November 2023

Matt Townsley, Ed.D.

Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership
University of Northern Iowa
Schindler Education Center 601D
Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0604
(319) 273-3564 | matt.townsley@uni.edu

EDUCATION

2017 Ed.D., School Improvement, University of West Georgia

2012 Advanced Studies Certificate, Educational Leadership, University of Northern Iowa
2009 M.Ed., Curriculum and Instructional Technology, Iowa State University
2004 B.A., Math Education, Wartburg College

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

2018 - Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership, University of Northern Iowa

2018 Adjunct Instructor, College of Education, University of West Georgia
2016 - 2017 Adjunct Instructor, School of Education, Drake University
2010 - 2018 Director of Instruction & Technology, Solon Community Schools, Solon, IA
2008 - 2014 Math Facilitator, Kirkwood High School Distance Learning, Cedar Rapids, IA
2004 - 2010 High School Math Teacher, Solon Community Schools, Solon, IA

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

2023 College of Education Scholarship Award, University of Northern Iowa

2017 Central Office Administrator of the Year, School Administrators of Iowa
2017 School Improvement Dissertation of the Year, University of West Georgia
2017 Achievement in Education Award, Optimist Club of Solon, IA
2014 Emerging Leader, ASCD
2012 Iowa K-12 Administrator of the Year, ITEC

SCHOLARSHIP & DISCOVERY

Books [4 total; 3 published while at UNI; 1 currently under contract]

1. Schimmer, T., Knight, M., & Townsley, M. (under contract). Grading reform that lasts: Eight steps
for transforming your school’s assessment culture. Solution Tree.
2. Townsley, M., & Lang, C. (2023). A parents' guide to grading and reporting: Being clear about
what matters. Rowman & Littlefield.
3. Townsley, M. (2022). Using grading to support student learning. Routledge.
4. Townsley, M., & Wear, N. (2020). Making grades matter: Standards-based grading in a
secondary PLC at work. Solution Tree.

Peer-Reviewed Publications [30 total; 28 while at UNI; ^graduate student]

1. Wilcox, J., & Townsley, M. (accepted for publication). The standard answer: Considerations for
implementing standards-based grading in an NGSS-aligned science classroom. Science Scope.
2. Kashef, F., & Townsley, M. (2023). Onward in higher education: Business faculty perspectives
on authentic assessment. Journal of Research Initiatives. 7(2).
https://digitalcommons.uncfsu.edu/jri/vol7/iss2/8/
3. ^Griffin, R., & Townsley, M. (2022). Including homework and employability skills in class grades:
An investigation of equitable outcomes in an urban high school. Practical Assessment, Research,
and Evaluation, 27(1). https://scholarworks.umass.edu/pare/vol27/iss1/27/
4. Townsley, M., & Schmid, D. (2022). Faculty grading practices and competency-based education:
Challenges and a new opportunity. Voices of Reform. 5(1). https://doi.org/10.32623/5.00007
 Townsley CV, Page 2
5. Wilcox, J., & Townsley, M. (2022). Debunking myths of standards-based grading: Addressing the
concerns and providing some strategies for implementing alternative grading practices. The
Science Teacher, 90(1), 29-33.
6. Townsley, M. & Snyder, R. (2022). What are we talking about? Data use among education
leaders of change. International Journal of Educational Leadership Preparation, 17(1), 88-100.
7. ^Kress, D., & Townsley, M. (2022). Writing workshop and creativity despite standardization: An
exploration of elementary teachers’ practices. Journal of Research Initiatives, 6(1).
https://digitalcommons.uncfsu.edu/jri/vol6/iss2/5/
8. Townsley, M., & Kunnath, J. (2022). Exploring state department of education grading guidance
during COVID-19: A model for future emergency remote learning. Education Policy Analysis
Archives, 30(163). https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.30.7488
9. Skaar, N., Townsley, M., & ^Ross, B. (2022). Supporting students’ mental health needs: A primer
for secondary school administrators. NASSP Bulletin, 106(1), 32-54.
10. Schmid, D., Price-Williams, S., Anderson, M., & Townsley, M. (2023). Self-study in a
pandemic: Process, pedagogy, people, and publishing. Networks: An Online Journal for Teacher
Research, 24(1), Article 4. https://doi.org/10.4148/2470-6353.1362
11. Townsley, M. & Morton, B. (2022). Leaders are readers: What journals do public school
superintendents read? AASA Journal of Scholarship and Practice, 19(2), 8-25.
12. Schmid, D., & Townsley, M. (2022). Probation, practitioners, and pedagogy: Lessons learned
from self-study. Networks: An Online Journal for Teacher Research, 23(2), Article 3.
13. McNamara, S., Rizzo, T., & Townsley, M. (2021). School administrators’ intentions to promote
adapted physical education. NASSP Bulletin, 105(4), 276-292.
14. Lang, C., & Townsley, M. (2021). Improving teacher evaluation: Walking the talk of standards-
based grading. Journal of School Administration Research and Development, 6(2), 81-89.
15. Townsley, M., Waldron, J., Alborn-Yilek, S., Schares, D., Huckstadt, K., McNamara, S., & Gute,
D. (2021). School administrator experiences in a six-month health and wellness community of
practice. Journal of School Health, 91(10), 857-866.
16. ^Griffin, R., & Townsley, M. (2021). Points, points, and more points: Grade inflation and deflation
when homework and employability scores are incorporated. Journal of School Administration
Research and Development, 6(1), 1-11.
17. McNamara, S., Townsley, M., & Hangauer, K. (2021). School administrators and physical
educators: A scoping review of perceptions and partnerships from 2000-2020. Journal of School
Leadership, 32(2), 186-217.
18. Townsley, M., & McNamara, S. (2021). “I thought I was supposed to get an A in PE!” Successes
and challenges of teachers and administrators implementing standards-based grading in physical
education. Studies in Educational Evaluation, 70.
19. Guskey, T. R., Townsley, M., & Buckmiller, T. (2020). The impact of standards-based learning:
Tracking high school students’ transition to the university. NASSP Bulletin, 104(4), 257-269.
20. Townsley, M. (2020). Grading principles in pandemic-era learning: Recommendations and
implications for secondary school leaders. Journal of School Administration Research and
Development, 5(S1), 8-14.
21. Townsley, M., & Schmid, D. (2020). Alternative grading practices: An entry point for faculty in
competency-based education. Journal of Competency-Based Education, 5(3).
22. Buckmiller, T., & Townsley, M., & Cooper, R. (2020). Rural high school principals and the
challenge of standards-based grading. Theory and Practice in Rural Education, 10(1), 92-102.
23. Townsley, M. & Knight, M. (2020). Making change stick: A case study of one high school’s
journey towards standards-based grading. Journal of Educational Leadership in Action, 6(3).
24. Singh, B. & Townsley, M. (2020). Making sense of Georgia school leader evaluation: Climate,
engagement and the district office, Georgia Educational Researcher, 17(1).
25. Townsley, M. & Buckmiller, T. (2020). Losing As and Fs: What works for schools implementing
standards-based grading? Educational Considerations, 46(1).
26. Townsley, M., Buckmiller, T., & Cooper, R. (2019). Anticipating a second wave of standards-
based grading implementation and understanding the potential barriers: Perceptions of high
school principals. NASSP Bulletin,103(4), 281-299.
27. Townsley, M. (2019). Considering standards-based grading: Challenges for secondary school
leaders. Journal of School Administration Research and Development, 4(1), 35-38.
 Townsley CV, Page 3
28. Townsley, M. (2019). Walking the talk: Embedding standards-based grading in an educational
leadership course. Journal of Research Initiatives, 4(2).
29. Townsley, M. & Varga, M. (2018). Getting high school students ready for college: A quantitative
study of standards-based grading practices. Journal of Research in Education, 28(1), 92-112.
30. Peters, R., Kruse, J., Buckmiller, T., & Townsley, M. (2017) “It’s just not fair!” Making sense of
secondary students’ resistance to a standards-based grading initiative in the midwestern United
States. American Secondary Education, 45(3), 9-28.

