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Kathleen Harris

Kathleen Harris
Dean of School of Education and Applied Social Sciences, Professor of Education
Adaptive Online Instruction, Business, Computer and Info Tech Education, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education, Education Certification, Educational Studies, Elementary Education, Innovative Instruction, Master of Education Critical and Cultural Literacy, Secondary Education, Social Work, Special Education

Kathleen joined the faculty at Seton Hill University as Assistant Professor in the Division of Education fall 2010. Kathleen received her undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education and Psychology at Notre Dame College, South Euclid, Ohio, and master's degree in Early Childhood Education and doctoral degree in special education at Kent State University. Kathleen's dissertation research, "The Effects of Peer-Mediated Intervention in Promoting Social Skills for Children with Disabilities," is about peer-mediated intervention, a strategy those working in preschool inclusive environments can use, by creating opportunities for peers to take on an instructional role to promote social behaviors for children with disabilities. Kathleen has taught, directed, and developed curriculums for early childhood programs, toddlers to pre-kindergarten, and also develops professional development trainings for early childhood teachers, parent programs, and early childhood conferences. While at Kent State University, Kathleen supervised graduate early intervention and undergraduate early childhood education students and taught early childhood education classes. Kathleen has published articles in Young Children, Young Exceptional Children, and the International Journal of Children's Spirituality. In addition, she contributed to the creation of Ohio's Early Childhood Core Knowledge and Competencies in 2006 focusing on Family and Community Relations. Kathleen is a member of the American Educational Research Association, Division for Early Childhood, Council for Exceptional Children, Pi Lambda Theta International National Honor Society, and the National Association for the Education of Young Children. She has served on the boards of Pi Lambda Theta International Honor Society, Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children, the Ohio Division for Early Children and is a NCATE reviewer and auditor for NAEYC and consulting editor for Young Children and Teaching Young Children. Kathleen's research interests are peer-mediated interventions for young children, children's spirituality, strengths and interests of young children for promoting positive social behaviors, tiered instructions, mobile technology for young children, and the Project approach.

Education

  • Ph.D., Kent State University (Kent, Ohio), 2010

  • M.Ed., Kent State University (Kent, Ohio), 2005

  • B.A., Notre Dame College (South Euclid, Ohio), 2003

  • A.A.S., Lakeland Community College (Mentor, Ohio), 1993

Publications

  • Harris, K. (2024). Reconceptualizing children’s spirituality for equity and inclusion: Celebrating strengths, community, and friendships. In E. Rouse, B. Hyde, and T. Eaude (Eds.), Nurturing Young Children as Spiritual Beings in a Globalized World, (Chapter 1). Bloomsbury Academic.

  • Harris, K. (2024). Let’s play at the park! Family partnerships promoting spiritual resources to inspire nature, pretend play, storytelling, intergenerational play and celebrations. In J. C. K. Lee (Ed.), Spiritual, Life and Values Education for Children, (pp. 86–99). Taylor & Francis.

  • Harris, K. (2024). The personae of the spiritual child: Taking pictures of the heart using technology and tablets. In J. C. K. Lee (Ed.), Perspectives on Children’s Spirituality in Diverse and Changing Contexts, (pp. 73–87). Taylor and Francis.

  • Harris, K., Ilich, S., & Shadwick, S. (2024). Sharing the gift of ourselves: Lessons from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. Childhood Education Innovations: Celebrating 100 Years, 100(1), 60–67.

  • Harris, K. (2024). Creating stories of the heart for young children: Developing early literacy through play and storyography. In M. Felton and D. H. Cortez-Castro (Eds.), Re-exploring Play and Playfulness in Early Childhood Teacher Education: Narratives, Reflections, and Practices, (Chapter 7). Routledge.

  • Harris, K. (Accepted, 2024). The value of healing families: Connecting early literacy with social-emotional learning. In T. Lewis (Ed.), Promising Practice for Engaging Families and Communities around Mental Health in Schools. IAP Publishing.

  • Harris, K. (Accepted, 2024). Nurturing and leading the soul of teaching for student teachers with servant leadership. In R. Vassar, J. Alston, D. Anderson, and C. Barnett III (Eds.), Leading with Soul: Examining the Praxis of Critical Servant Leadership Theory and Spiritual Leadership for School Administrators. IAP Publishing.

  • Harris, K., & Blasioli. M. (2023). What does your library say about your neighborhood? Designing cultural and diverse libraries inspired by Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. Early Childhood Education Journal. (Revision in peer review).

  • Harris, K. (2023). Children with autism soar through superhero play. Childhood Education Innovations, 99(1), 48-55.

  • Harris, K., Teitelbaum, A., & Holets, M. (2022). Cultivating nourishment and compassion for young children’s Minds, hearts, and souls using spiritual literacy: Allowing children to hear their song. In K. R. Fox and L. E. Szech (Eds.), Handbook of research on family literacy practices and home-school connections (pp. 286?305). IGI Global.

  • Harris, K. (2022). Through a Child's Eyes: Using Floor Play to Connect with Children and Families. Young Children, 77(2), 36-43.

  • Harris, K. (2022). Caring for the Heats and Souls of Young Children: Acknowledging Spiritual Intelligence. Childhood Education, 98(1), 24-32.

  • Harris, K. (2021). Intentional spiritual care for sick children: A beacon for decreasing stress and nurturing spirituality. International Journal of Children's Spirituality, 26(4), 214-234. DOI: 10.1080/1364436X.2021.1945548.

  • Harris, K. (2021). Teaching metaphors: Supporting professional growth and shaping teacher identity. Journal of Education and Training Studies, 9(8), 17–23.

  • Harris, K. (2021). Discovering Success through Education: The Gentle Whisper of Planting Acorns. A chapter in S. M. Morris, L. Rai, & K. Littleton (Eds)., Voices of Practice: Narrative Scholarship from the Margins. pp. 87-93. Washington, DC: Hybrid Pedagogy, Inc.

  • Harris, K. (2021). Parenting with compassion, hope, and love: The heartbeat of a spiritual family. In D. Joy Davis (Ed.), United we stand: The role of spirituality in engaging and healing communities (pp. 59-72). Charlotte, North Carolina: IAP.

  • Harris, K. (2021). Parent cooperative early childhood programs: Empowering family strengths and family engagement for all young children. International Journal of Contemporary Education, 4(1), 39-45.

  • Harris, K. (2019). Fred Rogers and children’s spirituality: Valuing the uniqueness of others and caring for others. International Journal of Children's Spirituality, 24(2), 140-154.

  • Harris, K. (2019). Using peer-shared intervention strategies for promoting math explorations and critical thinking in early childhood inclusive classrooms. International Journal of Contemporary Education, 2(1), 33-42.

