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Dr. Alica Benton received her PhD in curriculum & instruction in 2018 from Louisiana State University. She earned a master’s degree in reading and learning exceptionalities from Appalachian State University. In 2000 she became a National Board-Certified Teacher in Early Childhood.  She has spent much of her career as an elementary school educator and mentor teacher.

Dr. Benton is an assistant professor for the Early Childhood and Elementary Grades 1-5 Programs in the School of Education and teaches literacy and child development courses for both programs. Her research interests focus on literacy practices in K-6 schools, language development, foster care, and attachment issues.