Manuscripts in Progress [4 under review; 5 in progress]

1. Townsley, M., & McNamara, S. (under review). “PE is more than playing kick ball the entire
hour”: Using standards-based grading to elevate physical education’s status among preservice
physical educators.
2. Morton, B. & Townsley, M. (under review). Practical and timely: The journals public school
principals read.
3. Sauers, N., Townsley, M., & Richardson, J. (under review). Student assessment during COVID:
A view from the principal’s (virtual) desk.
4. Townsley, M. & Lang, C. (under review). Navigating math grading reforms: Key considerations
for educational leaders.
5. Townsley, M., Skaar, N., & ^Patton, T. (in progress). Standards-based grading: A primer for
school psychologists.
6. Townsley, M., Buckmiller, T., & Skaar, N. (in progress). Grading practices of aspiring principals.
7. Kunnath, J. & Townsley, M. (in progress). Impact of COVID-19 school closures on subsequent
grading reform efforts in K-12 schools.
8. Townsley, M., & Wilcox, J. (in progress). Standards-based grading: Core principles and
implementation debates.
9. Townsley, M., McNamara, S., Knight, M., & Hangauer, K. (in progress). Standards-based
grading scoping review.

Editor-Reviewed Publications [10 total; 4 while at UNI; ^graduate student]

1. Townsley, M. (2021). Grading in the midst of a pandemic. School Administrator, 78(5), 28-31.
2. Townsley, M., & Knight, M. (2020). Three big shifts for standards-based grades. ASCD Express,
16(2). Retrieved from http://www.ascd.org/ascd-express/vol16/num02/3-big-shifts-for-standards-
based-grades.aspx
3. ^Nikkel, C., & Townsley, M. (2020). Book review [Review of the book The Standards-Based
Classroom, by E. Rinkema and S. Williams]. Christian Educators Journal, 59(4). Retrieved from
https://www.cejonline.com/article/review-of-the-standards-based-classroom-make-learning-the-
goal/
4. Townsley, M. (2020). Standards-based grading implementation pitfalls to avoid in secondary
math. Iowa Council of Teachers of Mathematics Journal, 43, 11-15.
5. Townsley, M. (2018). Mastery-minded grading in secondary schools. School Administrator,
75(2), 16-21. Featured in the Marshall Memo 725.
6. Townsley, M. (2017). Three lessons for schools shifting their grading. School Administrator,
74(1), 27.
7. Townsley, M. (2015). Peter Miller: Building a districtwide PLC vision through repeated story.
Curriculum in Context, 41(1), 10-12.
8. Townsley, M. (2013). Redesigning grading -- districtwide. Educational Leadership, 71(4), 68-71.
Featured in the Marshall Memo 515.
9. Townsley, M. (2012). Differentiated technology professional development. Tech & Learning,
32(11), 66.
10. Townsley, M. (2008). A dynamic parallelogram investigation using Geometer’s Sketchpad. Iowa
Council of Teachers of Mathematics Journal, 35, 9-15.

Other Publications [22 total; 15 while at UNI]

1. Townsley, M., & Lang. C. (2023, October). 4 things we have learned while discussing grading
reform with parents. Iowa ASCD: The Source, 23(17).
2. Townsley, M. (2023, September). Book review: Cultures built to last: Systemic PLCs at work.
Iowa ASCD: The Source, 23(16).
 Townsley CV, Page 4
3. Townsley, M. (2023, January). Moving beyond initiative fatigue through establishing an "avoid at
all costs" list. Iowa ASCD: The Source, 23(1).
4. Townsley, M., & Skaar, N. (2022, November). Six considerations for supporting students’ mental
health needs. Iowa ASCD: The Source, 22(20).
5. Townsley, M. (2022). Leaders of change: Building capacity in others. Iowa ASCD: The Source,
22(18).
6. Townsley, M. (2022). Leaders are readers – but what are they reading? Iowa ASCD: The
Source, 22(16).
7. Townsley, M., & McNamara, S. (2021, April). Standards-based grading empowers physical
educators and enhances their teaching practices. Iowa ASCD: The Source, 21(8).
8. Townsley, M. (2020, December). Guest column: Overhaul the hodgepodge of grading practices
in Iowa. The Cedar Rapids Gazette. https://www.thegazette.com/subject/opinion/guest-
columnist/overhaul-the-hodgepodge-of-grading-practices-in-iowa-20201220
9. Townsley, M. (2020, December). Perspectives: How should Iowa schools grade during a
pandemic? https://coe.uni.edu/perspectives-how-should-iowa-schools-grade-during-pandemic
10. Townsley, M. (2020, March). Four steps for attacking professional learning fatigue.
ASCDEdvantage.
11. Townsley, M., Buckmiller, T., & Cooper, R. (2020, January). The second wave of standards-
based grading in Iowa’s secondary schools. Iowa ASCD: The Source, 20(1).
12. Townsley, M. (2019, October). Leaders of performance: Planning with the end in mind. Iowa
ASCD: The Source, 19(16).
13. Townsley, M. (2019, April). Leaders of relationship building: Listening is a part of leading. Iowa
ASCD: The Source, 19(7).
14. Townsley, M. (2018, October), Leaders of professional development: Moving towards a process
rather than event. Iowa ASCD: The Source, 18(15).
15. Townsley, M. (2018, September). Leaders of processes: Making every professional learning
opportunity count. Iowa ASCD: The Source, 18(13).
16. Townsley, M. (2017, December). Leaders of data analysis: More than crunching numbers. Iowa
ASCD: The Source, 17(21).
17. Townsley, M. (2017, November). What does it mean to be a leader of curriculum, instruction, and
assessment? Iowa ASCD: The Source, 17(20).
18. Townsley, M. (2017, November). Join us on the (curriculum) journey. Iowa ASCD: The Source,
17(19).
19. Townsley, M. (2017, January). So, you want to become a curriculum lead? Iowa ASCD: The
Source, 17(2).
20. Townsley, M. (2016, February). Attacking initiative fatigue. Iowa ASCD: The Source, 16(3).
21. Townsley, M. (2014, December). Smarter Balanced Assessments: Implications for Iowa school
leaders. Iowa ASCD: The Source, 14(21).
22. Townsley, M. (2014, November). State standards under review: Implications for school leaders.
Iowa ASCD: The Source, 14(20).

