Student Spotlight: Kristin Tester
Kristin Tester’s history with Lehigh University spans over two decades. Her journey began in 2002 when she entered the School Psychology graduate program. During her first semester, conducting assessments, behavioral consultation, and instruction in disabilities and life skills classrooms, she fell in love with the classroom. Tester switched her focus, earning her master's degree in Special Education from Lehigh in 2005.
While she loved her time as a classroom teacher, Kristin felt a calling to expand her impact.
"I loved classroom teaching, and while I was fulfilled as a classroom teacher, my goal became to reach beyond the walls of my classroom to impact the lives of children. I want to positively influence more students by supporting and developing the educators who serve them."
As a program and training specialist at the Bucks County Intermediate Unit #22, Tester collaborates with central office teams, building leaders, and classroom teachers across the county. Her days are spent analyzing data, allocating resources, and developing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and schoolwide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).
After years of work in the field, Tester returned to Lehigh in 2023 to pursue her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction Certification.
"A part of my heart will always be a special educator. I chose Lehigh in 2002 and again in 2023 because of the University’s commitment to bridging research and practice. While research is essential, its true impact lies in meaningful application."
A Culture of Support
When looking for a doctoral program, Tester sought an environment that championed multiculturalism and student support. She found that community before she even took her first class. This intentional culture of connection reassured Tester that she was joining a community that truly cared about the success and well-being of its individual students.
Guided by Experts, Inspired by Community
For Kristin, the true strength of Lehigh’s College of Education (COE) lies in its people. She credits the faculty for not only possessing world-class expertise but also invaluable, real-world practical experience.
Tester stands on the shoulders of experts who helped shape her educational path. She offers her deepest gratitude to Ed Shapiro, Linda Bambara, Lee Kern, and Lana Edwards-Santoro for inspiring her early career, as well as Craig Hochbein and Brian Osbourne for their guidance and support throughout her current doctoral journey.
Fueled by Family and Passion
When she isn't hard at work at the IU or attending night classes, Kristin lives a vibrant, beautifully chaotic life surrounded by her supportive family. She is a proud sports mom (juggling soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, basketball, swim, and volleyball) and a proud dance mom.
Her favorite ways to recharge include roadtrips, reading, running, baking, yoga, puzzles, and attending concerts and musicals. Simple pleasures go a long way, too: her book club, long walks with her dog Leo, chocolate, and plenty of coffee.
Grateful for a Stellar Support System
Balancing a demanding career with a doctoral program and a busy family is made possible by a great support system, and Tester is quick to share the credit for her success. She is grateful for her friends, her IU team, her supervisor, and her parents, who step in to care for her children while she is in class.
Most of all, her journey is a love letter to her family: her husband, Josh, and her three daughters, Loralei, Violet, and Jocelyn.
"To my steadfast and supportive husband—thank you for your constant encouragement... for the cups of coffee, driving the girls to practices, helping with homework, and everything else on my Lehigh nights. And to my girls, everything I strive for is to show you what’s possible when you stay committed, work hard, and believe in yourself. I hope you always chase your dreams with confidence and courage."
