Irene Dearman, a native of Beaumont, MS, has been an educator and administrator for 30 years in various settings. She has taught since 1987 at every level in education. Prior to her appointment at William Carey University, she taught at the elementary level, the middle school level, the high school level, and the IHL level. Additionally, she was an administrator in school and district settings. She served as the Regional Service Center Director for the University of Southern Mississippi and taught in the Department of Research and Educational Studies. She also works for the Mississippi Department of Education with the Department of Educator Accountability: Department of Research and Development conducting professional learning to school leaders and teachers. Her professional interests include testing, assessment and evaluation; effective teaching and learning strategies; and leadership development. Her hobbies are gardening and reading.