National Presentations [6 total; 5 while at UNI]

1. Wear, N., & Townsley, M. (2021). Making grades matter: PLCs and standards-based grading.
Presentation given at the Learning Forward Annual Conference, Virtual due to COVID-19.
2. Sauers, N., Townsley, M., & Richardson, J. (2021). Assessment and learning during COVID-19:
A view from tech savvy leaders. Paper accepted at UCEA 2021 Annual Convention, Columbus,
OH.
3. Wear, N., & Townsley, M. (2020). Making grades matter: Standards-based grading in a middle
school PLC. Presentation given at the Association for Middle Level Education Annual
Conference, Virtual due to COVID-19.
4. Townsley, M. & McNamara, S. (2020). School administrators’ experiences in a six-month health
and wellness community of practice. Presentation accepted for the SHAPE America National
Convention, Salt Lake City, UT. *Conference cancelled due to COVID-19.
5. Townsley, M., & Miller, S. (2019). Mastery-minded grading in secondary schools. Roundtable
presentation given at the AASA National Conference on Education, Los Angeles, CA.
6. Townsley, M., & Wear, N. (2015). Scaling standards-based grading at the high school.
Presentation given at Learning Forward Annual Conference, Washington, D.C.
 Townsley CV, Page 5

State & Regional Presentations [86 total; 15 while at UNI]

