1. Doctoral Dissertation Portfolio Doretha Clara Brown-Simpson “An Edifice with a Strong Foundation”

2. Introduction This doctoral dissertation portfolio was created as a culmination of the three year course of study as doctoral student in the Educational Leadership and Accountability Program at St. John’s University. The doctoral portfolio defense is synonymous to a comprehensive examination.

3. Personal Folio The Personal Folio encompasses information about my hobbies, beliefs, as well as photographs of my family. As a young women who is rooted and grounded with a heart for helping people and a love for learning, I have maintained my countenance in the midst of the trials in my life because I know who is the Source of my strength. I was reared in a household with strong matriarchal influence. My grandmother helped me to develop into the person I am today.

4. Professional Folio Throughout my career as a student, teacher, and school administrator, I have received guidance from those who knew what it takes to succeed in an ever- changing world. The solid foundation for my love of learning began in my primary school years. The collaborative relationships with colleagues in the field of education has proven to be a source of support and strength for me as I pursue my professional goals.

5. Learner Folio Learner is my most dominant strength according to the Strengths Finder Assessment Survey. This explains why I have become a Dietitian, Special Education Teacher, Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, and Principal. The doctoral program guides my thought processes while satisfying my zeal for knowledge and life-long learning.

6. Expert Folio This portion of the portfolio depicts how I have applied what is learned in theory to practical setting. Professional development activities and affiliations with professional associations helps me to develop a sense of belonging and involvement within the education profession. The building blocks are formed to improve the profession, as well as my career.

7. Scholar Folio This portion of my portfolio highlights my thoughts for the dissertation research project. The theorist involved with small schools research are in accordance with the foundation for the success high school (collaborative relationships among teachers, reduced class size, increasing student engagement in schools, and reallocating financial resources to support the vision. These are just a few of the findings that researchers believe will change the rise of failing high schools across the United States.

8. Final Thoughts I wish to thank all of my professors for providing me with the opportunity to gain a higher level of thinking about education and life. This doctoral program has laid addition solidification to the edifice that lies within me. As I continue to journey as a learner, I will embrace the teachings and share my knowledge to strengthen the foundation for others.