Sharon Shapses holds a M.S in early childhood education from Bank Street College of Education, as well as a certificate in coaching from New York University. She draws from more than 50 years of experience in the field of early childhood development and education, formerly serving as a NYC public school teacher, preschool director, parent educator, and adjunct assistant professor. She worked at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence for 13 years as an early childhood and parent education consultant and master trainer. Sharon was on the team that developed RULER K-2 and RULER Preschool.

Currently, she is employed by Starfactor Coaching, coaching school leaders in NYC to develop and utilize their emotional intelligence skills to enhance their effectiveness and create a school culture that works for a diverse population. She is a consultant at Oregon State University’s Early Childhood Learning Initiative, developing professional development resources for the early childhood community. One of the goals of her work is to develop resources; and professional development for early childhood professionals that integrate culturally responsive and trauma-informed research. She hopes to shine a light on how building appreciative relationships positively impact learning in adults and children.

Sharon serves on the Advisory Board of Reach Out and Read. Her interests include yoga, Buddhism, pilates, reading, gardening, attending theater and modern dance, being in nature, meditating, and spending time with family (five grandchildren), friends, and her dog Dexter.