Tanya Flushman, Ph.D.
program coordinator, Full Professor
Tanya Flushman, Ph.D. is a passionate literacy educator and professor. With expertise in early childhood language and literacy development, she helps future and current teachers translate research into meaningful classroom practice. Her courses inspire educators to think critically, teach creatively, and lead with equity.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Flushman is a leader in the field of literacy education. As Co-Director of the CSU Center for the Advancement of Reading and Writing, she collaborates with faculty across the CSU system to strengthen literacy instruction statewide. A former elementary teacher in both California and Mexico, she brings a global perspective and a deep understanding of the teaching profession.
Dr. Flushman’s impact extends far beyond campus—through her involvement in state-level initiatives, grant-funded research, and her appointment to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing’s SB488 Literacy Workgroup. Students who study with Dr. Flushman benefit from her warmth, expertise, and dedication to helping educators grow as confident, reflective, and equity-driven leaders in literacy.
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Jess Jensen, Ph.D.
associate professor
Jess Jensen, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Elementary Mathematics Education at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Since earning her Ph.D. from the University of Iowa in 2017, she has been passionate about transforming the way future educators approach math in the classroom to make it a more relevant and creative subject.
Her research brings a dynamic lens to equitable teaching, empowering preservice teachers to inspire deep, meaningful mathematical thinking in young learners. Dr. Jensen also leads innovative studies on how elementary students and undergraduate mentors discover and grow their STEM identities through immersive experiences in K–6 STEM and makerspace classrooms.
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Briana Ronan, Ed.D.
associate professor
Briana Ronan, Ph.D. brings a wealth of expertise and passion to the Multiple Subject Credential Program and SABE (Spanish Authorization for Bilingual Educators) Programs. With a doctorate in education from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a deep commitment to supporting bilingual education, Ronan teaches courses on language acquisition and Latinx experiences in U.S. schools. She is also a key player in the implementation of California’s English Language Development standards. Her research on multimodal literacy practices and technology initiatives for academic language development reflects her dedication to shaping the next generation of educators.
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Katie Paulding, Ed.D.
Lecturer
Katie Paulding, Ed.D brings her passion for teaching and deep expertise in mathematics education to the School of Education at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. With an Ed.D. from Boise State University and years of experience teaching in the Santa Maria-Bonita School District, Dr. Paulding connects real classroom experience with innovative teacher preparation. Her research in pre-service teacher education and mathematics instruction shapes engaging, hands-on learning experiences for her students. Whether guiding future teachers through Cal Poly’s MSTEP or Curriculum & Instruction programs, Dr. Paulding is committed to helping every aspiring educator grow with confidence, purpose, and creativity.
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Renae Mattson, Ph.D.
lecturer
Renae Mattson, Ph.D. brings more than 15 years of classroom experience to her role as lecturer and university supervisor, blending deep practical knowledge with a passion for inspiring the next generation of teachers. After earning her Ph.D. from the University of California, Santa Barbara, she continued to make an impact in elementary education before returning “home” to Cal Poly—where her teaching journey first began.
Known for her warmth, mentorship, and dedication to lifelong learning, Dr. Mattson is continually expanding her expertise through professional development workshops and academic book circles. Most recently, she was selected for the prestigious, year-long ACUE Course in Effective Teaching Practices—an opportunity that reflects her ongoing commitment to excellence in education and to empowering future teachers to do the same.
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Megan Guise, Ph.D.
English content Advisor, full professor
Megan Guise is a Professor of Education and advisor to the English credential program at Cal Poly. Since joining the faculty in 2009, she has taught in the Single Subject credential program and Curriculum and Instruction master’s programs, while also mentoring future educators through clinical supervision and master’s projects. A former high school English teacher, Megan brings both practical experience and deep academic insight to her work.
Megan’s research focuses on supporting new teachers, effective coteaching, and meaningful feedback in the classroom. Her work has been published in top journals, such as The Journal of Teacher Education and Teaching and Teacher Education, and reflects her commitment to preparing educators who lead with purpose, equity, and impact.
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