Thomas M. Van Soelen

Thomas Van Soelen, Ph.D. biography

Developing adults has characterized the work of Thomas Van Soelen, Ph.D. for over a decade. His work in the areas of instructional strategies, learning communities, critical friendship, leadership development, and teacher evaluation are known in several states and countries. His collaborative practices, quick wit, and deep experience make for an engaging and meaningful learning experience. Prior to his full-time work as a professional developer and leadership coach (www.vansoelenassociates.com), Thomas worked in multiple states and in public and private schools, teaching every grade level pre-Kindergarten through grade 12 at some point in his career. In addition, he prepared undergraduates at the University of Georgia and conducts both face-to-face and online courses at the graduate level for three institutions. His most recent school district leadership position was functioning as the Associate Superintendent in the City Schools of Decatur, Georgia, a post he held for eight years.

Van Soelen is a member of national organizations (AASA, Learning Forward, ASCD) and was elected to serve on the national board of The School Reform Initiative. Several journals, periodicals, and organizations publish his writing: Journal of Staff Development, Principal Leadership, Education Week, School Administrator, NAESP, National School Board Journal, and Phi Delta Kappan. A full-length book, Crafting the Feedback Teachers Need and Deserve: A Guide for Leaders (Routledge Press), is the chronicle of a five-year teacher quality initiative he led in his last district.

Dr. Van Soelen holds bachelor’s degrees in Elementary Education, Music Education, and Vocal Performance from Dordt University (Iowa), a master’s degree in elementary education and an educational specialist degree in educational leadership from Florida Atlantic University, and a doctorate degree in elementary education from the University of Georgia.