About

Dr. Amber Spears is an Associate Professor of literacy methods in the College of Education at Tennessee Tech University. Dr. Spears began her career as an elementary school teacher and is licensed in multiple areas, including K–8 elementary education, PK–3 early childhood education, and PK–12 reading specialist. She actively contributes to the literacy profession and serves as the current President (Chair) of the Literacy Association of Tennessee (LAT). Over the course of her nearly two-decade career in education, Dr. Spears has focused on creating high-quality learning experiences for children, families, and communities, particularly during the summer months when school is not in session.  She currently serves as the Executive Director of the Elinor Ross CDF Freedom School. Through her work with LAT and Freedom School, Dr. Spears aims to make a lasting impact on literacy education and the lives of countless young children and families. For her work, she has received the Distinguished Literacy Professor of the Year Award (2018), the Hoyte Snow Literacy Leadership Award (2021), and ILA’s Celebrate Literacy Award (2023).

Degrees and Certifications

• PhD, Exceptional Learning: Literacy, Tennessee Tech University
• Ed.S, Curriculum & Instruction: Early Childhood Education, Tennessee Tech University
• MA, Curriculum & Instruction: Literacy, Tennessee Tech University
• BS, Multidisciplinary Studies, Tennessee Tech University