  • Harris, K. (2018). Play diplomats as intervention agents: Peers promoting friendships and social skills. Play Policy, and Practice Connections, November 2019, NAEYC Play, Policy, and Practice Interest Forum, 2-6.

  • Harris, K. (2018). Preservice Early Childhood Educators' Metaphors for Teaching; Intentional, Enriching, Reflective. Young Children, 73(4), 84-88.

  • Harris, K. (2018). The personae of the spiritual child: Taking pictures of the heart using technology and tablets. International Journal of Children’s Spirituality, 23(3), 291-305.

  • Harris, K. (2018). Nurturing Spiritual Intelligence for Young Children: Awakening Play, Wonder, and Imagination. Play, Policy, and Practice Connections, May 2018, NAEYC Play, Policy, and Practice Interest Forum, 5-9.

  • Harris, K. (2018). Developmental universal practice: Visioning innovative early childhood pedagogy for meeting the needs of diverse learners. In J. Murray (Ed.), Early childhood pedagogies: Creating spaces for young children to flourish. New York, NY: Routledge.

  • Harris, K. (2017). Spiritual care for ill children: A facet of holistic healing. Association of Child Life Professionals Bulletin/Focus Quarterly Journal, 34(4), 22-31.

  • Harris, K. (2017). Once upon a time, there was a rainbow dinosaur. International Journal of Holistic Early Learning and Development, 4, 18-34.

  • Harris, K., Kinley, H. L., & Cook, A. (2017). Promoting alphabet knowledge using peer-mediated intervention: A dynamic duo for early literacy development. Young Exceptional Children, 20(2), 55-68.

  • Harris, K. (2017). A teacher’s journey to mindfulness: Opportunities for joy, hope, and compassion. Childhood Education, 93(2), 119-127.

  • Harris, K., & Fisher, H. (2017). Hands on! Promoting sensory activities. Teaching Young Children, 10(3), 13-15.

  • Harris, K. (2016). Spiritual development. In D. L. Couchenour and J. K. Chrisman (Eds.), The SAGE encyclopedia of contemporary early childhood education (pp. 1277-1278). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications. doi: 10.4135/9781483340333.n385

  • Harris, K. (In review, 2016). Creating teachable moments with families: Building on children’s interests with floor time. Teaching Young Children

  • Harris, K., & Sholtis, S. (2016). Companion Angels on a Leash: Welcoming Service Dogs into Classroom Communities for Children with Autism. Childhood Education, 92(4), 263-275.

  • Harris, K. (2016). Let's play at the park! Family pathways promoting spiritual resources to inspire nature, pretend play, storytelling, intergenerational play and celebrations. International Journal of Children's Spirituality, 21(2), 90-103, doi:10.1080/1364436X.2016.1164669.

  • Harris, K. (2016). Heroes of resiliency and reciprocity: Teachers' supporting roles for reconceptualizing superhero play in early childhood settings. Pastoral Care in Education. doi:10.1080/02643944.2016.1154093.

  • Harris, K. (2016). Social studies investigations for young children: Passports to inquiry, community, and partnerships. Social Studies Research and Practice, 10), 3, 88-97.

  • Harris, K. (2016). Supporting executive function skills in early childhood: Using a peer buddy approach for community, confidence, and citizenship. Journal of Education and Training, 3(1), 158/175 doi:10.5296/jet.v3i1.8837

  • Harris, K. (2015). The unexpected journey shared by families: Using literature to support and understand families raising a child with a disability. Early Childhood Education Journal, 43(6), 473-484.

  • Harris, K. (2015). Children's spirituality and inclusion: Strengthening a child's spirit with community, resilience and joy. International Journal of Children's Spirituality, 20(3-4), 161-177.

  • Harris, K. (2015) Peer play dates: Making friends and facilitating prosocial skills. Childhood Education, Family Connections, 91(3), 223-226.

  • Harris, K. (2015). The importance of establishing rituals for children with autism. Autism Spectrum Quarterly, Spring, 10-14.

  • Harris, K. (2015). Developmentally universal practice: Visioning innovative early childhood pedagogy for meeting the needs of diverse learners. Early Child Development and Care, 185(11-12), 1880-1893.

  • Harris, K. (2014). Embracing make believe play and theories of early childhood: Understanding children’s spirituality and the spiritual essence of a young child. Journal of Integrative Pediatrics and Environmental Medicine, 1(1), 12-21.

  • Harris, K. (2013). "Teacher, I Have a Dream!" Sharing Moments of Spiritual Transformation with Young Children Using Project-Based Learning. International Journal of Children's Spirituality, 18(3), 281-293.

  • Harris, K. (September, 2013). September Highlight: The Citizenship Rubric. Birth-to-Kindergarten Blog; http://www.b2kcentral.com/b2k-blog/citizenship-rubric.

  • Harris, K., Pretti-Frontczak, K., & Brown, T. (2009). Peer-mediated intervention: Implementing research-based practices within developmentally appropriate learning environments. Young Children, 64(2), 43-49.

  • Harris, K., & Gleim, L. (2008). The light fantastic: Making learning visible for all children through the project approach. Young Exceptional Children, 11(3), 1-14.

  • Harris, K. (2007). Reconceptualizing spirituality in light of educating young children. International Journal of Children’s Spirituality, 12(3), 263-275.

Awards

  • 2018 Seton Hill University Faculty Innovation Award: Best Practices in Mobile Technology

  • Awarded NAEYC Higher Education Recognition Audit Team Member, July 2018

  • Distinguished Childhood Education Journal Article Award for 2016 by the Association for Childhood Education (ACEI), and Taylor & Francis: Companion angels on a leash: Welcoming service dogs into classroom communities for children with autism.

  • Seton Hill University Club Advisor of the Year, 2015-2016, Education Club

  • Tri-County Association for the Education of Young Children, "Teacher of Teachers" Award, 2007

  • Outstanding Achievement Leadership and Service Award, Kent State University College of Education, 2006, 2007

  • The Marilyn Riley Parks Memorial Scholarship in Early Childhood Education, 2004

  • Joseph M. & Aldemira Alfonso Education Award, Education Department, Notre Dame College, 2002

  • Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children Early Childhood Award, 1999

  • Excellence in Child Care Award by the General Assembly, State of Ohio Senate, 1997

Organizations

  • International Association of Children's Spirituality

  • American Council on Rural Special Education (ACRES) 2020-

  • National Council for the Social Studies

  • Child Life Council

  • National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

  • Association for Childhood Education International

  • National Association of Early Childhood Teacher Educators

  • American Educational Research Association

  • Pittsburgh Association for the Education of Young Children

  • Council for Exceptional Children

  • Division for Early Childhood

  • Pi Lambda Theta International Honor Society

  • Seton Hill early childhood education faculty representative to Higher Education Education Committee, Early Childhood Education for Pennsylvania

  • Seton Hill early childhood education faculty representative to the Southwest Regional Key- Leadership Council Focus Group

Presentations

  • Harris, K. (2024, June). Nurturing essential life skills: Embracing Fred Rogers’s legacy in early childhood classrooms. A presentation at The Work of Fred Rogers: A Cross-Context Conference on Fred’s Legacy in Action Today, Latrobe, PA.

