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Mariko Owen

@marikoowen

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Mission-driven education leader with 30+ years of experience.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that allows me to lead impactful educational initiatives and foster inclusive learning environments.

I am a mission-driven education leader with over 30 years of experience in designing, leading, and scaling professional learning programs for educators and school leaders. My work is centered on creating equitable and impactful educational initiatives that align with community needs and academic standards. I have a proven track record in coaching, talent development, and operational execution, which has allowed me to foster inclusive communities and drive continuous improvement in program outcomes.

Throughout my career, I have led strategic design and delivery of comprehensive educational programming for diverse age groups, from early learning to teen programs. My experience includes managing city-wide initiatives and cultivating cross-sector partnerships that amplify our impact. I am committed to using data and stakeholder feedback to enhance educational practices and ensure that all learners have access to high-quality instruction.

As an independent contractor, I have designed and delivered professional development frameworks for early childhood and library professionals statewide, focusing on equity-centered adult learning. My role as an adjunct faculty member has further allowed me to integrate adult learning principles with equity-centered teaching strategies, preparing the next generation of educators to lead with excellence.

Throughout my career I have spearheaded and contributed to a range of peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, and professional publications that advance the fields of early childhood education, library science, and family engagement.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Coordinator – Early Learning, Youth & Teen Programming

Current

Scottsdale Public Library – City of Scottsdale

May 2015 - Present (10 years 2 months)

Led strategic design and delivery of comprehensive educational programming (0-18) aligned to academic standards and community need. Supervised, coached, and trained internal staff and community educators in instructional best practices and culturally responsive pedagogy.

Strategic Planning Curriculum Development Data Analysis Stakeholder Engagement Program Management

Independent Contractor

AZ State Library, Archives, & Public Records

Sep 2017 - May 2024 (6 years 8 months)

Designed and delivered professional development and coaching frameworks for early childhood and library professionals statewide. Facilitated equity-centered adult learning grounded in best practices and real-world application.

Professional Development Coaching Curriculum Design Equity Centered Education Strategic Education Initiatives

Interim Coordinator – Family Resource Center

Scottsdale Family Resource Center – City of Scottsdale

Feb 2022 - Aug 2023 (1 year 6 months)

Oversaw daily operations and strategic direction of a family-focused learning and support hub. Designed adult learning experiences and parenting workshops grounded in equity, child development science, and leadership development.

Program Management Curriculum Design Cross Functional Collaboration Equity Centered Design Child Development Leadership Development

Adjunct Faculty

Northern Arizona University

Sep 2015 - May 2017 (1 year 8 months)

Taught science methods for K-8 educators in a dual certification program. Integrated adult learning principles with equity-centered teaching strategies.

Science education Adult Learning Principles

Early Childhood Specialist/Teacher on Assignment

Mesa Public Schools

Feb 2013 - May 2015 (2 years 3 months)

Designed and led professional development for 80+ early educators focused on instructional quality and classroom leadership. Provided individualized coaching and feedback cycles aligned to Teaching Strategies GOLD and state standards.

Professional Development Coaching Instructional Design Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Program Specialist

AZ Dept. of Ed - EC/Head Start Stare Collaboration Office

Oct 2007 - Jul 2012 (4 years 9 months)

Directed statewide program implementation, technical assistance, and continuous improvement processes for early childhood initiatives. Developed systems and tools for coaching, data use, and standards-aligned professional development.

Program Implementation Standards Technical assistance Continuous Improvement Coaching Data Management Professional Development Training Delivery

Elementary Education Teacher

Paradise Valley Unified School District

Jul 1999 - Nov 2007 (8 years 4 months)

Delivered high-quality instruction aligned to Arizona State Standards. Led school-based initiatives focused on literacy and instructional equity.

Literacy Initiatives Instructional Equity Classroom Management

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Northcentral University

Ph.D., Early Education

Completed a doctoral program focused on Early Education. The curriculum emphasized advanced research and theoretical frameworks in early childhood development and learning.

Northcentral University

M.Ed., Educational Leadership

Pursued a Master of Education degree with a specialization in Educational Leadership. The program provided comprehensive knowledge in leading educational institutions and initiatives.