Dr. Kirsten Allman

 I am currently an Executive Director of Special Programs in a Texas school district. the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of EmpowerEd Partnerships. My mindset and approach are driven by the belief that we all hold a fire within us—one that, when unleashed, empowers educators to transform the educational journey for students and families. Through the services and support we provide, I am committed to helping others pursue their dreams and flourish. I believe in the power of partnerships and in empowering all stakeholders to ensure students' success. My vision is to create communities that tap into everyone’s talents and inner fire—and unleash it.

I hold a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Sam Houston State University, a Master of Education in Special Education, and a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Stephen F. Austin State University. I am a certified Texas Principal and hold multiple teaching certifications, including Special Education (K-12), Emotional Disturbance/Autism (K-12), and Secondary Reading (4-8). 

With a background in teaching and educational leadership, I have served special education and general education, along with executive-level roles in multiple school districts, including Klein ISD, Humble ISD, and Spring ISD. As an Executive Director of Special Programs, I have successfully led large-scale special education initiatives, ensured compliance with state and federal regulations, developed strategic plans, and managed finances for programs serving thousands of students and families.

I also have experience in higher education, having served as an Assistant Professor at the University of St. Thomas, where I taught undergraduate and graduate courses in special education. I have designed and implemented professional learning programs for educators and administrators at both the district and university levels. 

I am recognized for my expertise in special education law, strategic program development, and leadership training/development. My ability to drive system-wide change through innovative practices has made me a sought-after consultant, speaker, and trainer at the local, state, national, and international levels. As part of IEP teams, I have served in a dual role—both representing the local education administrator and advocating for families seeking to partner with schools to ensure their students receive the appropriate services. 

I have contributed to peer-reviewed research on school discipline, inclusive education, and special education leadership. I have presented at major educational conferences, including the Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE), Texas Council of Administrators of Special Education (TCASE), and RTM National Conferences. Additionally, I have delivered keynote presentations and workshops for teachers, special education leaders, and superintendents on topics such as inclusive practices, equitable learning, and reimagining special education services. Most recently, I delivered the keynote "Empowering Dreams: Unleash the Fire" at the 2024 RTM National Superintendent Conference.

Throughout my career, I have remained dedicated to ensuring every student flourishes by empowering educators, advocating for families, and fostering sustainable change in education. Through EmpowerEd Partnerships, I continue to shape the future of education by building innovative, inclusive, and self-sustaining ecosystems where students and educators thrive.