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Meredith Mehra

Deputy Chief at The School District of Philadelphia

Meredith Mehra is the Deputy Chief of Teaching and Learning for The School District of Philadelphia, a role she has held since 2014. Her career in education has been marked by a commitment to improving instruction and creating opportunities for both students and educators in Philadelphia.

Career Path

Mehra's journey in education began after a change of heart during her senior year of college. Initially planning to attend medical school, she instead chose to pursue teaching:

  1. Started as a math teacher at Thomas FitzSimons High School in Philadelphia through Teach for America
  2. Moved to a KIPP charter school to gain leadership skills
  3. Advanced to principal at KIPP over five years
  4. Returned to The School District of Philadelphia in 2014 as director of teacher coaches
  5. Rose to her current position as Deputy Chief of Teaching and Learning

Responsibilities and Initiatives

In her current role, Mehra oversees several key areas:

  • Teacher professional development for the district
  • Curriculum implementation, including the recent adoption of a science of reading-based curriculum
  • Oversight of instructional coaching and teacher leadership programs

She has been instrumental in revamping professional development practices within the district, focusing on:

  • Providing opportunities for educators to reflect on their experiences
  • Implementing data-driven progress monitoring
  • Enhancing new hire orientation to include equity, classroom management, and instructional practices

Educational Background

Mehra holds a degree from Penn GSE (Graduate School of Education), which she obtained in 2007 through a partnership with Teach for America.12

Philosophy and Approach

Mehra's work is characterized by:

  • A focus on creating choices and opportunities for students
  • Emphasis on high-quality professional development that models effective teaching practices
  • Belief in the importance of reflection and data analysis for educators
  • Commitment to improving instruction to accelerate student achievement

Her approach to education leadership is driven by a sense of urgency to improve outcomes for urban students, while also recognizing the need for educators to have time to process and reflect on their experiences.23

Highlights

Jul 26 · chalkbeat.org
New Philadelphia curriculum is based on the science of reading
Nov 18 · zippia.com
The School District of Philadelphia CEO And Leadership - Zippia
The School District of Philadelphia CEO And Leadership - Zippia
May 12 · gse.upenn.edu
Urban Impact: Penn GSE Alumni Lead and Innovate
Urban Impact: Penn GSE Alumni Lead and Innovate

Related Questions

What inspired Meredith Mehra to transition from teaching to leadership roles?
How has Meredith Mehra's experience at KIPP charter schools influenced her approach to education?
What specific challenges did Meredith Mehra face when implementing the new curriculum in Philadelphia?
How does Meredith Mehra's role as Deputy Chief of Teaching and Learning impact teacher professional development?
What are some key strategies Meredith Mehra has implemented to improve reading proficiency in Philadelphia schools?
Meredith Mehra
Meredith Mehra, photo 1
Meredith Mehra, photo 2
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Location

Greater Philadelphia Area