1. Lang, C., & Townsley, M. (2023). Getting parents on board with grading reform: Practical
communication tips. Iowa ASCD Curriculum Leadership Academy, Ankeny, IA.
2. Skaar, N., & Townsley, M. (2022). School mental health screening: A primer for school leaders.
Iowa BEST Summit, Des Moines, IA.
3. Townsley, M. (2022). Leadership for standards-based learning. Iowa ASCD Curriculum
Leadership Academy, Ankeny, IA.
4. Posekany, D., & Townsley, M. (2022). Standards-based grading in science: Taking your next
steps. UNI Science Education Update Conference, Cedar Falls, IA.
5. Snyder, R., & Townsley, M. (2021). Influences of data-driven decision making in the local
context: Insights for educational leaders of change. Paper accepted at the Annual Meeting of the
Mid-Western Educational Research Association, Cincinnati, OH.
6. Townsley, M., & Wear, N. (2021). Standards-based grading in a PLC. Keynote presentation and
workshops given at the Alabama Conference on Grading and Assessment for Learning,
Birmingham, AL.
7. Townsley, M. (2021). “Yeah, but..." Demystifying seven common standards-based grading
myths. Keynote presentation given at the Mastery Grading Conference for Grades 7-12 STEM
Focus, Virtual.
8. Townsley, M. (2021). Making grades matter 201: How do I get started? Workshop given at The
Summit for Transformative Learning, St. Louis, IA [Virtual due to COVID-19]
9. Townsley, M. (2021). “Yeah, but..." Demystifying seven common standards-based grading
myths. Featured presentation at The Summit for Transformative Learning, St. Louis, IA [Virtual
due to COVID-19]
10. Townsley, M. (2020). Standards-based grading. Presentation given at the Iowa Association of
Agricultural Educators Conference, Virtual.
11. Townsley, M. (2019). Equity in grading practices: A conversation for PK-16 educators.
Roundtable given at the 2019 Iowa Educational Research and Evaluation Association
Conference, Ankeny, IA.
12. Townsley, M. (2019). Equity in grading practices: A conversation for PK-16 educators.
Presentation given at the 2019 Center for Educational Transformation Summit, Cedar Falls, IA.
13. Townsley, M. (2019). Standards-based grading: Moving from “silos of some” to an “arsenal of
everybody." Invited presentation given at the PLC 2.0 Institute, Pewaukee, WI.
14. Townsley, M. (2019). Grading: Not the way your Aunt Edna experienced it. Invited presentation
given at the PLC 2.0 Institute, Pewaukee, WI.
15. Townsley, M. (2019). Standards-Based Grading 301: I am deep in the trenches of SBG. Help!
Invited presentation given at 5th Annual Grant Wood AEA Standards-Based Grading Conference,
Coralville, IA.
16. Townsley, M. (2019). Standards-Based Grading 201: How do I get started? Invited presentation
given at 5th Annual Grant Wood AEA Standards-Based Grading Conference, Coralville, IA.
17. Townsley, M. (2018). “Yeah, but…” Demystifying standards-based grading. Invited keynote
presentation given at the Drake University / Des Moines Public Schools Transforming Systems
through Standards-Based Learning Conference, Des Moines, IA.
18. Townsley, M. (2017). Effective grading practices: What does the research tell us (and not tell
us)? Invited presentation given at the Iowa Educational Research and Evaluation Association
Annual Conference, Iowa City, IA.
19. Wawro, T., Cobb, M. J., Townsley, M. & Hersom, R (2017). Building allies while educating allies.
Invited panelist at the Iowa Association of Colleges for Teacher Education Fall Conference,
Coralville, IA.
20. Townsley M. (2017). Successful implementation of standards-referenced grading in a small high
school. Invited presentation given at the Drake University / Des Moines Public Schools
Transforming Systems through Standards-Based Learning Conference, Des Moines, IA.
21. Townsley, M. (2017). Personalizing standards-based grading in a competency-based world.
Invited keynote presentation given at the Iowa ASCD Curriculum Leadership Academy,
Urbandale, IA.
 Townsley CV, Page 6
22. Wear, N., & Townsley, M. (2017). Taking the “next steps” with standards-based grading. Invited
presentation given at the Grant Wood AEA Standards-Based Grading Conference, Cedar Rapids,
IA.
23. Townsley, M. (2017). How do I convert SBG to a letter grade? Invited presentation given at the
Grant Wood AEA Standards-Based Grading Conference, Cedar Rapids, IA.
24. Townsley, M. (2017). Standards-Based Grading 101 & 201. Invited presentations given at the
Shared Professional Learning Day, Central City, IA.
25. Townsley, M. (2016). Impact of standards-based grading practices on post-secondary readiness
as measured by standardized college entrance exams. Poster presentation given at Iowa
Educational Research and Evaluation Association Annual Conference, Iowa City, IA.
26. Townsley, M. (2016). Grading: Not the way your Aunt Edna experienced it. Presentation given at
School Improvement Research Symposium, Carrollton, GA.
27. Townsley, M. (2016). What are the similarities and differences between SBG and CBE? Invited
presentation given at AEA 267 Standards-Based Grading Conference, Cedar Falls, IA.
28. Miller, S., Townsley, M., & Wear, N. (2016). How does a school take SBG district wide? Invited
presentation given at AEA 267 Standards-Based Grading Conference, Cedar Falls, IA.
29. Townsley, M. (2016). How do I convert SBG to a letter grade? Invited presentation given at AEA
267 Standards-Based Grading Conference, Cedar Falls, IA.
30. Gausman, P., Krysl, M., Eidahl, D., Haluska, A., & Townsley, M. (2016) TLC Successes &
Challenges. Invited presentation given at Iowa Association of School Boards Employee Relations
Conference, Altoona, IA.
31. Townsley, M. (2016) Standards-based grading snags and solutions. Invited keynote presentation
given at Drake University Educational Leadership Symposium, Des Moines, IA.
32. Townsley, M. (2016). Letter grades and GPA in secondary standards-based grading. Invited
presentation given at Grant Wood AEA Standards-Based Grading Conference, Coralville, IA.
33. Townsley, M., & Wear, N. (2016). Leading a system towards unified SBG practices. Invited
presentation given at Grant Wood AEA Standards-Based Grading Conference, Coralville, IA.
34. Townsley, M., & Wear, N. (2016). Standards-based grading at Solon. Invited presentation given
for Norwalk Schools Administrative Team, Norwalk, IA.
35. Townsley, M., & Sheeley, T. (2015). SBG: The why, the how and me? Presentation given at
ICTM - ISTS Math & Science Conference, West Des Moines, IA.
36. Townsley, M. (2015). Are grades a good indication of a child’s learning? Invited presentation
given at Prairie Lakes AEA Superintendent Network, Pocahontas, IA.
37. Townsley, M. (2015). Understanding personalized learning, competency-based education and
standards-based grading. Invited presentation given at Iowa Technology Education Connection
Conference, Des Moines, IA.
38. Townsley, M. (2015). Making grades matter in a digital world. Invited presentation given at Iowa
Technology Education Connection Conference, Des Moines, IA.
39. Townsley, M. (2015). Initiative fatigue: Moving forward in a manageable way. Invited
presentation given at Iowa Technology Education Connection Conference, Des Moines, IA.
40. Townsley, M., & Cunningham, R. (2015). Standards-based grading and reporting -- going
building-wide. Invited presentation given at School Administrators of Iowa Annual Conference,
Des Moines, IA.
41. Townsley, M. (2015). Secondary standards-based grading: Tipping the scale from some to all.
Invited presentation given at Iowa ASCD Summer Institute, Des Moines, IA.
42. Townsley, M. (2015). Hold on…standards-based grading and competency-based education are
not interchangeable? Invited presentation given at Iowa ASCD Summer Institute, Des Moines, IA.
43. Townsley, M. (2015). Creating rigorous, engaging classrooms with standards-based instruction.
Invited workshop given at the Mary Institute and St. Louis Country Day School’s Summit for
Transformative Learning, St. Louis, MO.
44. Townsley, M. (2015). Standards-based grading: Moving from “silos of some” to an “arsenal of
everybody.” Invited keynote presentation given at Iowa ASCD Curriculum Academy, Des Moines,
IA.
45. Kaldenberg, K., Townsley, M., Townsley, E., & Forcht, D. (2015). School librarians +
administrators = Epic partnership. Presentation given at the Iowa Association of School Librarians
Spring Conference, Des Moines, IA.
 Townsley CV, Page 7
46. Townsley, M. (2015). From Kleenexes to competencies: How might changing secondary grading
practices influence higher education in Iowa? Presentation given at the Statewide Teaching &
Learning Conference, Waterloo, IA.
47. Townsley, M. (2015). Standards-based grading: Converting to letter grades. Invited presentation
given at Grant Wood AEA Standards-Based Grading Conference, Cedar Rapids, IA.
48. Townsley, M., & Miller S. (2015). How does a school make the standards-based grading change
district wide? Invited presentation given at Grant Wood AEA Standards-Based Grading
Conference, Cedar Rapids, IA.
49. Wear, N., & Townsley, M. (2015). Standards-based grading: District-wide at Solon. Invited
presentation given for Cedar Falls Schools Administrative Council, Cedar Falls, IA.
50. Townsley, M. (2014). Standards-based grading: Why? What? How? Everybody? Invited
presentation given at Keystone AEA’s The Landscape of Grading Workshop, Elkader, IA.
51. Townsley, M. (2014). Grading: Not the way your Aunt Sally experienced it. Invited keynote given
at the Iowa Council of Teachers of Mathematics Pre-Conference, Ames, IA.
52. Townsley, M. (2014). Standards-based grading: One CBE entry point. Invited presentation given
at the Iowa ASCD Competency-Based Education Conference, Des Moines, IA.
53. Wilson, L., & Townsley M. (2014). Making sense of CBE, SBG and personalized learning. Invited
presentation given at the Iowa ASCD Competency-Based Education Conference, Des Moines,
IA.
54. Wear, N., & Townsley, M. (2014). Leading standards-based grading in secondary schools.
Invited presentation given for Des Moines Public Schools Secondary Administrative Team, Des
Moines, IA.
55. Townsley, M., & Wear, N. (2014). Grading practices that measure learning: One district’s
journey. Invited presentation given at the Iowa ACT State Organization Annual Conference,
Ames, IA.
56. Townsley, M. (2014). Elementary standards-based grading & reporting: Next steps! Invited
presentation given at Rock Island-Milan Schools Teaching & Learning Conference, Rock Island,
IL.
57. Townsley, M. (2014). Standards-based grading 101. Invited presentation given at Rock Island-
Milan Schools Teaching & Learning Conference, Rock Island, IL.
58. Townsley, M. (2013). Targeted 1:1 - When one $ize doesn't fit all. Presentation given at the Iowa
Technology Education Connection Conference, Des Moines, IA.
59. Buckmiller, T., Townsley, M., & Rabenberg, T. (2013). Standards based grading: Current
practices and the future. Invited keynote panel at Iowa Educational Research & Evaluation
Association Conference, Iowa City, IA.
60. Townsley, M. (2013). Standards-based grading: What is it and why are so many schools
interested in it?. Invited presentation given at Prairie Lakes AEA superintendent network, Storm
Lake, IA.
61. Townsley, M. (2013). Grading practices that support and measure learning. Invited presentation
at North Fayette Valley School District Professional Development Day, West Union, IA.
62. Townsley, M. (2013). Standards-based grading and competency-based education: What’s the
connection? Invited presentation given at the Iowa ASCD Competency-Based Education
Conference, Des Moines, IA.
63. Sigrist, J., Townsley, M., & Wagoner, B. (2013). How is standards-based grading a gateway to
competency-based education? Invited presentation given at the Standards-Based Grading
Conference, Cedar Rapids, IA.
64. Townsley, M., Miller, S., & Durflinger D. (2013). How does a school make the standards-based
grading change district wide? Invited presentation given at the Standards-Based Grading
Conference, Cedar Rapids, IA.
65. The Bacon-Wrapped Lessons Workshop (2013). Iowa City, IA. Served as a coach for science
and math teachers.
66. Wilkerson, D., Ripperger, J., McDonald, C., Lettington, M., Urich, J., Miller, S., & Townsley, M.
(2012). SBAR: Lessons learned from three districts across Iowa. Presentation given at Iowa
Association of School Boards Convention, Des Moines, IA.
67. Cornally, S., Townsley, M., & Wear, N. (2012). More than a computer: Feedback, assessment
and simulations. Invited presentation given at School Administrators of Iowa Annual Conference,
Des Moines, IA.
 Townsley CV, Page 8
68. Goerend, R., & Townsley, M. (2012). Rethink assessment: Revisited. Presentation given at Iowa
1:1 Institute, Des Moines, IA.
69. Kaldenberg, K., & Townsley, M. (2012). Lead or be left behind: The changing role of the teacher
librarian. Presentation given at Iowa 1:1 Institute, Des Moines, IA.
70. Townsley, M. (2012). Grading, homework and late work: Solutions to common barriers. Invited
presentation given at Prairie Point Middle School, Cedar Rapids, IA.
71. Townsley, M. (2012). Formative assessment. Invited presentation given at Anamosa High
School Professional Development Day, Anamosa, IA.
72. Townsley, M. & Goerend, R. (2011). Rethink assessment. Invited presentation given at Iowa 1:1
Institute, Des Moines, IA.
73. Townsley, M., & Goerend, R. (2010). Technology has been around forever: Is 1:1 enough?,
Presentation given at Iowa Technology Education Connection Conference, Iowa City, IA
74. Townsley, M., & Goerend, R. (2010). Technology has been around forever: Is 1:1 enough?,
Presentation given at ISTE Unplugged, Denver, CO.
75. McClintock Miller, S., Kaldenberg, K., Townsley, M., & Durflinger, D. (2010). PLN power!
Presentation given at the Iowa Association of School Librarians Spring Conference, Des Moines,
IA.
76. Townsley, M. (2010). How do you know if they know? Re-examining assessment through the
lens of learning. Presentation given at the Iowa Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference,
West Des Moines, IA
77. Townsley, M. (2010). Assessment for learning: Solutions to common barriers. Invited
presentation given at Clear Creek Amana Iowa Core Professional Development Day, Tiffin, IA.
78. Cornally, S. & Townsley, M. (2010). Teaching math in 1:1 environment: More than just
computers? Invited presentation given at the Sigourney Technology Infused Learning
Conference, Sigourney, IA.
79. Townsley, M. (2010). From points to learning: Making formative assessment meaningful. Invited
presentation given at the Cedar County Professional Development Day, Tipton, IA.
80. Townsley, M., & Townsley, E. (2010). From points to learning. Invited presentation given at the
Grant Wood AEA Iowa Core Leadership Series, Cedar Rapids, IA
81. Townsley, M. (2009). Technology vs. Pedagogy: Are they mutually exclusive? Presentation
given at the Iowa Technology Education Connection Conference, Iowa City, IA
82. Townsley, M. (2009). How do you know if they know? Re-examining assessment through the
lens of learning. Invited presentation given at the Cedar County Professional Development Day,
West Branch, IA
83. Townsley, M. (2009). Technology vs. Pedagogy: Are they mutually exclusive? Invited
presentation given at the Boone Community School District Technology Showcase, Boone, IA
84. Townsley, M. (2009) Technology vs. Pedagogy: Are they mutually exclusive? Invited
presentation given at the Solon Community School District Technology Showcase, Solon, IA
85. Townsley, M. (2008). Moodle: Going “virtual” with your classroom. Presentation given at the
Solon Community School District Showcase, Solon, IA.
86. Townsley, M., & Goerend B. (2008). How do you know if they know? Presentation given at the
Iowa Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference, West Des Moines, IA.

