Erzsie MERA

Honoring the rhythm children bring to the classroom. Bridging research to best practices

About Elisabeth

Experience
Assessment Administrator, Westat (on behalf of NAEP) (2026)
Administered the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) across K–12 schools throughout Washington State, coordinating with school and district administrators to ensure accurate, standardized data collection. Adapted to diverse school environments and technical conditions, bringing the flexibility and problem-solving skills essential for field-based research. Collaborated with cross-functional teams to resolve logistical challenges and maintain assessment integrity across all sites.


Program Coordinator, Seattle Reading Partners (2024-2025)
Delivered evidence-based reading instruction. Conducted diagnostic assessments, adapted instructional strategies, and translated data into clear recommendations for administrators and families. Collaborated with school staff and community partners to align literacy initiatives with school-wide goals.


Para-Reserve, Cross Country Education (2023-2024)
Adapted curriculum and implemented IEPs for students with cognitive and learning disabilities across K–12 settings, using assessment data to inform daily instructional modifications. Collaborated with special education teams, parents, therapists, and administrators to ensure coordinated, evidence-based support for diverse learners.


Research Assistant, University of Washington Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences (2018-2019)
Supported neuroscience research. Assisted with participant coordination, protocol development, and research database management. Maintained data integrity and procedural accuracy.


Toastmaster, Toastmasters International (2009-2023)
Earned competency recognition in Presentation Mastery, Engaging Humor,Strategic Communication, and Visionary Communication. Demonstrated leadership skills by holding key roles including Club Secretary, Club Treasurer, Club VP of Education, Club VP of Public Relations, Club President, and Area Director. Actively contributed to the growth and development of club members. Competed in various Toastmasters competitions. Continuously improved public speaking and leadership skills through club meetings, evaluations, and workshops. Demonstrated a commitment to personal and professional growth.


Education
PhD, Learning Analytics in K–12 Education (ABD, Expected December 2026) — National University
Dissertation: Sustainability of General Music Programs in Title I Elementary Schools in the Pacific Northwest


MS, Educational Psychology — Capella University

Skills
Qualitative Research Design & Methods
Developed through doctoral coursework and dissertation research at National University


Policy Analysis & Document Review
Honed through dissertation research analyzing School Improvement Plans and federal education policy, including the historical arc from ESEA through ESSA and its implications for arts education funding in high-poverty schools.


School Improvement Research
Grounded in years of direct experience and deepened through doctoral research focused on the institutional and relational factors that sustain equitable programming in under-resourced settings.


Stakeholder Engagement
Developed through direct collaboration with school administrators, teachers, and community partners across Title I schools and further refined through doctoral research involving multi-stakeholder interviews with educators, district personnel, and community members.


Report Writing for Policy Audiences
Practiced through progress reporting for administrators and families and translating complex research findings into accessible, evidence-based recommendations for education practitioners and policymakers.

Interests
Travel
Enthusiastic about cultural awareness with travels to Central and South America and Europe.


Music
A lifelong music lover from live concerts to the karaoke mic with a firsthand appreciation for music’s power to shape mood, connection, and emotional well-being.


Community Involvement
Committed to giving back to the community through volunteer work and civic engagement, supporting local causes and initiatives that make a positive impact in Seattle and beyond.