Toya Abrams

Toya Abrams has worked in public education in Arizona for over 19 years.  Teaching a variety of elementary grades in both charter and public school districts, her background includes working mostly with second language learners, literacy intervention and in the social sciences.

Having previously taught and created curriculum for several community colleges, Toya is now currently a Clinical Assistant Professor and Performance Specialist at ASU.  In these roles, Toya teaches courses related to teacher prep and supports senior year students completing year-long field experience student teaching as part of the elementary education iTeachAZ program in various school districts.

Toya has earned undergraduate degrees in fashion design and sociology, two master’s degrees (one in elementary education with teacher certification and one in educational leadership with principal certification).  She has endorsements in physical education, English as a second language and structured English immersion.  Additionally, Toya spent two years as a second language learner herself pursuing a diploma in Spanish as an exchange student in Cuernavaca, Mexico. 

Toya recently completed her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and Innovation here at ASU while also simultaneously completing a master’s degree in sociology.  Her research interests include building professional identity and using action research in teacher prep.