadership from Denver University, and an endorsement in Cultural & Linguistically Diverse Education from Regis University.

Monica Moreno-Martinez is a passionate educator dedicated to cultivating the next generation of teachers, leveraging her own journey as a first-generation college student and 20+ years of teaching experience to inspire and equip future teachers for a successful career in public education. As a graduate of the St. Vrain Valley School District, Monica now serves the same district as a site professor and Instructor for the Pathways to Teaching program, empowering high school students and paraprofessionals with the foundational and practical skills for success. She also serves as a Success Coach to provide opportunities that expand early career teachers’ views of their potential. With a Masters in Educational Equity and Cultural Diversity from the University of Colorado Boulder, Monica champions inclusion of all students from all backgrounds and abilities in the education profession, driven by the value of building relationships and creating a sense of belonging, and brings a unique and impactful perspective to the teacher leader summit.

Jody Tucker serves the University of Colorado Denver as the Associate Director of Clinical Teacher Education, where she supervises the development of preservice teachers and provides professional development for school and district leaders. Dr. Tucker oversees the NxtGEN program, a pathway to teaching designed to diversify the teaching workforce that creates paid teaching apprenticeships for undergraduate students. In 2022 NxtGEN was named one of the top seven exemplary teacher preparation programs in the U.S. by Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. She designed and instructs a three course graduate sequence for veteran teachers seeking a Mentor Endorsement through the Colorado Department of Education. Prior to coming to CU Denver, Jody was a teacher, coach, school leader, and district administrator. Her most recent PK-12 role was as Induction Coordinator for Jeffco Public Schools, a school district along the front range of Colorado that serves over 75,000 students and their families. In that position she was solely responsible for the onboarding and professional development of approximately 600 new teachers per year.