Dr. Ferrara is Professor Emerita in the School of Education at Manhattanville College. She is known a nationally and internationally in community schools and school/ university partnership arenas. She is a member of the New York State Community School Network, University Assisted Community School Network, University Of Central Florida Community School Advisory Board and the Publications Co-chair for the National Association of School University Partnerships. She is a published author of books, numerous articles, book chapters, and blogs. Dr. Ferrara is the recipient of awards that demonstrate significant contribution to the field of school/ university partnerships and ongoing collaborative research. Her breath of experience provides a unique lens to help schools engage in transformational practices to improve stakeholders’ outcomes.
During her tenure at the college she served as the associate dean of undergraduate programs and a professor. In these roles she taught graduate and undergraduates courses, designed curriculum, advised students and worked with local school districts to create school/university partnerships to support the needs of local schools.
Prior to joining the Manhattanville faculty, she held positions as a general and special education teacher, a literacy coach, and school administrator for the New York City Department of Education.
She also served as the Chief Program Officer for the New York State Eastern Technical Assistance Center for Community Schools.
JoAnne is the president of Strategies for Whole Child Education and Community- School Partners LLC. She provides evidence-based strategies to improve student outcomes and build schools’ capacity to engage in partnerships that support the community school strategy, respond to school needs, and expand teachers’ professional growth.
Dr. Ferrara is a published author of books, numerous articles, book chapters, and blogs. The focus of her work includes Community Schools, Professional Development Schools, Teacher Development & Educator Preparation.