TEACHING & ADVISING

[11 unique UNI courses serving educational leadership, school psychology, and EdD students]

University of Northern Iowa (Graduate)

Fall 2018-23, Spring 2019-23 EDLEAD 6282 Leading School Growth & Improvement
Spring 2019-22 EDLEAD 7311 Ed. Leadership and Systems Change
Fall 2019, 2020, Spring 2020-23 EDLEAD 6249 Leading Learning, Teaching, & Curric.
Fall 2018, 2019, Spring 2019, 2023 EDLEAD 6291 Internship
Summer 2019-23 EDLEAD 6245 Leadership for Effective Schools
Summer 2019-23 EDLEAD 6289 Seminar in School Leadership
Summer 2019-23 EDLEAD 7315 Ldg. Teaching, Learning & Assessment
Spring 2019, Fall 2022 EDLEAD 6289 Seminar in Ed. Leadership: PK-12
Fall 2021-22, Spring 2022 MEASRES 6205 Educational Research
 Townsley CV, Page 9
Fall 2021, 2023 INTDEPED 7318 Evidence-Based Practices…
Spring 2023 EDLEAD 6235 Community Connections

Current EdD Dissertation Committees – 15 (11 chairing)

Completed EdD Dissertations (^chair or co-chair) – 8 (^ Jackie Moorman, Spring 2023; ^Sharon
Dentlinger, Spring 2023; Alaina Daters, Fall 2022; Jamie Zabel, Summer 2021; ^Rob Griffin, Summer
2020; Darcie Kress, Fall 2019; Jo Ellen Latham, Fall 2018; David Fox, Fall 2018)

University of West Georgia (Graduate)

Spring 2018 EDRES 6301 Research in Education

Drake University (Graduate)

Summer 2017 EDL 273 Instruction and Learning
Summer 2016 EDL 287 Curriculum and Evaluation

SERVICE & OUTREACH

University
Intercollegiate Academics Fund Committee, 2021-present
Committee on Academic Program Review, 2020-present

Graduate College
Faculty Judge for Annual Graduate Student Symposium, 2019

College of Education
Ed.D. Program Leadership Committee (Ed. Leadership Intensive Study Area Coordinator), 2020-present
Ed.D. Program Interim Director, Sept. 2022-July 2023
Ed.D. Program Student Outcomes Assessment Work Group, 2022-present
Education Summit Planning Committee, Center for Educational Transformation, 2019-2020
Search Committee for Academic Advisor (3 positions), 2018
Ed.D. Comprehensive Exams Alternatives Work Group, 2018

Educational Psychology, Foundations, and Leadership Studies Department

Faculty Vice Chair, Oct. 2023-present
Principalship MAE Student Outcomes Assessment Work Group, 2018-present
Standards and Criteria Committee, 2020
Search Committee for Instructor of Educational Leadership, 2018-2019
ELPE/EPF Department Website Merger Work Group, 2018

National
Assistant Editor, Journal of School Administration Research and Development, 2022-present
National Teacher Induction Network, New Teacher Center, 2013–2014

State
President-elect, Iowa EREA, 2023-present
Board of Directors, Iowa ASCD, 2022-present
Iowa Higher Education Mathematics Transition Advisory Council, 2021-2023.
Iowa eTranscript Gateway Standards-Based Grading working group, 2021-2022.
Council Member, Iowa Educational Research & Evaluation Association, 2019 – 2021,
Commission on Educator Leadership and Compensation, Iowa Department of Education, 2019 – 2022.
Central Office Administrator of the Year Selection Committee, School Administrators of Iowa, 2018
Competency-based Education Task Force, Iowa Department of Education, 2012 – 2013
Iowa Core Alignment Toolkit Cognitive Complexity Team, Iowa Department of Education, 2012
Iowa AEA PD Online Advisory Committee, Iowa AEAs, 2011 – 2015

