Alexandra Richmond

Welcome to my website!

I am a PhD Candidate in Special Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I received my B.A. from Clark Atlanta University and M.S. from Purdue University. Prior to my PhD program, I worked for Chicago Public Schools as a special education teacher, case manager, and teacher coach at an elementary school. I attribute my success in the classroom to my ability to build positive and lasting relationships with students and their families. My practical experience led to my passion for equity within special education.

My research interests center on the intersection of special education, race, and equity. More specifically, my research focuses on equity in special education hiring practices within urban school districts and culturally responsive teacher preparation and training. My dissertation research examines how Black teachers understand and experience trauma and trauma-informed care, in order to develop more culturally responsive trauma-informed training for schools.

Outside of my professional and academic endeavors, I enjoy traveling, spending time with family, and trying new restaurants.