  • Harris, K. (2024, April). What’s in your classroom? Welcoming inclusion, diversity, and equity picture books into your classroom library. Presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children 2024 Annual Conference, Sandusky, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2024, April). Conquering the silent pandemic: Comforting the hearts, minds, and souls of children. Presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children 2024 Annual Conference, Sandusky, Ohio.

  • Harris, K., & Tamburrino, M. (2024, April). Let’s recharge and thrive fostering resilience, preventing burnout, and nurturing compassionate teaching. Presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children 2024 Annual Conference, Sandusky, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2024, April). Promoting a culture of reciprocal trust: Nurturing spirituality in the workplace for student teachers. Poster and e-Lightening Ed-Talk presentation at the American Educational Research Association (AERA) 2024 Annual Meeting, Philadelphia, PA.

  • Harris, K., Goodall, S., Soutter, M., & Rappeport, A. (2024, April). International perspectives on cultivating justice and hope through wellbeing promotion in educational settings: Symposium for the Holistic Special Interest Group at the American Educational Research Association (AERA) 2024 Annual Meeting, Philadelphia, PA.

  • Harris, K. (2024, April). Enlightening nourishment and compassion for young children’s minds, hearts, and souls using spiritual literacy. Presentation at the National Catholic Educators Association (NCEA) Annual Conference, Pittsburgh, PA.

  • Harris, K., Tamburrino, M., Shelton, T., & Stone, M. (2023, November). It’s time to revitalize and recharge your passion for teaching: Let’s thrive and seize opportunities for self-care to restore balance, relationships, and new connections in teaching. Pre-conference presented at the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Annual Conference, Nashville, TN.

  • Harris, K. (2023, November). Holistic healing for supporting loss and grief for young children and families: Mediating with compassion and healing with love. Presentation at the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Annual Conference, Nashville, TN.

  • Harris, K. (2023, June). Fred Rogers and Children's Spirituality: Valuing the uniquenes of others and caring for others. The Work of Fred Rogers: A Conference on His Context and Legacy, Fred Rogers Institute, Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2023, March). Uplifting use of self for rural special education teachers: Teaching with compassion and self-care. Presentation at the annual American council on Rural Special Education (ACRES) Conference., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2023, March). Catching children’s dreams by using the healing power of play to inspire hope and resiliency. Presentation at the annual American council on Rural Special Education (ACRES) Conference, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

  • Harris, K., & Tamburrino, M. (2023, February). Keeping your joy and finding gratitude: Spiritual strength for teachers. Pre-conference at the South Carolina Early Childhood Association (SCECA) Annual Conference.

  • Harris, K. (2023, February). Promoting spiritual care and holistic healing for supporting loss and grief for young Children and families. Presentation at the National Alliance Mental Illness (NAMI) Keystone Child, Adolescent, and Transition Age Youth Mental Health Conference, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K., & Tamburrino, M. (2023, February). Keeping your joy and finding gratitude: Spiritual strength for teachers. Pre-conference at the South Carolina Early Childhood Association (SCECA) Annual Conference.

  • Harris, K., & Stone, M. (2022, October). Creating teachable moments: Photography through the eyes of the child. Pennsylvania Early Childhood Summit, Virtual Conference.

  • Harris, K. (2022, June). Respecting all families: Welcoming all diverse families into my classroom. A workshop presentation at the 2022 Professional Development Learning Institute, National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), Cleveland, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2022, June). The use of self: Inspiring play, wonder, and self-care for teachers hearts. A paper presentation for the 2022 National Association of early Childhood Teacher Educator's Summer Conference.

  • Harris, K. (2022, April). Lessons from the sandbox: The gift of play. Featured Presenter for the Annual Conference of the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children.

  • Harris, K. (2022, April). Creating welcoming and inclusive environments for all families. Featured Presenter. Annual Conference for the Ohio Association of Young Children (OAEYC).

  • Harris, K., & Tamburrino, M. (2022, April). Keeping your joy: Spiritual strength for the heart of the teacher. Featured Presenter. Annual Conference for the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children.

  • Harris, K. (2021, November). Intentional spiritual care for sick children: A beacon for decreasing stress and Nurturing spirituality. Invited speaker to the 5th International Webinar on Global Advanced Nursing and patient safety and healthcare. November 19th and 20th, United Kingdom.

  • Harris, K. (2021, November). Engaging early childhood special education teachers with professional development for welcoming inclusion, building resilience, and responding to trauma through the appreciative inquiry Framework. Paper presentation at the fall 2021 National Association of Early Childhood Teacher Educators’ Virtual Conference on November 17th.

  • Harris, K., Tamburrino, M., & Stone, M. (2021, November). Promoting developmentally appropriate practices for young children through the lens of the pandemic. Presentation at the online 2021 National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference, Washington, DC.

  • Harris, K. (2021, October). Examining teacher beliefs and practices for future teachers using the Seven Stages of enlightened teaching. Presentation at the 50th Annual PAC-TE 2021 Teacher Education Assembly, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2021, October). Early childhood education through the lens of the pandemic: Fostering meaningful Learning for young children. Presentation at the 50th Annual PAC-TE 2021 Teacher Education Assembly, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

  • Harris, K., Tamburrino, M., & Stone, M. (2021, October). When the world went sideways: Learning Discoveries during the pandemic. 2021 Pennsylvania Early Childhood Summit, October 20, 2021 Virtual Conference.

  • Harris, K. (2021, June). Teacher’s self-efficacy: Examining beliefs of teaching during challenging times. Paper presentation at the Summer 2021 National Association of Early Childhood Teacher Educators’ Virtual Conference.

  • Harris, K. (2021, April). Tender toddler moments that support spiritual growth in developmentally appropriate ways. Featured Presenter for the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children– The Early Childhood Conference: A Spectacular Virtual Experience.

  • Harris, K., & Tamburriono, M. (2021, April). Transforming early childhood education by cultivating mindfulness. Featured Presenter for the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children – The Early Childhood Conference: A Spectacular Virtual Experience.

