Dr. Freeman has over 20 years of experience in public education at the K-12 and higher education levels. She is currently an associate professor in educational psychology at the University of Connecticut, and a technical assistance director for the Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Her work focuses on applying multi-tiered systems of support such as PBIS to improve overall school climate and a sense of belonging for students and educators. She is particularly interested in improving graduation rates for students with behavioral and/or mental health disorders. She also studies professional development methods for improving teacher’s use of evidence-based classroom management strategies and teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in the special education program. Dr Freeman leads a national crisis preparation response and recovery workgroup within the Center on PBIS and has 10 years of experience supporting schools, districts, and states in recovery efforts following incidents of school or community violence. This work focuses on supporting short- and long-term recovery efforts as well as prevention and preparation efforts at the district and state levels.