Tricia Crafton currently serves as the Coordinator for School Improvement/Title I in the Title I - Program Improvement Office at the Maryland Department of Education (MSDE). Tricia works directly with schools and local school systems with Comprehensive Support and Improvement (CSI) Schools and is the Title I, Part A point of contact for several local school systems. Prior to joining MSDE, Tricia enjoyed her roles as a biology teacher, science department head, assistant principal, and principal in Baltimore City Public School System. Tricia has a deep commitment to school improvement work in all schools and increased student achievement for all students.

Dr. Gail Clark Dickson is the Section Chief/Supervisor, Title I – Program Improvement, Division of Curriculum, Instructional Improvement, and Professional Learning for the Maryland State Department of Education. Dr. Dickson provides leadership and oversight supporting schools and local school systems implementing school improvement initiatives ensuring quality instructional practices and compliance with state and federal guidelines. Prior to joining MSDE, Dr. Dickson held leadership positions at ASCD, McREL, as well as the Kentucky Department of Education, and Fayette County Public Schools in Lexington, KY. She holds a Doctorate in Education Leadership and Policy Studies from Bowie State University. Dr. Dickson’s professional journey has focused on student equity, access and excellence.

Paula is the Director, Title I Program Improvement and Family Support Division of Curriculum, Instructional Improvement, and Professional Learning for the Maryland State Department of Education. Paula has held a number of instructional and leadership positions in two of Maryland’s Local School Systems. Most of her career has been dedicated to ensuring effective support for schools implementing Title I funded initiatives. Paula views herself as a lifelong learner and believes in nurturing and building the capacity of principals, teachers and parents to improve the conditions of teaching and learning for students and all community stakeholders.