Dr. Kelly Lenarz

Dr. Kelly Lenarz ’99 has a strong desire that her students–traditional, adult, and graduate–recognize and believe that the Lord has called them to make an impact in the world through the education profession. “Whether that be in a classroom with 32 students, behind the desk in a district office, or working one on one with a student, I always remind my students that the Lord will use them.” Lenarz always considers how a student’s culture shapes the way he or she approaches learning. “Trinity’s commitment to both diversity and unity impacts greatly who ends up in my classes. From there, it is my responsibility and privilege to make each of those students feel welcomed and to provide learning experiences that meets them where they are.

What drew her to Trinity:

Lenarz earned her undergraduate degree from Trinity. “I feel very blessed to be teaching at the institution that helped prepare me to answer the call the Lord placed on my life to enter into the education profession. And that is what I love about teaching at Trinity. I’m allowed the opportunity to share my story with my students and challenge them to see how the Lord is calling them.”

Research interests:

The focus of Lenarz’s research is teacher leadership, in particular, the preparation of preservice teachers towards leadership: within and beyond the classroom.

She is also involved in a research project targeted at parent and family engagement and how that impacts K-12 students’ success in school. “As a parent of four children myself, I’m passionate about this.”

Additional  research interests have also been and still are  focused on adult learners and andragogy. “I feel it is very important to look at the changing landscape of higher education and how that involves adult learners.” She is also currently involved in a professional development model that brings educators and expert panelist together to share knowledge and learn from each other.

When she’s not teaching:

Lenarz’s husband Josh is Trinity’s assistant athletics director and serves as head women’s soccer coach. “When introducing myself to students I haven’t met or taught before, I always say, ‘My family is a Trinity family.’ My husband and I are so blessed to both be a part of the Trinity community, and my children consider Trinity their second home.” She also spends time helping her children pursue their passions in sports, theatre, and music. “Finally, I always enjoy a good book! I’m thankful for quiet moments when I can read for both professional reasons and personal enjoyment.”

Lenarz, K.A. (2020). Reimagining Education. Success in High-Need Schools Journal, 15, 29-31

Meyer, D.K & Lenarz, K.A. (2019). New Educators Want Opportunities for Teacher Leadership, Too. Association for Supervision and Curriculum Design Express, 14,(33).