Malinda L. Pennington, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Special Education and Inclusive Learning program at Western Carolina University. Dr. Pennington received her doctorate in Curriculum & Instruction from NC State University. She has extensive experience working with students with autism, dyslexia, behavior disorders, ADHD, language impairments, intellectual disabilities, and developmental delays in settings from separate to full inclusion, grades K-12. Her previous educational roles include teacher, professional development provider, program specialist and special education program director. She has presented at state, national, and international conferences.
Dr. Pennington enjoys preparing teachers to work with students with disabilities in inclusive settings. Her areas of expertise include: Autism, learning disabilities, adolescence, transition, and evidence-based practices for behavior.
Her research interests include methods to better prepare general and special educators to meet the needs of students with unique learning needs in inclusive settings. Her current work focuses on providing beginning teachers with evidence-based practices to address behavioral concerns in the classroom.