OUR TEAM

Dr. Carol Lippert

Dr. Carol Lippert is the Assistant Vice President for K12 Outreach and Support at Grand Canyon Education, where she leads professional development and student engagement initiatives. She also serves as an adjunct professor for the GCU College of Education. Previously, she served as Associate Superintendent at the Arizona Department of Education and as Principal of a top-performing inner-city high school. In 2006, she was named Assistant Principal of the Year for Arizona by the National Association for Secondary School Principals. With over 30 years in education, she holds a B.S. in Biology, a B.A. in Secondary Education, a Master’s in Educational Leadership, and a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership. LinkedIn

Carolyn Mann

Carolyn Mann is the Executive Director for the K12 Outreach and Support at Grand Canyon Education. She also works as an adjunct professor in the College of Education. Carolyn has over 30 years of experience in education as a classroom teacher, a district literacy coach, and professional development consultant. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education with a Minor in Child Development and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction with an Emphasis in Reading. She is currently a doctoral candidate at Grand Canyon University researching teacher retention in rural schools in Arizona. LinkedIn

Marni Landry

Marni Landry is the K12 Senior Project Director of STEM Outreach for Grand Canyon Education and an adjunct professor in GCU’s College of Education. With over 24 years in education, her expertise includes Project-Based Learning, STEM & technology integration, Science Standards, and Differentiation. Marni presents at international, national, and local science and teaching conferences. She has received multiple awards, including AZ HS Science Teacher of the Year, AZ Tech Council Teacher of the Year, and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. Before GCU, Marni taught science at Paradise Valley High School and was an adjunct professor at the U of Arizona. She holds a B.S in Biology and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. LinkedIn

Jeff Parsons

Jeff Parsons is the Project Director for the K12 Outreach and Support at Grand Canyon Education.  He is a dedicated educator with extensive experience in both public and private school settings. He has served as a government/economics teacher, several Assistant Principal roles, Director of Curriculum, and High School Principal. Jeff enjoys a strong background in instructional leadership, data-driven instruction, and staff development. He is passionate about mentoring future educators, school counselors, and teachers. Jeff holds a B.S. in American Political Studies and Master’s in Educational Leadership. He enjoys spending time with his family exploring the great state of Arizona. LinkedIn

Cece Bosma

Cecelia Bosma is the K12 Professional Development Manager for K12 Outreach and Support at Canyon Professional Development. With 20 years of experience in both Christian and public education, primarily with K-8 students, she brings a deep understanding of classroom dynamics. Cecelia’s expertise in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and restorative practices is grounded in her years of classroom experience and her commitment to cutting-edge research in these fields. She has successfully integrated these approaches to create a positive and supportive learning environment for students. Cecelia holds a Master’s in Education in Biology and enjoys exploring the outdoors with family and friends. LinkedIn

Melanie Schneider

Melanie Schneider is a seasoned educator with over 19 years of experience and currently serves as the K-12 Professional Development Manager at Canyon Professional Development. She holds two master’s degrees from Grand Canyon University: one in Curriculum and Instruction with an Emphasis in Elementary Reading and another in Educational Administration. Throughout her career, Melanie has served as an elementary teacher, Literacy Coach, and Reading Specialist, supporting struggling readers by implementing evidence-based strategies to improve literacy skills. She specializes in structured literacy and works closely with teachers to apply effective instructional strategies. Melanie also facilitates customized professional development sessions, helping educators enhance their practices and adapt to the changing needs of students. Her efforts cultivate a culture of ongoing growth, leading to better outcomes for both students and teachers. LinkedIn

Beth Simek

Beth Simek, with nearly 20 years of experience, is a dynamic subject matter expert in nonprofit board leadership, family engagement, college and career readiness, operations, and logistics. A seasoned presenter, she has led countless professional development workshops on topics ranging from nonprofit management to event planning, empowering educators and leaders to strengthen their communities. Currently serving as an Expert for Canyon Professional Development, Beth also manages the Thunder Vision program—where she blends organization with inspiration to ensure middle school students enjoy a memorable campus experience while building a strong foundation in college and career readiness. Known for her passion, expertise, and ability to connect with diverse audiences, Beth brings both depth and energy to every role she takes on. LinkedIn

Lauren Sheveland

Lauren Sheveland is a K12 Educational Development Manager with Grand Canyon Education. Lauren is a proud GCU alumna with a Bachelor’s in Business Management and is currently pursuing her MBA with an emphasis in Project Management here at GCU. She assists with behind the scenes operations and coordinates with our professional development experts to deliver excellence. LinkedIn

Iris Teta

Iris Teta is K12 Educational Development Coordinator for K12 Outreach and Support at Grand Canyon Education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and has a background in customer service and the nonprofit sector. She coordinates special events, oversees the Solutions To-Go website, and collaborates with the marketing team, the K12 Educational Development department, and both internal and external partners. LinkedIn

Taylor Baines

Taylor Baines is an experienced professional with a strong background in customer service, communications, and educational program support. She currently serves as an Educational Development and Special Projects Coordinator, where she manages behind-the-scenes operations for the K–12 Educational Development department. In this role, Taylor oversees event coordination, supports strategic initiatives, and ensures smooth departmental operations that enhance outreach and engagement with schools and educators. Linkedln