About

Michele L. Stites, Ed.D., is an associate professor in the Department of Education at UMBC. She holds a B.S. in elementary education from the University of Maryland College Park (1997), an M.Ed. in special education from the University of Maryland College Park (2003), and her Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction (Early Childhood Education/Special Education) from The George Washington University (2012).

Dr. Stites was classroom teacher for ten years (K-5 and special education) and has taught in multiple states throughout the US. Most recently she served as the Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) Specialist for a large school district in Maryland. During her years as a classroom teacher she focused on designing instruction that met the needs of all learners, utilizing embedded learning opportunities, and play-based learning. As the ECI specialist she mentored new teachers, wrote curriculum, and assisted in IEP development and execution.

Research interests

My research examines inclusive early childhood mathematics education and focuses on the themes of: 1) developing mathematics opportunities for all young children, regardless of developmental level and 2) examining inclusive instructional strategies for children with disabilities in general education classrooms.; 3) inclusive STEM

Teaching interests

Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Mathematics

Education

  • EDD, Curriculum and Instruction/Special EducationThe George Washington University (2012)
    Early Childhood Teachers' Perceptions of the EducationalNeeds of Military Dependent Children
  • MA, Special EducationUniversity of Maryland College Park (2003)
    Classroom Management in Inclusive Settings
  • BS, Elementary EducationUniversity of Maryland College Park (1997)