Dr. Kari Koshiol

Dr. Kari Koshiol (she/her), Acting Director

Dr. Kari Koshiol has devoted her career to young people. For 18 years, she taught high school English. Her goal as a teacher was to listen to her students, create spaces for learning that reflected their interests and needs, and bring research into the classroom. This meant teaching students how to do research as well as conducting school-wide research to learn about the student experience. Using this data, Kari spearheaded professional learning for the faculty and staff and enriched her own understanding of how young people learn. Her desire to improve the educational lives of young people is what led Kari to earn her Ph.D. in Curriculum, Instruction, and the Science of Learning from the University at Buffalo, New York. She focused her research on creating classroom environments that foster belonging and autonomy. Today, she remains connected to the classroom through Springtide’s work with schools.

Working for Springtide in a variety of roles has made Kari an expert on how Springtide can support organizations and adults in learning about young people and helping them to thrive. She enjoys sharing Springtide’s research and expertise and likes thinking creatively about the methodologies that best serve the needs of those hoping to partner with Springtide. Kari is also an integral part of Springtide’s belonging work.

Kari’s favorite pastimes include being active outdoors with her husband, curling up on a comfy chair reading just about any novel she can find, and buying gifts for her more than a dozen nieces and nephews. 

Photo by Deja Hodges Photography.