  • Harris, K. (2021, April). Awakening Spiritual Dispositions for Enhancing Holistic Teaching: Examining Teacher Identity Using Spiritual Enlightening Teaching. A paper presentation for the Virtual American Educational Research Association (AERA).

  • Harris, K. (2021, April). Using Peer-Mediated Interventions for Promoting Alphabet Knowledge: A Dynamic Synergy for Early Literacy Development. A paper presentation for the Virtual American Educational Research Association (AERA) Conference.

  • Harris, K., Tamburrino, M., & Stone, M. (2021, March). When the world went sideways: Engaging young children at the Child Development Center (CDC) with new learning discoveries during the pandemic. Seton Hill University Virtual Pandemic Talks, March 23, 2021.

  • Harris, K. (2021, March) Nurturing Spiritual Care for Families Raising a Child with a Disability: Reclaiming Joy and Confidence. A presentation at the 40th Annual ACRES National Conference: Re-imaging Rural Special Education: Access and Engagement.

  • Harris, K. (2021, March). Audio Set, Camera On: Good Morning Family! You're Invited to an Online Home Visit. A presentation at the 40th Annual ACRES National Conference: Re-imaging Rural Special Education: Access and Engagement.

  • Harris K. (2021, March). Using Contemplative Photography and the Project Approach in Early Childhood Special Education. A poster presentation at the Annual Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Special Education & Expo International Conference (online).

  • Harris, K. (2020, November). Walking in a mile in their shoes: Respecting all families and building family strengths using literature. Presentation at the annual 2020 National Association of Early Childhood Teacher Education (NAECTE) Virtual Conference.

  • Harris, K. (2020, October). What are we conveying to children about teachers? A review of teachers’ portrayal in children’s literature. Presentation at the 49th Annual PAC-TE 2020 Teacher Education Assembly, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2020, October). Teaching is beyond the blackboard: Using parent stories and bibliotheraphy for supporting parent engagement. Presentation at the 49th Annual PAC-TE 2020 Teacher Education Assembly, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (April 2020). "Superhero Play for Children with Autism: Creating Opportunities to Develop Pretend Play, Problem Solving, Positive Social Sills and Superpowers!" A presentation at the Young Child Expo and Conference, New York City.

  • Harris, K. (2020, March). Spiritual Care as a Facet of Holistic Healing. UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Child Life Conference, "Come Ketchup with Us: Innovations in Child Life." A presentation at UMPC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

  • Harris, K. (November, 2019). Parenting with Spirit: Supporting Children's Spiritual Development and Nurturing Parental Engagement. A Presentation at the Annual 2019 National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference (NAEYC), Nashville, Tennessee.

  • Harris, K. (November, 2019). A Teacher's Quest: Awakening Reverence, Compassion, and a Love of Teaching. Presentation at the Annual 2019 National Association of Early Childhood Teacher Educators (NAECTE) Conference, Nashville, Tennessee.

  • Harris, K. (October, 2019). Creating pictures of the Heart for Young Children: iPads as Empowering Tools for Contemplative Practices and Storyography. Presentation at the 48th Annual PAC-TE 2019 Teacher Education Assembly, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2019, October). Leading with the voices of our students. Nurturing the inner reflective lives of early childhood student teachers. Presentation at the 48th Annual PAC-TE 2019 Teacher Education Assembly, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2019, June). Peer-Mediated Support Strategies Rock! Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Ohio Conference. A presentation at the Summer 2019 Forum. Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2019, April). Using Transitions for a Caring and Respectful Early Childhood Community. A featured presenter presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children (OAEYC) 2019 Annual Conference, Sandusky, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2019, April). The Heartbeat and Flow of Teaching: Leading with Compassion, Celebrating with Passions, and Connecting with Collaboration (Part I and Part II). A featured presenter presentation at the Ohio Association at the Education of Young Children (OAEYC) Annual 2019 Conference, Sandusky, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2019, April). Superhero Play: Heroes of Resiliency and Reciprocity for All Young Children. A featured presenter presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children (OAEYC) Annual 2019 Conference at Sandusky, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2019, April). Promoting spiritual moments and social justice in early childhood education: Teaching "Tender Spiritual Topics" using children's literature. Paper presentation at the American Educational Research Association annual meeting, Toronto, Canada.

  • Harris, K. (2018, November). The heartbeat and flow of teaching: Leading with compassion, celebrating with passion, and connecting with collaboration! Pre-conference presentation at the annual 2018 National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference, Washington, D.C.

  • Harris, K., & Manfredi/Petitt, L. (2018, November). Tender toddler moments that support spiritual growth in developmentally appropriate ways: Using music, children’s literature, rituals, predictable nurturing routines, and following children’s particular interests and needs, and more! Presentation at the annual 2018 National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference, Washington, D.C.

  • Harris, K. (2018, April). Spirituality as a transformational dimension of family life: Using literature for supporting families’ spiritual needs. Paper presentation at the American Educational Research Association Meeting, New York City, New York.

  • Harris, K. (2018, April). Nurturing the vision of human wholeness: Using contemplative photography for seeing with wonder and curiosity. Paper presentation at the American Educational Research Association Annual Meeting, New York City, New York.

  • Harris, K. (2018, February). Home visits: Opportunities for early interventionists to adopt the role as a change agent for promoting and supporting family-centered care for young children with disabilities. ! A poster presented at the annual Council for Exceptional Children Special Education Convention & Expo International Conference, Tampa, Florida.

  • Harris, K. (2018, February). Superhero play: Creating opportunities for children with autism to develop positive social skills and emotional reciprocity as superhero friends! A poster presented at the annual Council for Exceptional Children Special Education Convention & Expo International Conference, Tampa, Florida.

  • Harris, K. (2017, December). Teaching with purpose, passion, and strengths: Building resiliency and community in kindergarten. Keynote conference presenter for the Diocese of Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Early Childhood Kindergarten Teachers.

  • Harris, K. (2017, November). Pictures of the heart: Seeking wonder and capturing nature through contemplative photography and the Mosaic Approach. Presentation at the annual 2017 National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference, Atlanta, Georgia.

  • Harris, K. (2017, November). Community, friendships, and fantasy: Envisioning resiliency and reciprocity in superhero play for young children. Pre-conference presentation at the annual 2017 National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference, Atlanta, Georgia.

  • Harris, K. (2017, April). The power of peers as intervention agents: Peer-mediated intervention for promoting play, friendships, and social skills for all young children. A poster presented at the annual Council for Exceptional Children Special Education Convention & Expo International Conference, Boston, Massachusetts.

  • Harris, K. (2017, April). Contemplation practices in inclusive early childhood classrooms: Focusing well-being in young children and early childhood special education educators. A poster presented at the annual Council for Exceptional Children Special Education Convention & Expo International Conference, Boston, Massachusetts.

