Ashley Nelson

Education & Training Specialist II

Anita Zucker Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Studies

ashleynelson@ufl.edu

Biography

Ashley joined the Anita Zucker Center in 2025 as an education and training specialist II. Her work at the center focuses on professional learning and Practice-Based Coaching. She comes to the center from Alachua County Public Schools, where she was the lead teacher in an inclusive kindergarten classroom. In that role, Ashley developed and delivered engaging, data-informed lessons that used effective instructional and interactive practices to support the learning and development of young children.

Before her teaching role, Ashley served as a family liaison specialist under the Alachua County Head Start program. In this position, she conducted thorough assessments of family needs, identified areas requiring intervention or assistance, monitored the effectiveness of provided interventions and helped families navigate complex systems, including health care, education and housing. She has also worked in the child care sector as a lead teacher in a classroom for 3-year-olds.

With more than 10 years of experience supporting children and families, Ashley is committed to ensuring the success of young children, their families and early childhood educators.

Selected Links

Anita Zucker Center for Excellence in Early Childhood