Research Interests
learning of studentsemotional and behavioral disordersurban classroomspositive classroom communitiesteachers
Opportunities
Work Study Positions Available: No
Grant Funded Positions Available: No
Course-Credit Research Opportunities Available: No
Volunteer Research Positions Available: No
Biography
Dr. Verden was born and raised in England and left the country to attend West Chester University as a first-year student in 1983. She graduated from West Chester with a B.S. degree and then attended Temple University where she graduated with a Master's degree in Therapeutic Recreation. Dr. Verden worked in a variety of capacities for a non-profit agency in Philadelphia providing supports to children and adults with developmental disabilities and challenging behaviors for twelve years. Dr. Verden then returned to the classroom as a teacher in the School District of Philadelphia where she taught children in grades 3-8 with emotional and behavioral disorders. While teaching Dr. Verden pursued a doctorate degree in special education from Arcadia University and conducted research around using literature as a tool to promote social problem solving skills in urban youth. Dr. Verden has also worked as a behavior management specialist for a local intermediate unit providing behavioral supports to teachers and students with a wide range of disabilities as well as those in general education classrooms. Her research interests include strategies to support the learning of students with emotional and behavioral disorders, preparing teachers to work in urban classrooms and building positive classroom communities. Away from the University, Dr. Verden is kept busy with two young daughters who are involved in a myriad of school and community activities. She also attempts to maintain her love of English football (soccer). Dr. Verden serves as the faculty advisor for the WCU chapter of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC).