Local
Wartburg College Education Department – Mock Interviews for student teachers, 2020
 Townsley CV, Page 10
Guest reader for kindergarten class, Highland Elementary, Waterloo Schools, 2019
6th grade exit interviewer, Hansen Elementary, Cedar Falls, 2019
Area 10 Regional Career & Technical Education Partnership, Grant Wood AEA, 2017–2018
Special Education Director Network Co-Facilitator, Grant Wood AEA, 2015–2018
Teacher Leadership Advisory Committee, Grant Wood AEA, 2015–2017
Induction Consortium Steering Committee, Grant Wood AEA, 2013–2014
Central Office Director Network Advisory Committee, Grant Wood AEA, 2011–2013
Education Department Advisory Committee, Cornell College, 2010–2018

Book, Journal and Conference Reviews

Book manuscript reviewer, Rowman & Littlefield, 2023
Reviewer, Journal of Biomechanical Engineering, 2023
Reviewer, Journal of School Administration Research and Development, 2018-2023
Reviewer, PRIMUS: Problems, Resources, and Issues in Mathematics Undergraduate Studies, 2018,
2023
Reviewer, NASSP Bulletin, 2021-2023
Reviewer, Journal of Research Initiatives, 2021-2023
Reviewer, Journal of Mathematics Education Leadership, 2020, 2022
Reviewer, Studies in Educational Evaluation, 2020-2022
Reviewer, Practical Assessment, Research, and Evaluation, 2021
Reviewer, Journal of School Leadership, 2020
Chapter manuscript reviewer, Education Around the Globe: Creating Opportunities and Transforming
Lives, 2019.
Conference proposal reviewer, ASCD Empower, 2018
Book manuscript reviewer, Corwin, 2018
Book manuscript reviewer, Solution Tree, 2015 & 2018
Reviewer, Journal of Research in Education, 2015-2017
Book manuscript reviewer, ASCD, 2015-2016
Textbook reviewer, Statistics through Applications (2nd Edition), 2011

Consultation [While at UNI, 68 schools/organizations within 15 states and 3 countries]

• Standards-Based Grading, Xavier Catholic Schools, Cedar Rapids, IA, 2023
• Standards-Referenced Grading, Wichita Public Schools, Wichita, KS, 2023
• Standards-Based Grading, North Scott CSD, Eldridge, IA, 2023
• Standards-Based Reporting, Ipswich Public Schools, Ipswich, MA, 2023
• Standards-Based Grading, Howard-Winneshiek CSD, Cresco, Iowa, 2023
• Standards-Referenced Grading, Urbandale Schools, Urbandale, Iowa, 2023
• Standards-Based Grading, West Bend-Mallard CSD, West Bend, Iowa, 2023
• Standards-Based Grading, Choice Charter School, Iowa, 2023
• Standards-Based Grading, Waterloo Community Schools, Waterloo, IA, 2022-2023
• Standards-Based Grading, Union Community School District, LaPorte City, IA, 2022-2023
• Standards-Based Grading, Santa Fe Public Schools, Santa Fe, NM, 2022, 2023
• Standards-Based Grading, Decorah Community School District, Decorah, IA, 2022
• Standards-Based Grading, St. Ansgar Community School District, St. Ansgar, IA, 2022
• Standards-Based Learning, North Polk CSD, Alleman, IA, 2022
• Standards-Based Grading, IKM-Manning & Exira-EHK, Manning, IA, 2022, 2023
• Standards-Based Learning, American School of Quito, Quito, Ecuador, 2022
• Elementary Standards-Based Reporting, Marblehead Public Schools, Marblehead, MA, 2022
• High School Standards-Based Grading, Maricopa Unified School District, Maricopa, AZ, 2022
• High School Standards-Based Grading, Geneseo CSD #228, Geneseo, IL, 2022
• Standards-Based Grading, Burlington Community School District, Burlington, IA, 2022
• Standards-Based Grading, Doniphan-Trumball Schools, Doniphan, NE, 2022-2023
• Making Grades Matter, Fayette County Public Schools, Lexington, KY, 2022
• Intermediate Standards-Based Grading, Garden City Public Schools, Garden City, KS, 2022,
2023
• Standards-Based Grading, Camanche Community Schools District, Camanche, IA, 2022
 Townsley CV, Page 11
• Assessment for Secondary Educators, East Aurora School District 131, Aurora, Illinois, 2022
• Standards-Based Grading, Mediapolis Schools, Mediapolis, IA, 2021-2022
• Standards-Based Grading, AC/GC Schools, Guthrie Center, IA, November 2021
• Standards-Based Grading, Missoula County Public Schools, Missoula, MT, Fall 2021
• Standards Based Assessment, Grading and Reporting, Nansha College Preparatory Academy,
Nansha, Guangzhou, China, 2021, 2022, 2023
• PLCs, Assessment and Grading, Buchanan Community Schools, Buchanan, MI, 2021-2022
• Standards-Based Grading, Iowa City Community School District, Iowa City, IA, Fall 2021
• Standards-Based Grading, Gilbert Community School District, Gilbert, IA, Sept. 2021& Feb. 2022
• Standards-Based Grading, Wautoma Area School District, Wautoma, WI, 2021, 2022
• Standards-Based Grading, Northeast Community Schools, Goose Lake, IA, Aug. 2021 & June
2022
• Standards-Based Grading, Owego Apalachin CSD Owego, NY, Summer 2021
• Project-Based Learning, Cedar Valley Catholic Schools, Waterloo, IA, June 2021
• Standards-Based Grading, Glenwood Community School District, IA, 2013, June 2021
• Standards-Based Grading, Centerville Community School District, IA, 2021-2022
• Standards-Based Grading, Gliddon-Ralston Schools, IA, February 2021 & October 2021
• Secondary Standards-Based/Referenced Grading, Heartland AEA, Johnston, IA, February 2021
• Standards-Based Grading, Educational Service Unit #13, NE, February 2021
• Standards-Based Grading, USD 363 Holcomb School District, KS, 2020, 2021, 2022
• Standards-Referenced Grading, West Marshall Schools, IA, 2020, 2021
• Secondary Standards-Based Grading, Iowa Falls-Alden Schools, Iowa Falls, IA, 2020.
• Standards-Based Assessment and Reporting, Davenport Schools, Davenport, IA, August 2020
• Standards-Based Grading, Interstate 35 Community Schools, Truro, IA, August 2020
• Standards-Based Grading, East Union Community Schools, IA, December 2019 & August 2020
• Standards-Based Grading, Educational Service Unit #7, NE, June 2020 & October 2020
• Standards-Based Grading in PE, Jesup Schools, Jesup, IA, March 2020
• Standards-Referenced Grading, BCLUW High School, IA, February 2020
• Standards-Based Grading, Westside Union School District, CA, January & March 2020
• Standards-Based Grading for Administrators, Bettendorf Community Schools, IA, November 2019
• Standards-Based Learning Framework Friday, Heartland AEA, IA, November 2019
• Standards-Based Reporting, Cedar Valley Catholic Schools, Waterloo, IA, 2019 & 2020
• Standards-Based Grading, Park City Schools, Park City, UT, August 2019
• Standards-Based Grading, Osage Community Schools, IA, June 2019
• Standards-Referenced Grading, Chariton Community Schools, IA, June 2019
• High School Standards-Based Grading, Baxter Schools, Baxter, IA, May 2019
• Curriculum and Assessment Alignment, Newell-Fonda Schools, Fonda, IA, April 2019
• Standards-Based Grading, Crooked-Billet – Hallowell Learning Community, PA, April 2019
• High School Standards-Based Grading, Southwest Valley Schools, IA, March 2019
• Standards-Based Grading, Paton-Churdan, IA, March 2019
• Elementary Standards-Based Reporting, Storm Lake Schools, IA, February 2019
• Standards-Based Reporting, Hammondsport Central School District, NY, November 2018
• Next Steps with Standards-Based Grading, Washington Community Schools, IA, October 2018
• Assessment FOR Learning, Regional School District No. 1, CT, October 2018
• Standards-Based Reporting, Holy Family School System, IA, Oct. 2018 & April 2019
• Standards-Based Reporting, St. Pius X School, IA, September 2018 – December 2018
• Middle School Standards-Based Grading, Nevada Schools, IA, August 2018 & February 2019
• Standards-Based Grading, St. Matthew Elementary, Iowa, 2018
• Standards-Based Grading: Train-the-trainer, Central Rivers AEA, Iowa, 2018
• Middle School Standards-Referenced Grading, Storm Lake Schools, Iowa, 2018
• Next Steps with Standards-Based Grading, Prairie Lakes AEA, Iowa, 2017-2018
• High School Standards-Based Grading, Topeka High School, Kansas, 2017
• Standards-Based Grading, Renville County West Public Schools, Minnesota, 2017
• High School Standards-Based Grading, Sigourney Community School District, Iowa, 2016
• Standards-Based Grading, Collins-Maxwell Schools, Iowa, 2016
• Grading for Learning in CTE: Standards-Based Grading 101, Iowa ACTE, Iowa, 2016
 Townsley CV, Page 12
• High School Standards-Based Grading, Forest City Schools, Iowa, 2016
• Standards-Based Grading, SWWC Service Cooperative, Minnesota, 2015-2017
• Secondary Standards-Based Grading, Garner-Hayfield-Ventura, Iowa, 2015
• Secondary Standards-Based Grading, Prairie Lakes AEA, Iowa, 2015
• Secondary Standards-Based Grading, Center Point-Urbana Schools, Iowa, 2015
• Elementary Standards-Based Report Cards, St. Edmond Catholic Schools, Iowa, 2014-2015
• Standards-Based Grading, Manson-Northwest Webster Schools, Iowa, 2014
• Secondary Standards-Based Grading Workshop, Grant Wood AEA, Iowa, 2010 & 2014
• Standards-Based Grading, Highland Community School District, Iowa, 2014
• Standards-Based Grading, Prairie Lakes AEA Principal Network, Iowa, 2014 & 2015
• Standards-Based Grading, AEA 267, Iowa, 2013
• Grading and Assessment Shifts, Manson-Northwest Webster Schools, Iowa, 2012
• Formative Assessment: Thinking Outside the Grade Book, North Cedar Schools, Iowa, 2012
• Formative Assessment, South Tama County Schools, Iowa, 2011
• Formative Assessment: Thinking Outside the Grade Book, Newell-Fonda Schools, Iowa, 2011
• Competency-Based Grading, Van Meter Community Schools, Iowa, 2011
• Algebra 1: An Open Course, Monterrey Institute for Technology & Education, California, 2009

