
"My students didn't know the meaning or impact of the N-word so I wrote a book about hate speech."
Keely R. Cooke, Ed.D.
Transformational Leader and Advocate for Equity in Education
Author: Dr. Keely Cooke is a published author and veteran educator with over 30 years of experience championing equity, diversity, and inclusion in education. Her book, Worse Than a Curse, empowers young readers to confront the impact of hate speech and cultivate respect for others, reflecting her dedication to fostering inclusive learning environments.
Instructional Leader: An advocate for systemic change, Dr. Cooke works with the Maryland State Department of Education to implement the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and identify best practices for school improvement. She has also led initiatives to address inequities in special education, ensuring all students receive the support they need to thrive.
Teacher Development: Dr. Cooke’s expertise spans instructional leadership and teacher development. She has designed professional development programs on culturally responsive practices, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and evidence-based literacy instruction. As an adjunct professor at Towson University at the Universities of Maryland Shady Grove, she has prepared current and aspiring educators to lead with excellence in diverse classrooms.
Administrator: As the first African-American female administrator of Rosemont Elementary School in Montgomery County Public Schools, Dr. Cooke has transformed outcomes for African American, Hispanic, multilingual, and special education students. Through her visionary leadership, she has created a culture of trust, collaboration, and innovation, closing achievement gaps and inspiring lasting change.