This academic school year, 2023-2024, Leslie is a Special Education Teacher and teaches College Prep English at Abilene High School.  She is a National Board Certified Teacher and was a 2021-2022 Education Policy Fellow. She is beginning her 13th year in education. Leslie holds a bachelor's degree from Schreiner University and a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Concordia University's campus in Austin, Texas. Leslie was the founding force and inaugural President of the  nonprofit Texas National Board Coalition for Teaching(501(c)(3). She also serves as a member on the Board of Directors for Nevada National Board Professional Learning Institute. She has held various positions as a special educator across content areas, taught 6th grade math,as well as and Secondary English Language Arts courses.   In 2018, Leslie was honored as the ESC Region 15 Elem. Teacher of the Year. Her advocacy work has been extensive locally, statewide, and nationally for national board certification, teacher preparation standards, and equity. She has served as a local new teacher mentor, as well as a statewide cohort facilitator and national critical friend.  Currently, Leslie also mentors teachers in ESC Region 14 & 15 who are pursuing their National Board Certification.