Other Service
• Invited speaker in Jennifer Anderson’s pre-service business teacher course on the topic of
standards-based grading (2/21/23)
• Invited speaker in Debbie Lee and Kara Hageman’s RAPIL course on the topic of standards-
based grading (2/18/23)
• Invited speaker in Ann Browning’s RAPIL course on the topic of designing classroom
assessments (10/29/22).
• Invited speaker in Cindy Cone’s Council Bluffs / Omaha area UNI student teacher seminar class
on the topic of standards-based grading (1/28/2020, 9/30/2020, 3/24/2021, 10/27/2021)
• Invited speaker in Gail Wortmann’s RAPIL course on the topic of standards-based grading
(3/28/2020, 1/9/2021, 1/21/2022).
• Invited reserve “thought leader” at School Administrators of Iowa Annual Conference (2018,
2019, 2020)
• Invited speaker in Dr. Scott McLeod’s EDUC 5753 Principal Licensure III Northern Metro 3 cohort
course at the University of Colorado Denver on the topic of leading standards-based grading
change (10/15/19)
• Invited speaker at Waverly, IA Exchange Club meeting on the topic of education trends in Iowa
(11/29/18)
• Invited speaker at Union Community Schools (LaPorte City, IA) board of education on the topic of
standards-based grading (11/19/18)
• Invited speaker at Clay Central Everly school district leadership team meeting on the next steps
with standards-based grading implementation (11/14/18)
• Invited speaker in Dr. Denise Schares RAPIL course on the topic of standards-based grading
(11/13/18 & 11/12/19)
• Invited ethical scenario panelist for Mr. Brian Downing’s Iowa Principal Leadership Academy
course (10/19/18)

MEMBERSHIPS IN PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND SOCIETIES

Iowa EREA Iowa ASCD School Administrators of Iowa

MEDIA CONTRIBUTIONS [40 total; 9 while at UNI]

