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Humans
Sara Cooper, Ed.D.
Reimagining Assessment as a Caring Practice
I believe assessment should be more than a measure—it should be a caring practice that affirms identities and brings joy to learning. With over 19 years of experience in education, I specialize in creating wayfinding experiences, embracing student perspectives, co-designing with communities, and building strong relationships.
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My work focuses on transforming how we approach assessment, ensuring it creates opportunities to build relationships and showcase each learner's unique potential. I’ve led state-level education initiatives, developed equitable science assessment systems, and collaborated closely with educators and leaders to design meaningful, identity-affirming learning experiences.
Through this work, I aim to inspire assessments that don’t just evaluate but connect, support, and celebrate every learner. Together, we can sit beside one another as learners and imagine a future where assessment brings out the best in everyone.