  • Harris, K. (2017, March). Teaching in the Key of Life: Awakening Wonder in Early Childhood! Keynote conference presenter for the Diocese of Greensburg, Early Childhood Teachers.

  • Harris, K. (2016, October). Constructing and implementing floor time for meaningful play and intellectual emotional growth. A poster presentation at the annual Division for Early Childhood International Conference on young children with special needs and their families, Louisville, Kentucky.

  • Harris, K. (2016, October). Mindful reflective practices: A process inspiring visionary leaders for early intervention. A poster presentation at the annual Division for Early Childhood International Conference on young children with special needs and their families, Louisville, Kentucky.

  • Harris, K. (2016, June). Developing intentional dispositions to teach with passion and welcome all young children into a fully inclusive society by using literature to support all families. A presentation at the annual NAEYC 2016 National Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development, Baltimore, Maryland.

  • Harris, K. (2016, June). Leadership speed date: Learn how you can be be an NAEYC leader? Panel presentation at the 2016 National Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development, Baltimore, Maryland.

  • Harris, K. (2016, April). Mindful reflection: Promoting holistic thinking in educators for conceptualizing and teaching the whole child. A paper presentation at the American Educational Research Association Meeting, Washington, D. C.

  • Harris, K. (2016, April). Embracing superhero play in early childhood settings: Envisioning teachable moments of resiliency and reciprocity. A paper presentation at the American Educational Research Association Meeting, Washington, D. C.

  • Harris, K. (2015, November). Investigating our Marvelous World Beyond the Early Childhood Classroom: Promoting Engaging and Creative Social Studies Activities for Tomorrow's Citizens! A pre-conference at the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Orlando, Florida.

  • Harris, K., Schein, D., Surr, J., & Manfredi/Petitt, L. (2015, November). Benefits and Presence of Spirituality and Spiritual Development in HIgh Quality Early Childhood Education. A presentation at the National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference (NAEYC). Orlando, Florida.

  • Harris, K. (2015, November). Teaching Like Social Scientists: Exploring Relational Pedagogy for Young Citizens. A poster session presented at the 95th Annual Conference of the National Council for the Social Studies. New Orleans.

  • Harris K. (2015, October). Celebrating Relationships and Community Using Classroom Rituals with Children with Autism for Home and School." A presentation at the Integrate Autism 2015 Conference, Westmoreland Intermediate Unit & Seton Hill University, Greensburg, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2015, October). Peer-Mediated Intervention: Supporting Communication Skill Building, New Friendships, and Executive Function Skills for Success and Confidence. A presentation at the Integrate Autism 2015 Conference, Westmoreland Intermediate Unit and Seton Hill University, Greensburg, PA.

  • Harris, K. (2015, September). Creating the Spark! Building on Children's Interests Using Digital Technology. Keynote presentation for the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International for Key Women Educators, Greensburg, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2015, August). Process of Change -- How We Can Embrace Change in a Positive Manner. Keynote presenter for the Regional Leadership Council Meeting, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2015, May). Creating the spark! Building on young children’s interests using digital technology. A presentation at the 2015 iTeach SHU Gallery, Greensburg, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2015, May). What is the secret to 21st century skills success for young children? STEM+ Project Based learning. A presentation at the 2015 iTeach SHU Gallery, Greensburg, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2015, March). Using peer ambassadors and social narratives for promoting executive function skills and positive social skills for all young children. “Making a Difference in Early Childhood Education.” A workshop presentation at the 20th Annual Conference for Early Childhood and Early Intervention Providers. Juniata College, Huntingdon, Pennsylvania

  • Harris, K. (2015, April). Investigating Reggio Emilia and young children’s voices and perspectives using the Mosiac Approach in early childhood inclusive programs. Presentation at the annual Young Child Expo and Conference, New York City, New York.

  • Harris, K. (2015, April). Reclaiming a young child’s voice: Building holistic relationships celebrating community for children with autism using classroom rituals. A paper presentation at the annual American Education Research Association (AERA) conference, Chicago, Illinois.

  • Harris, K. (2015, April). Portraits of early success: Using a citizenship rubric for developing democratic young citizens in society. A paper presentation at the annual American Education Research Association (AERA) conference, Chicago, Illinois.

  • Harris, K., & Seybert, J. (2015, April). Music and communication in early childhood: Learning, enculturation, and the classroom ecology. A paper presentation at the annual American Education Research Association (AERA) conference, Chicago, Illinois.

  • Schein, D., B. Patti., & Harris, K. (November, 2014). "Nurturing Young Children's Spiritual Development through Nature." A presentation at the National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference in Dallas, Texas.

  • Harris, K. (2014, October). "Nurturing Each Child's Spirit: Caring for the Souls of Young Children." A presentation for the PAEYC and the Allegheny County Family Support Conference, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2014, October). "Sizzling Transitions for Inspiring and Motivating Brain Development in Child-Centered Classrooms." A presentation for the PAEYC and the Allegheny County Family Support Conference, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

  • Sholtis, S., & Harris, K. (2014, October). "Companion Angels on a Leash: Service Dogs and the Children They Touch and Inspire." A presentation for the PAEYC and the Allegheny County Family Support Conference, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

  • Shetron, K. & Harris, K. (2014, October). "Using Visual Supports for Young Children: Enhancing Independence and Engagement for Visibility in Inclusive Early Childhood Programs. A presentation for the PAEYC and the Allegheny County Family Support Conference, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2014, October). "I See Every Child Belonging: Teachers Attitudes towards Disabilities Awakened through Literature." A poster session presented at the Division of Children International Conference, St. Louis, Missouri.

  • Harris, K. (2014, May). All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten. 12th Annual United Way Transition Conference, Seton Hill University, Greensburg, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2014, May). What is the Secret to 21st Century Skills Success for Young Children? Innovation through STEAM+Project-based Learning. Proposal accepted at the Annual PA STEM Vision Conference, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2014, May). "Play Using Projects: Strategies to Facilitate Innovative Play Dates and Promote Peer Social Interactions in Child Life Programs." Presentation at the 32nd Annual Conference on Professional Issues, Child Life Council, New Orleans, Louisiana.

  • Harris, K. (2014, May). "Creating Spiritually-Rich Environments in Child Life Programs for Uplifting a Child's Spiritual Domain." Presentation at the 32nd Annual Conference on Professional Issues, Child Life Council, New Orleans, Louisiana.

  • Harris, K. (2014, April). "Peer-Mediated Interventions: Promoting Executive Function Strategies and Peer Social Interactions in Early Childhood Inclusive Settings." Presentation at the 11th Annual Young Child Expo and Conference, New York City, New York.

