In 2005, Kathy Wiebke was brought on as the Executive Director to create a new vision and direction for the Arizona K12Center. Prior to joining the Center, she was the Deputy Associate Superintendent for Highly Qualified Professionals at the Arizona Department of Education, principal and classroom teacher. Kathy Wiebke earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education from Arizona State University and a Master of Arts degree in elementary education from Northern Arizona University. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy in educational leadership and policy studies from Arizona State University, focusing on quality teaching and teacher leadership in urban schools. Kathy was Arizona’s first National Board Certified Teacher with a Middle Childhood Generalist Certificate. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. She was a member of the NEA’s Commission on Effective Teachers and Teaching and NCATE’s Blue Ribbon Panel on Clinical Preparation and Partnerships for Improved Student Learning. As a native Arizonan, Kathy has spent almost her entire life in Arizona’s public schools as either a learner or a teacher, and sometimes both. She cares passionately about this state and wants its children to have the same great education she received at all levels. You can visit azk12.org to learn about Arizona K12 Center and the events we have to offer.