Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson: A Legacy of Differentiated Instruction and Empathetic Classrooms

Carol Ann Tomlinson, Ed.D., the William Clay Parrish, Jr. Professor Emeritus at the University of Virginia’s School of Education, is known for her research and scholarship on differentiating instruction. With increasing emphasis on homogeneity and standardized classroom environments in the United States, Dr. Tomlinson has spent her career researching and sharing how a student-centered classroom can alter the trajectory of a student’s educational and professional careers. As the author of more than 300 books, book chapters, articles, and other educational materials, Dr. Tomlinson has provided insight into the impact of an inclusive classroom that places significant value on allowing the student to take a leadership role in their educational experience. Dr. Tomlinson’s work has emphasized the critical nature of cultivating classroom environments that are built on empathy, respect, and a positive regard for all students. Recognized with multiple awards, including being named number eight out of 200 educators in EducationWeek’s Edu-Scholar Public Presence in the 2019 ranking, Dr. Tomlinson is arguably a living legend in education.