Photo caption: (left to right) College of Education & Human Development Dean Paul Alberto, scholarship recipient LaKisha Stanley and Brendan Calandra, chair of the Department of Learning Sciences, pose for a photo on stage at the college's 2026 Scholars Recognition Luncheon.
story by Susan Fishman
As a teacher of the deaf for more than 20 years, LaKisha Stanley has seen firsthand how gaps in training, resources and collaboration can directly impact students’ educational outcomes.
“Students who are both deaf and disabled are often overlooked in educational research and practice,” she said. “Yet they rely heavily on effective communication access to learn, participate and thrive in school.”
After her children were grown, Stanley went back to school to get her master’s degree in education. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree, with a research focus on educational interpreters who work with K-12 students who are deaf or hard of hearing and have additional disabilities. Her work examines how interpreters navigate their roles, collaborate with teachers and support students’ language development, independence and inclusion.
“I am pursuing this degree to help address the gaps and contribute research that can inform better preparation, policies and support systems for professionals serving this population,” she said.
Stanley’s commitment has earned her the Glenn A. Vergason Scholarship for Special Education. The scholarship is awarded to graduate students who are pursuing an M.Ed. or Ph.D. in the Department of Learning Sciences with plans to teach or serve those students in special education who have behavioral disorders.
“This scholarship eases a significant financial burden and allows me to focus more fully on my coursework, research and professional development,” Stanley said. “It is making a meaningful difference – not only in my life, but in the lives of the students and families I hope to serve through my work.”
In her current role as a program support specialist, Stanley supports teachers and interpreters who work with students by providing resources and guidance. With only four years until retirement, Stanley would like to finish her work in Cobb County and then teach at the collegiate level.
“I understand that each student is different,” she said . “I also understand that the teachers and staff who provide services for them also require that nurturing care. They need to be heard and protected. I advocate for the students, but also the professionals who are with the students daily in the academic setting.”