Laura began her professional teaching career in 1977 at Santa Teresa High School in San Jose, CA. Since that time, Laura taught Speech, English, English Language Learners, Reading, Drama, and coached forensics. Besides teaching, Laura also served as English Department chairperson, Professional Development Coordinator, and Associate Principal of Staff Development and School Reform. In addition to her secondary experiences, Laura has taught many courses at the university level including seminary.

Currently, Laura is on loan from her district to work for UCSC’s New Teacher Center. Her work involves coaching and mentoring new teachers while also building educational systems to support high quality teaching.

Laura received her Doctorate in Education, Ed.D. from University of Southern California in 1999. She also holds three master’s degrees: General Ministry (Western Seminary; 1996), Communication Studies (SJSU; 1991), Educational Counseling (SJSU; 1990). Her B.A. was in Speech Communication. Laura’s published works range in topics from communication education, professional development for teachers, and human performance issues. Laura has published numerous professional articles in the areas of education, mentoring, professional development, communication education, human performance, and school reform. Her most recent co-authored book (Spring, 2004) was a guide for mentor teachers.