Dr. Kristen Arnold is an Assistant Professor of School Psychology at Gonzaga University, where she teaches in both the School Psychology and Educational Leadership programs. Her work focuses on inclusive education, systems-level change, and the implementation of high-leverage practices to improve outcomes for students with disabilities and other diverse learning needs. Dr. Arnold brings over 20 years of experience across P–12 and higher education settings, including prior faculty and professional roles at Arizona State University and the University of Kansas, as well as extensive experience as an inclusive and special education teacher in public schools and Department of Defense schools overseas. Her work bridges research, leadership, and practice through close partnerships with schools and districts, supporting educators and school leaders in developing inclusive, data-informed, and culturally responsive systems through collaborative and continuous improvement frameworks. As the parent of a child with intensive support needs, Dr. Arnold also brings a family-centered perspective to her teaching, research, and community-engaged work. She is deeply committed to helping schools and leaders move beyond compliance toward meaningful, sustainable inclusion that builds educator capacity and improves access, belonging, and outcomes for all learners.
