Krishawna Goins, a graduate of the Penn State College of Education, has exemplified leadership in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in her career as an educator. After earning her bachelor’s degree in elementary and early childhood education with a minor in education policy studies, Goins continued her education at Penn State as a distance learner, obtaining a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction with a focus on social studies education in August 2023. Her master’s work centered on democracy in education, anti-oppressive social studies, and project-based learning to cultivate engaged citizens.
In her role as a first-grade teacher at Goshen Post Elementary School in Virginia, Goins has been appointed as the equity lead for the school. She supports teachers through professional development, curriculum creation, and coaching to create culturally responsive learning environments. Her work at Penn State, particularly with the Office of Education and Social Equity (OESE), has equipped her with the tools to promote educational equity and inclusion in her school community.
Goshen Post Elementary School, part of Loudoun County Public Schools in northern Virginia, serves a diverse student population. As the equity lead, Goins has been instrumental in implementing interventions to support teachers and foster excellence through educational equity. Her commitment to creating inclusive learning environments has set a precedent for other schools in the county.
In addition to her work in education, Goins is a co-founder of Women X Meta, a web3 startup focused on building financial and technological literacy for women. She conducts „Playshops“ around the country to empower women in using technology for innovation and ethical practices. Goins‘ dedication to education extends beyond the classroom, as she strives to equip women of all generations with the skills and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape.
Despite her professional accomplishments, Goins maintains a sense of fun and creativity in her work. Known as the „Disney teacher“ at her school, she infuses her classroom with a love for all things Disney. Her internship at the Walt Disney Company’s theatrical division during her undergraduate years further solidified her passion for the brand. Goins‘ playful approach to education adds a touch of magic to her teaching style and fosters a positive learning environment for her students.
As an active member of the College of Education’s Alumni Society Board, Goins remains connected to Penn State and continues to contribute to the college’s mission of preparing the next generation of educators. Her journey from student to leader in DEIB exemplifies the transformative impact of a Penn State education and the ongoing commitment to creating inclusive and equitable learning environments for all students.