Goodwin University is proud to welcome Dr. Scott Fellows, MS, Ed.D., as the new director of the Teacher Leadership (M.Ed.) program.
With over 35 years of teaching expertise, Dr. Fellows brings practical insights, a wealth of knowledge, and a student-centered approach to this role. His career reflects a steadfast commitment to improving teaching and learning — not only in individual classrooms, but across entire school communities.
Leading classrooms with purpose and perspective
Dr. Fellows spent the majority of his career serving generations of students across the six towns of Connecticut’s Regional School District 1, the state’s first regional district. As a seasoned classroom teacher, he taught middle and high school mathematics and served as the math department chair, helping to shape the curriculum and instructional practices across grade levels.
Although Dr. Fellows always loved mathematics, his passion for education extends far beyond any single subject. He was drawn to teaching by a desire to help students grow academically, emotionally, and personally. At the core of his philosophy is the belief that educators must meet students where they are to foster their potential.
This student-centered approach helped Dr. Fellows create inclusive learning environments and accessible spaces that give every student the opportunity to succeed — regardless of their starting point. He is also deeply invested in holistic approaches to teaching and assessment that recognize the whole learner, not just test scores or grades.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Fellows has held a range of district-level leadership roles, including assistant superintendent, interim principal, and interim superintendent, gaining extensive leadership experience and a comprehensive understanding of how school systems function at every level. He has also contributed to the field of higher education by teaching graduate-level courses at University of Hartford and serving on the advisory committee for Goodwin’s Teacher Leadership (M.Ed.) program since its inception.
His long-standing connection to the M.Ed. program gives him a unique perspective on its evolution — and its importance in preparing today’s educators for leadership roles.
Today’s classrooms need teachers with compassion and vision to lead modern learning. Ready to step up? Learn more about our M.Ed. program!
Preparing the teacher leaders of tomorrow
For Dr. Fellows, teacher leadership is about more than guiding students to success; it’s about shaping the big picture of what schools can become. He believes that earning an M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership equips educators to lead students and colleagues alike — strengthening school culture, improving instruction, and driving sustainable change.
Goodwin’s M.Ed. program — a joint program with University of Bridgeport — mirrors that vision. Bringing teachers from diverse backgrounds and different school districts, the program provides interdisciplinary and collaborative learning opportunities grounded in real-world classroom experiences.
As program director, Dr. Fellows aspires to help growing teachers gain practical insights into everyday classroom challenges, avoid common pitfalls faced by new educators, and build the confidence and leadership skills necessary to build a long-lasting career — ultimately supporting stronger teacher retention across school districts.
Putting students first
In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, Dr. Fellows advocates that teachers remain grounded in what matters most. “Keep kids at the forefront,” he advises. “If you always put students first, everything else becomes secondary.”
He also emphasizes the importance of social and emotional learning, self-awareness as a learner and leader, and a willingness to step outside the box — encouraging educators to try new approaches and inspire the same curiosity and courage in their students.
Goodwin University congratulates Dr. Fellows on his new appointment and looks forward to the impact his guidance will have on the M.Ed. program and the educators it serves. With his deep experience, thoughtful approach, and unwavering commitment to students, Dr. Fellows is poised to help shape the next generation of teacher leaders across Connecticut and beyond.
Your journey to teacher leadership begins with Goodwin. Learn more about our M.Ed. program today!
Bri Gagné is a content developer at Goodwin University, bringing backgrounds in literary studies, creative storytelling, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and social justice. They earned their bachelor’s degree in English Literature, Film Studies, and Gender Studies from University of Connecticut and a master’s in Elementary Education from Eastern Connecticut State University.
After teaching English abroad and locally, Bri transitioned to a full-time writing career, contributing to the University’s educational narratives and brand-building efforts. They are currently earning their Master of Fine Arts in Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing at Emerson College.