  • Harris, K. (2014, April). "Nurturing the Hearts and Souls of All Young Children: Using Peer-Mediated Interventions to Support Children's Spirituality as Being Directive and Transformational for Children With Disabilities. Paper presentation at the American Educational Research Association, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2014, March). "Staying Connected! Promoting Citizenship and Social Skills Using Digital Social Stories for Play, Friendships, and Learning." Presentation at the Annual Conference of the American Council on Rural Special Education, Tucson, Arizona.

  • Harris, K., & Ordonez, B. (2014, February). "STEM and the Arts in Early Education." Presentation at the annual Pennsylvania Educational Technology Exposition & Conference (PETE & C), Hershey, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K., & Monsour, M. (2014, February). "Using Transition Time Books." Presentation at the annual Pennsylvania Educational Technology Exposition & Conference (PETE & C), Hershey, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K., Stutz, D. J., Schein, D., & Lipshin, I. (2013, November). Honoring Teacher Dispositions in All of Us: Discovering How Teacher's Dispositions Connect to the Spiritual Development of Young Children. Pre-conference, half-day presentation at the Annual National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference, Washington, DC.

  • Harris, K., Schein, D., Davisson, S, & Manfredi-Petitt, L. (2013, November). Children's Literature: Providing an "Open Window" to Spiritual Moments in Early Childhood. Presentation at the Annual National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference in Washington, DC.

  • Harris, K. (2013, October). Read It! Do It! Tell It! Transform It! Using energizing transitions for early literacy and social skill development. Presentation at the Friedberg-Segel Early Literacy Conference, PAEYC, Fred Rogers Center, Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2013, October). Once Upon a Time: Engaging Young Children's Minds Using Mobile Technology and Storytelling. Presentation at the 2013 Early Childhood Education Summit for Young Children, "Igniting the Imagination, Inspiring Action." State College, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2013, April). Embracing Peer-Rational Spirituality for Transforming Classrooms: Building Resilience, and Ending Press-Downed Patterns of Poverty. A paper presentation at the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Conference, San Francisco, California.

  • Harris, K. (2013, April). Once Upon a Time: Engaging Young Children's Minds Using Mobile Technology and Storytelling. Presentation at the 2013 Early Education and Technology for Children (EETC) Conference, Salt Lake City, Utah.

  • Harris, K. (2013, April). Through the Eyes of a Child: A Day in the Life of an IPad. Presentation at the 2013 Early Education and Technology for Children (EETC) Conference, Salt Lake City, Utah.

  • Harris, K. (2013, March). Infusing Synergy and Technology into Early Childhood Teacher Preparation: Educating and Transforming Early Childhood Education for Future Teachers. Accepted round table proposal for the annual SITE (Society for Information Technology and Teacher Education Conference: New Orleans, Louisiana.

  • Harris, K. (2013, March). Brain Rules for Adult Learning Styles: Creating the Spark of Energy in Higher Ed. Learning. A presentation at the Pennsylvania Association for the Education of Young Children and Southwest Keys Professional Development Conference, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2013, February). Transforming STEM Learning With a Touch: Exploring, Connecting, Awakening. Proposal acceptance for the annual STEM conference, North Huntington, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K. (2012, September). "Transitions for ALL Young Children: Promoting Play and Social Skills. Mount Pleasant and Greensburg Preschool and Kindergarten Teachers, Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania.

  • Surr, J., Harris, K., Lipshine, I., & Schein, D. (2012, November). "Looking at Spirituality from an Early Childhood Perspective." Presentation for the National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference, Atlanta, Georgia.

  • Harris, K., & Pfeiffer-Fiala, C. (2012, November). Nurturing Peers as Intervention Agents: Using Social Stories to Encourage Participation, Critical Thinking, Communication, and Collaboration Skills for All Young Children. Pre-conference for the National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference, Atlanta, Georgia.

  • Harris, K. (2012, October). "Peer-Mediated Interventions: Evidence-Based Practice Promoting Friendships and Visibility in Early Childhood Inclusive Classrooms." Keynote, one-day conference for Early Learning and School Readiness, State Support Team Region 8, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2012, April). Peer-Mediated Interventions: Participation, Engagement, & Visibility for Children. A full-day presentation at the annual Ohio Early Care & Education Conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2012, April). Technology and Young Children: The very best of both worlds! A presentation at the second annual iTeach Technology Gallery, Seton Hill University, Greensburg, PA.

  • Harris, K. (2012, March). Lessons from the Sandbox: Promoting Play, Spiritual Friendships, and Peace Education. A presentation at the Annual Global Summit on Childhood, Association for Childhood Education International, Washington, DC.

  • Harris, K. (2012, February). Awakening Early Childhood Wonder with the iPad. Presentation at the annual Pennsylvania Educational Technology Exposition and Conference, Hershey, Pennsylvania.

  • Harris, K., & Pfeiffer-Fiala, C. (2011, November). Play and Relationships: Using Evidence-Based Peer-Interactions, Interventions, Classroom Activities, and Environmental Strategies as Opportunities to Support Learning and Friendships. A pre-conference at the annual National Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Orlando, Florida.

  • Harris, K. (2011, November). Effects of Peer-Mediated Intervention in Promoting Social Skills for Children with Disabilities. A poster session presented at the annual DEC International Conference on young children with special needs and their families, National Harbor, Maryland.

  • Harris, K., & Pfeiffer-Fiala, C. (2011, November). Constructing and Implementing Social Stories for Young Children with ASD. A presentation at the annual DEC International Conference on young children with special needs and their families, National Harbor, Maryland.

  • Harris, K. (2011, November). The Essence of a Child's Spirit for Creating Supportive Relationships: Play and Peer-Relational Spirituality. Presentation at the annual National Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Orlando, Florida.

  • Harris, K., Curry, B., & Somerville, B. (2011, November). Play and Relationships: Using evidence-based, peer-interaction interventions, classroom activities, and environmental strategies as opportunities to support peer interactions, learning, and friendships. Pre-conference at the annual National Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Orlando, Florida.

  • Harris, K., & Pffeiffer-Fiala, C. (2011, June). Implementing Tiered Instruction: Universal, Targeted, and Intentional Strategies. Presentation at the annual National Association for the Education of Young Children National Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development, Providence, Rhode Island.

  • Harris, K. (2011, May). "Success for all young children: Supporting Differentiated Instruction within a Curriculum Framework Building Community and Accountability." Presentation at the annual Pennsylvania Early Learning Conference, Building Quality: Education Leadership for a Changing World.

