Parisa Loftis Hamm
SME/AI – Research
Parisa is a dedicated K-12 educator and former education researcher with over seven years of experience spanning teaching, education policy, program evaluation, and capacity-building. Currently an elementary school teacher focused on mathematics, Parisa is passionate about making math both approachable and engaging, helping students build confidence and a strong foundation for future learning. After several years at the systems level, she is excited to return to the classroom, bringing both research-based practices and the insights she has gained to create an engaging and supportive learning environment.
In her previous role as a Research Associate, Parisa led and supported initiatives in education policy and youth development, including projects on teacher leadership, early childhood education, the improvement of teacher pathways and preparation programs, and the enhancement of summer and out-of-school time programming. Parisa holds a Master’s in Education Policy and Analysis from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, along with a California Multiple Subject Clear/Level II teaching credential and a Virginia Elementary Education Postgraduate Professional License.
Parisa’s experience as an Air Force spouse has shaped her perspective on education and deepened her commitment to supporting military families. She has served in leadership roles as a key spouse liaison for a squadron and as a Board Member of a spouse’s club, and has been recognized for her volunteer service. During graduate school, she interned with an Assistant Superintendent in a district serving a nearby military base, gaining insight into the educational needs of military-connected students. Her own journey navigating frequent relocations and the complexities of transferring professional licensure while raising a child has given her firsthand understanding of the unique challenges military families face. These experiences have inspired her volunteer work with Partners in PROMISE, where she lends her research and education background to support military-connected families with special education resources and advocacy.
