Dr. Shane Smith

Biography

Shane Smith is a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU Steinhardt, where he is part of the Teacher Residency Program. He received his initial teaching certification from Bethlehem Teachers' College in Jamaica, majoring in Secondary Math Science Education. He took a break from teaching mathematics in Jamaica to further his studies in the United States, earning both Bachelor's and Master's degrees in education and special education from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Shane taught in Milwaukee Public Schools before earning his PhD in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His expertise includes teacher preparation and educating students with learning and behavioral disabilities, applying his K-12 experience to engage pre-service teachers in problem-solving and reflective discourse about the educational challenges and opportunities for students with special needs. His research interests focus on postsecondary transition and mathematics education for students with high-incidence disabilities. Shane has conducted research exploring pre-service teacher education and preparation to work in diverse settings, inclusive of students with unique learning challenges. Before joining NYU, he worked as an Assistant Professor and Special Education Course Coordinator at the University of New Haven, where he led efforts to develop the special education program. Shane continues to integrate his K-12 experience into his work in higher education, focusing particularly on preparing teachers to work effectively in modern classrooms.

Research Interests

Experience