  • Harris, K. (2011, May). Building a Caring and Supportive Learning Community: Peer-Mediated Interventions: An effective inclusive strategy for all young children. Presentation at the annual Pennsylvania Early Learning Conference, Building Quality: Education Leadership for a Changing World.

  • Harris, K. (2011, April). Implications for all young children: A spiritual curriculum embracing peer-relational spirituality. A paper presented at the Annual American Educational Research Association, New Orleans, Louisiana.

  • Harris, K., Grisham-Brown, J., Hawkins, S., Pfeiffer-Fiala, C., & Robbins, S. (2010, October). Implementing Tiered Instruction: Universal, Targeted, and Intentional Strategies. Pre-conference Workshop at the Annual DEC International conference on young children with special needs and their families, Kansas City, Missouri.

  • Harris, K., Curry, B., & Somerville, B. (2010, November). Success for all young children: Promoting friendships In early childhood programs through peer buddy systems. Presentation at the annual National Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Anaheim, California.

  • Harris, K. (1999, April). Play in the Lives of Young Children. A presentation at a parent meeting for the Aurora Co-op Nursery School, Aurora, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2000, February). Positive Guidance for Young Children at Home. A presentation at a parent meeting for the Aurora Co-op Nursery School, Aurora, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2003, August). The Issue of Separation Anxiety and the Transition from Home to Pre-School. A presentation at a parent meeting for the Aurora Co-op Nursery School, Aurora, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2008, October). Using peer-mediated intervention to increase social skills with two children with disabilities. A poster presented at the annual DEC International Conference on young children with special needs and their families, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

  • Harris, K. (2008, September). Nurturing the Inner Passion of Teachers: Becoming a Reflective Teacher. Presentation at the Pi Lambda Theta International Regional Leadership Conference, Toledo, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2005, January). Diving Into Math With Children's Literature. A two-day workshop presentation at Lake Erie College Professional Development Institute, Painesville, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2005, September). Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Education. Keynote for Mini University, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. & Pretti-Frontczak, K. (2006, October). Universal Design of Learning: Reaching All Children. Pre-conference Workshop at the annual DEC International Conference, Little Rock, Arkansas.

  • Harris, K. (2006, January). Parent Partnerships. A Child Development Associate presentation, Tru-Mah-Col Association for the Education of Young Children and Child Care Connections, Cortland, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2006, March). Redirecting Children's Behavior: Strategies for Early Childhood Professionals. A presentation at the Summit Community Service Bureau & Child Care Connections, Akron, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2006, April). Family Communications. A Child Development Associate presentation, Tru/Mah/Col Association for the Education of Young Children and Child Care Connections, Cortland, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2006, May). Leadership & Empowerment for Early Childhood Teachers. A presentation at the Early Childhood Mental Health Institute, Ravenna, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2006, July). Superhero Play. A presentation at the University of Akron childcare center for staff and student teachers, Akron, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2007, October). Making Content Standards Alive Through the Power of Play. A presentation for St. Paul's Nursery School Parent Forum, Painesville, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2006, July). Superhero Play. A presentation at the University of Akron childcare center for staff and student teachers, Akron, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2007, March). Teaching with Compassion for Early Childhood Professionals. Keynote presentation for the Early Childhood Mental Health Institute, Ravenna, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2008, April). Transitions the Energize Brain Development for Young Children. A Child Development Associate presentation, Tru-Mah-Col Association for the Education of Young Children/Child Care Connections, Cortland, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2010, April). Caring and Educating the Whole Child: Teaching with Passion! Keynote presentation for the Alliance of Summit County Childcaring Providers Breakfast, Summit County Children Services, Akron, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2009, November). Finding Balance in an Unbalanced World. Keynote presentation for Fall Learning Conference, Starting Point for Child Care and Early Education, Chesterland, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2010, August). Using Peer-Mediated Intervention: An Effective, Research-Based and Inclusive Strategy for all Young Children. The State Support Team Region 9 of Ohio for Early Childhood Education, Ravenna, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2001, May). Promoting Phonemic Awareness for Young Children. A paper presented at the Akron Area Association for the Education of Young Children annual conference, Akron, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2005, March). Rekindling the Spirit of Early Childhood Professional Development. Keynote presentation for Tri-County Association for the Education of Young Children Membership Meeting, Mentor, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2005, May). Teaching With Compassion. Keynote Presentation for Sandusky-Valley Association for the Education of Young Children annual membership meeting, Bellevue, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2005, December). Awakening the Spirit of Professionalism for Early Childhood Professionals For 2006. Keynote presentation for Akron Area Association for the Education of Young Children membership meeting, Akron, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2007, June). Peer-Mediated Researched-Based Interventions for Young Children & Transitions for Young Children. Kent State University Early Intervention Summer Institute, Kent, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2007, October). Making Time for Your Passions! A workshop presentation at the Annual Tri-County Association for the Education of Young Children fall conference, Painesville, Ohio.

  • Harris, K., Robbins, S., & Hricko, M. (2008, October). Fostering Transformative Learning by Utilizing Online Technology to Support Instruction, Collaboration, and Reflection. A roundtable session at the University College Teaching Conference, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (1995, May). A Change in Every Season - A Year of Parent Workshops for Your Early Childhood Program. A presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children annual conference, Cincinnati, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (1998, April). Teaching with Compassion. A presentation at the Mid-west Association for the Education of Young Children annual conference, Toledo, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (1999, April). Alphabet Soup for the Soul of the Early Childhood Teacher. A presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children annual conference, Cleveland, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2000, May). Hickory, Dickory, Dock.Transitions Around the Clock. A pre-conference presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children annual conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2005, April). Diving into Math with Children's Literature. A presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2005, April). Awakening the Spirit of the Early Childhood Professional. A presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2006, April). Is it OK to have Letter of the Week? Look Inside Yourself and Re-Connect with DAP. A presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2006, April). Voices of Experience- Friendship Across the Ages. Intergenerational Programs. A presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2006, April). The Essence of Leadership for Early Childhood Professionals. A presentation at the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K., & Brown, T. (2007, April). Developing and Implementing Individual Education Programs (IEPs) for Children with Moderate to Severe Disabilities. A presentation at the Ohio Early Care & Education Conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2007, April). What Do You Wonder? Nurturing a Spiritual Essence of Nature for Young Children. A presentation at the Ohio Early Care & Education Conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2008, April). Developing Effective & Emerging Leaders in Early Childhood. A presentation at the annual Ohio Early Care & Education Conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2009, May). The Wheels on the Bus Go Round & Round all Through the Town: Social Studies is Everywhere for Young Children! A presentation at the annual Ohio Early Care & Education Conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2009, May). Creating a Spiritual Early Childhood Environment: Five Activities to Nurture, Support, and Sustain All Young Children. A presentation at the annual Ohio Early Care & Education Conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2010, May). Playing, Learning, & Creating New Friendships = Peer-Mediated Intervention. A presentation at the annual Ohio Early Care and Education Conference, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (1998, November). The Association Development Process (ADP): Perception from States That Participated in this Future Planning Initiative. Presentation at the National Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Toronto, Canada.

