Laura Rouse holds a Certificate of Advanced Study (2017) and Ed.D. (2022) in Educational Leadership from Syracuse University School of Education. Her doctoral dissertation—”Unveiling the Unmarked Implications for Culturally Responsive Educational Leadership”—explores the ways Whiteness exists in predominately White rural pre-K through grade 12 public education.
In 2024, Rouse founded Supernal Insights LLC, an educational consulting business. Reflecting more than 20 years of experience as a teacher, building leader, and district leader, Rouse supports educators—especially in rural school settings—by providing tailored professional development, curriculum guidance, and data analysis to promote equitable, systemic change.
Rouse also has authored an educational guidebook—Educational Leader’s Guide to a Culturally Responsive Presence (2024)—to help leaders create supportive settings where all students can thrive.
Describe your current role and its responsibilities.
I am thrilled to have launched my educational consulting company, Supernal Insights LLC, in 2024. My mission is to support educators in meeting the needs of every student, with a growing emphasis on empowering rural schools through innovative evaluation and insights. I offer a range of services designed to assist educators in private and public schools, as well as non-profit organizations, on their educational journey.
How did the School of Education prepare you for this role?
The exceptional courses and inspiring professors at SOE made my time there one of the best experiences in my professional career. That foundation equipped me with the tools to launch Supernal Insights LLC, write and publish my first book, and deliver a keynote address—steps I couldn’t have taken otherwise. It opened a multitude of opportunities I believe wouldn’t have been possible without that preparation.
“The exceptional courses and inspiring professors at SOE made my time there one of the best experiences in my professional career.”
What current trends do you see in your specialty and how are you addressing them?
Currently, I see rural schools navigating a shifting academic landscape, driven by updated standards, technology integration, and evolving student needs—a trend I’m committed to addressing as an advocate, shaped by my own school experiences and more than 20 years as an educator in schools with rural ties.
Through my work, I’ve developed a new educational evaluation process and launched the “Your School’s Story” initiative, showcasing what these schools accomplish. Teachers and leaders do amazing things, yet much of their efforts seem to go unnoticed.
My approach uses quantitative and qualitative data to highlight their strengths and identify growth opportunities, helping rural schools meet today’s academic demands.
Which professors stood out for you most as a student at SOE?
All of my professors at SOE were exceptional, and I learned so much from each of them. However, four stood out the most: professors George Theoharis, Courtney Mauldin-Jones, Barbara Applebaum, and Joseph Shedd. Their knowledge, guidance, and expertise were instrumental in shaping who I am today.
Make a pitch for SOE—why should a prospective student choose the School of Education?
If you’re passionate about learning, making a meaningful impact in education, and becoming the best version of yourself, the School of Education is the place for you. Incredible opportunities await—SOE offers an exceptional environment to grow and succeed!