Proven Results
Measurable Impact
A Journey of Purpose
Dedicated to transforming education and empowering communities through authentic engagement
Verna Felder is an accomplished education leader, communications strategist, and founder of Urban School Transformation LLC, dedicated to improving outcomes for students and families in urban school systems. With more than two decades of experience in the Service Learning School District, she has served as a Teacher, Mentor, Media Specialist, and Communications Director, bringing a comprehensive understanding of K–12 education systems and operations. Verna holds a Master of Science in Strategic Communication Leadership, a degree in Organizational Management, and a K–12 Grade School Administrator Certification. She also earned a HarvardX Family Engagement Certificate, strengthening her expertise in building effective school-family partnerships. Her contributions to literacy, community engagement, and educational leadership have been recognized with the Education 2.0 Award and the Spirit of Detroit Award, reflecting her impact, innovation, and commitment to educational excellence.
Verna is widely recognized for developing culturally responsive strategies that strengthen communication, deepen family engagement, and build trust in urban communities. During the 2020 pandemic, she transformed her field experience into a practical communications toolkit now used by educators and organizations. She is the Co-Creator of Can You Survive Poverty? The Game, an immersive professional learning experience that challenges perspectives and builds empathy. Through Urban School Transformation LLC, Verna partners with schools to improve culture, systems, and outcomes. Her work is grounded in service, accountability, and a firm belief that every student deserves access to a high-quality education and the opportunity to thrive.
Global Education 2.0 Recognition
Recognized as an award recipient by Education 2.0 Conference for outstanding contributions to innovation and excellence in education.
Spirit of Detroit
Honored with the Spirit of Detroit Award for exceptional community service and impact.
HarvardX Certificate
Completed Family Engagement Certificate from HarvardX, advancing expertise in urban education.
Trust is not a soft skill — it’s the foundation of academic achievement.
– Verna Felder
True Masterpiece
My BOOK
Working in an urban school community requires more than policy manuals and good intentions — it requires courage, cultural competence, and real-world strategy.
What do you do when a parent arrives to chaperone a field trip smelling of marijuana?
How do you de-escalate an enraged parent shouting in your main office?
How do you respond when a student walks into class with a bed bug crawling on their shirt?
In Did You Bring a Bed Bug to School Today? How to Cultivate an Emotionally Safe Environment for Students in Urban Communities, a 20-year Detroit public school veteran offers honest stories, practical tools, and proven strategies drawn directly from lived experience inside urban schools. Blending heartfelt storytelling with actionable templates and best practices, this book equips educators, nonprofit leaders, and community advocates to build emotionally safe, academically focused environments where students and families feel seen, supported, and respected.
Both engaging and deeply practical, this guide serves as a professional development resource for anyone committed to strengthening school culture, integrating social-emotional supports, and leading with empathy in high-need communities.
If you are ready to transform your school or organization into a culture where academic excellence and holistic student support go hand in hand, this book is your blueprint.