  • Harris, K. (2002, November). Let's Celebrate Week of the Young Child in Your Early Childhood Program! Presentation at the National Association for the Education of Young Children conference, New York City, New York.

  • Harris, K. (2006, November). Let's Learn and Play Together! Promoting positive and supportive Relationships with young children using peer-mediated interventions. Presentation at the National Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Atlanta, Georgia.

  • Harris, K. (2007, April). Reconceptualizing Spirituality in Light of Educating Young Children. A paper presented at the Annual American Educational Research Association, Chicago, Illinois..

  • Harris, K. (2007, June). Ecopsychology and the Power of Play for Hospitalized Children. Presentation at the 25th Annual Child Life Council National Conference, Orlando, Florida.

  • Harris, K. (2007, November). How contemporary young children inspire, grow, and transform spirituality: Reconceptualizing spirituality in the light of educating young children. .Presentation at the annual National Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Chicago, Illinois.

  • Harris, K. (2008, November). Can I be your friend? Using children's literature and social stories to develop friendships and acceptance for all children. Presentation at the annual National Association for the Education of Young Children conference, Dallas, Texas.

  • Harris, K. (2009, June). Spirituality in Young Children. Presentation at the annual Mennonite Church USA Convention, Columbus, Ohio.

  • Harris, K. (2007, July). Generational Voices Across Student Engagement and Professional Development. Presentation at the Pi Lambda Theta International Leadership Conference, Richmond, Virginia.

  • Harris, K. (1996, November). Why Preschool and What to Look for in a Preschool. A presentation for parents of young children selecting a preschool program, Mentor Public Library Association, Mentor, Ohio.

Certifications

  • Ohio State Board of Education, 5-Year Professional Early Childhood (P-3) License 07/01/24-06/30/29

  • Professional Five-Year Teaching License, State of Ohio Teaching: Early Childhood (P-3) 2019-2024

Achievements

  • Seton Hill Child Service, Elected to Vice-President, Board of Directors, 2024

  • Consulting Editor for Young Children Journal, National Association for the Education of Young Children. Reappointed, 2024-2027

  • Selected as a member for the spring cohort 2024 for the The Awakening Schools Institute

  • Served as a Judge for the 2024 Golden Apple Awards for Teachers, "A Celebration of Catholic Schools," Catholic Diocese of Greensburg, March 14, 2024.

  • Served as a Judge for the 2022 Golden Apple Awards for Teachers, "A Celebration of Catholic Schools," Catholic Diocese of Greensburg, March 24, 2022

  • Seton Hill Child Services, Board of Directors 2022-2024

  • International Journal for Children's Spirituality • Editorial Board Member, 2020-Present

  • Early Childhood Education Leadership Council Board Member for Westmoreland County: 2019-Present

  • McMarliln, Shirley (2019, January 19). Kiddy Lit: Early reading programs giving learning a boost. Tribune-Review. Page A8, A9. Dr. Kathleen Harris: Requested interview; cited within article.

  • NAEYC Higher Education Recognition Audit Team Member, Governance & Leadership, July 2018-2021

  • Contributor to Policy Paper: "Advance Developmentally Appropriate Practice: How Young Children Learn," Trying Together, May 2018.

  • Serving as a committee member of the Seton Hill Children's Services Head Start Parent Policy Council, 2015-present. President of the Parent Policy Council, 2019-2021

  • Serving as Auditor for Higher Education Early Childhood Programs for NAEYC/CAPE: June 2016-June 2019

  • Serving as Co-Facilitator for the "Young Children's Spirituality Interest Forum" for the National Association for the Education of Young Children Board (NAEYC), 2013 - Present

  • Serving as Co-Chair of the Spirituality and Education SIG for AERA, 2014-2016

  • Treasurer for the Pennsylvania chapter of the National Association of Early Childhood Teacher Educators, 2013-2014

  • Peer-reviewer for the 2014 Early Education and Technology Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah

  • Bright Horizons, Pittsburgh: Advisory Board Member for Early Childhood representing Seton Hill University: January 2013 - present

  • Westmoreland County Community College Advisory Board Member for the WCCC Education/Pre-K - Grade 4 Program and WCCC Campus Children's Center: August 2011 - present

  • NAEYC Consulting Editor, for NAEYC Peer-Review Journal, Young Children: September 2012 - Present

  • Advisor for the Education Club at Seton Hill University: December 2011 - May 2018

  • Consulting Editor for the Advisory Board for Teaching Young Children, National Association for the Education of Young Children: September 2012 - September 2015.

  • Secretary/Treasurer for the Spirituality & Education SIG for the American Education Research Association (AERA): April 2012 - April 2014

  • NCATE Reviewer, Early Childhood Professional Education Review Panel Committee for the National Association for the Education of Young Children, 2004 - present

  • Special Interests Forums: Children's Spirituality, Technology, and Student Interests - National Association for the Education of Young Children: 2012-present

  • Pittsburgh Association for the Education of Young Children, Board of Directors: July 2011 - July 2017

  • Faculty Reviewer to pilot NEXT, a publication of Young Children, 2011

  • Division for Early Childhood, Co-chair of Practice Strand for the DEC Conference Committee Board for the Annual DEC International Conference 2011 in National Harbor, Maryland

  • American Educational Research Association, Peer-reviewer for 2012 conference & 2013 conference; Early Childhood Education

  • Higher Faculty Education Committee, Early Childhood Education, Pennsylvania; Faculty representative for Division of Education: September 2010 - present

  • Peer-review for Council for Exceptional Children international conference: 2010-present

  • International Journal of Children's Spirituality, Peer-reviewer: June 2010 - present

  • The Ohio Early Childhood Core Knowledge & Competencies Project, Ohio Department of Education, Family & Community Relations writing team committee member, 2006

  • Pi Lambda Theta Education Honor Society: International Vice President, 2005-2009

  • Reggio Emilia Study Group, Ohio Department of Education, Akron Study Group, 2003 - 2011

  • Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children: Vice President of Affiliates, 1999-2003; Editor of the Affiliate Action Newsletter, 1999-2003; Co-chair of the Membership Committee, 2004-2008; Chair of the Affiliate Development Process with NAEYC, 1998-2000; Chair, Week of the Young Child, 1997-2000.