Dr. Ashley A. Atkinson joined the faculty at Barton College in 2025 and currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Teacher Education. A proud alumna of Barton, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, and a Master of Education before completing her Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning Sciences with a concentration in Literacy and English Language Arts Education at North Carolina State University.
She is a licensed K–6 educator in both North Carolina and Virginia and has taught at the elementary and secondary levels in public and private schools, both in the United States and abroad. Her teaching and research interests include literacy instruction, trauma-informed practices, AI integration in K–12 settings, and support for first-generation college students.
Dr. Atkinson brings extensive experience in teacher preparation, including coursework in curriculum and instruction, the science of reading, and classroom management. Prior to returning to Barton, she served as a professor, university supervisor, and interim program coordinator at Ferrum College. In May 2025, she was honored with the Sam Lionberger, Jr. Trustee Award by the Ferrum College Board of Trustees for exceptional contributions to faculty and staff development.
She is committed to preparing future educators to meet the needs of diverse learners, to think critically about the evolving role of education, and to foster a love of lifelong learning in both teachers and students.