1. Quoted in Specht, D. (2023, February). Three common myths about standards-based grading –
debunked. NCEA Talk. https://nceatalk.org/2023/02/three-common-myths-about-standards-based-
grading-debunked/
 Townsley CV, Page 13
2. Quoted in Jacobson, L. (2022, March). Academic mismatch: Students earned record-high GPAs as
scores lagged on achievement tests. Here’s what the new federal data could mean. The 74.
https://www.the74million.org/academic-mismatch-students-earned-record-high-gpas-as-scores-
lagged-on-achievement-tests-heres-what-the-new-federal-data-could-mean/
3. Quoted in Zalaznick, M. (2021, November). Initiative fatigue: How to keep your educators energized
as COVID drags on. District Administration. Available at https://districtadministration.com/initiative-
fatigue-energize-educators-covid-drags-on/
4. Quoted in Hernandez, S. (2021, March). No F grades in Des Moines middle, high schools. The Des
Moines Register. Available at
https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/education/2021/03/09/des-moines-student-grades-
covid-iowa-incomplete-not-fail/4593194001/
5. Featured in Prideaux, L. (2020, September). Tuesday Talk. University of Iowa Alumni Association.
Available at https://www.facebook.com/unialum/posts/3154752167913313
6. Quoted in Lenz, L. (2020, June). My third grader was remote learning in a pandemic. I wasn’t going to
worry about a C- in PE. The Washington Post. Available at
https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2020/06/01/my-third-grader-was-remote-learning-
pandemic-im-wasnt-going-worry-about-c-pe/
7. Featured (2020, February). 5 questions with UNI professor Matt Townsley. Inside UNI. Available at
https://insideuni.uni.edu/5-questions-uni-professor-matt-townsley
8. Quoted in Bisaha, S. (2019, March). Kansas high schools reluctant to lose A’s and F’s in favor of
standards-based grading. Kansas News Service / KCUR. Available at
https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-high-schools-reluctant-lose-and-fs-favor-standards-based-grading
9. Quoted in Masudi, F. (2018, November). Out with homework! It’s home learning now in UAE. [article].
Gulf News Society. Available at https://gulfnews.com/news/uae/society/out-with-homework-it-s-home-
learning-now-in-uae-1.2290963
10. Quoted in Paterson, J. (2018, April). ‘Starbucks classrooms’ plus six other new approaches in
education. [article]. The Washington Post. Available at
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/parenting/wp/2018/04/03/starbuck-classrooms-plus-six-other-
new-approaches-in-education/
11. Quoted in Matthews, J. (2018, March). Can grade grubbers handle the rise of mastery education?
[column]. The Washington Post. Available at https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/education/can-
grade-grubbers-handle-the-rise-of-mastery-education/2018/03/17/ba196a26-26db-11e8-b79d-
f3d931db7f68_story.html
12. Quoted in Zalaznick, M. (2018, March). Homework overhaul in schools. [news story]. District
Administration. Available at https://www.districtadministration.com/article/homework-overhaul-schools
13. Quoted in Johnson, S. (2017, November). Corridor parent speaks out about seclusion rooms. [news
story]. Cedar Rapids, IA: KGAN. Available at http://cbs2iowa.com/news/local/corridor-parent-speaks-
out-about-seclusion-rooms
14. Quoted in Diallo, A. (2017, November). How one school is rising above gang activity to find college
success. [article]. Christian Science Monitor. Available at
https://www.csmonitor.com/EqualEd/2017/1121/How-one-school-is-rising-above-gang-activity-to-find-
college-success
15. Quoted in Scheinblum, J. (2017, November). I9: Seclusion rooms: No set standards in Iowa. [news
story]. Cedar Rapids, IA: KCRG. Available at http://www.kcrg.com/content/news/I9-Seclusion-rooms-
no-set-standards-in-Iowa-Part-1--457811943.html
16. Quoted in Hines, H. (2017, July). To boost computer science instruction, teachers say training is key.
[newspaper article]. Iowa City, IA: Iowa City Press-Citizen. Available at http://www.press-
citizen.com/story/news/2017/07/30/boost-computer-science-instruction-teachers-say-training-
key/442762001/
17. Featured in Zubrzycki, J. (2016, March). Iowa academic chief plays dual role. [news story]. Education
Week. Available at http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2016/03/28/iowa-academic-chief-plays-dual-
role.html
18. Featured in Center for Digital Education (2015, December). Personalized Learning [special research
report]. Available at http://www.centerdigitaled.com/paper/Personalized-Learning-Creating-a-
Relevant-Learning-Culture-for-the-Next-Generation-8132.html
19. Quoted in Heaton, N. (2015, December). Schools for a modern world [newspaper article]. Solon, IA:
Solon Economist. Available at http://www.soloneconomist.com/content/schools-modern-world
 Townsley CV, Page 14
20. Quoted in Yost, R. (2015, November). School official cite advantages of change in grades [news
story]. Forest City, IA: Forest City Summit. Available at
http://globegazette.com/forestcitysummit/news/local/school-officials-cite-advantages-of-change-in-
grades/article_5ef1210d-8f31-5d0a-8bd7-54cfa4951195.html
21. Quoted in Hines, H. (2015, September). Solon schools have new snack, treat policy [news story].
Iowa City, IA: Iowa City Press-Citizen. Available at http://www.press-
citizen.com/story/news/education/k-12/2015/09/27/solon-schools-have-new-snack-treat-
policy/72807490/
22. Quoted in Phillips, A. (2015, September). Iowa City-based Pear Deck creates interactive tools for
teachers [news story]. Cedar Rapids, IA: The Gazette. Available at
http://www.thegazette.com/subject/news/iowa-city-based-pear-deck-creates-interactive-tools-for-
teachers-20150926
23. Quoted in Hess, J. (2015, August). One valley school district's unorthodox educational approach: No
more grades [news story]. Fresno, CA: Valley Public Radio. Available at http://kvpr.org/post/one-
valley-school-districts-unorthodox-educational-approach-no-more-grades
24. Quoted in Smith, B. (2015, June). Make computer science a requirement to graduate, says state
committee [news story]. Cedar Rapids, IA: KCRG. Available at
http://www.kcrg.com/subject/news/make-computer-science-a-requirement-to-graduate-says-state-
committee-20150624
25. Featured in Phillips, A. (2015, June). Profile: Matt Townsley leads innovation in Solon schools
[newspaper article]. Cedar Rapids, IA: The Gazette. Available at
http://thegazette.com/subject/news/education/k-12-education/profile-matt-townsley-leads-innovation-
in-solon-schools-20150607
26. Quoted in Lindner, L. & Umscheid, C. (2015, May). Teaching leaders, leading teachers [newspaper
article]. Solon, IA: Solon Economist. Available at http://www.soloneconomist.com/content/teaching-
leaders-leading-teachers
27. Quoted in Phillips, A. (2015, March). Educators tout move away from letter grades [newspaper
article]. Cedar Rapids, IA: The Gazette. Available at
http://thegazette.com/subject/news/education/educators-push-move-away-from-letter-grades-
20150330
28. Quoted in Phillips, A. (2015, February). State Board of Education hopes for legislative action on new
test [newspaper article]. Cedar Rapids, IA: The Gazette. Available at
http://thegazette.com/subject/news/government/iowa/state-house/state-board-of-education-hopes-for-
legislative-action-on-new-test-20150215
29. Quoted in Hines, H. (2015, February). New online assessments for Iowa? [newspaper article]. Iowa
City, IA: Press-Citizen. Available at http://www.press-
citizen.com/story/news/education/2015/02/07/digital-statewide-assessments/23062741/
30. Quoted in Phillips, A. (2015, February). Iowa schools could see health services boost due to federal
policy change [newspaper article]. Cedar Rapids, IA: The Gazette. Available at
http://thegazette.com/subject/news/iowa-schools-could-see-health-services-boost-due-to-federal-
policy-change-20150204
31. Resource featured (2014, December). Explaining Standards-Based Grading to Parents [newsletter
article] ASCD Express: ASCD. Available at http://www.ascd.org/ascd-express/vol10/1007-video.aspx
32. Quoted in Fluker, M. (2014, June). Corridor school districts shift to standards-based grading
[newspaper article]. Cedar Rapids, IA: The Gazette. Available at
http://www.thegazette.com/subject/news/corridor-school-districts-shift-to-standards-based-grading-
20140621
33. Quoted in Grinberg, E. (2014, April). Ditching letter grades for a ‘window’ into the classroom [article].
CNN Living. Available at http://www.cnn.com/2014/04/07/living/report-card-changes-standards-
based-grading-schools/index.html
34. Featured in Umscheid, C. (2014, March). Solon school district studies the use of technology
[newspaper article] Solon, IA: Solon Economist. Available at
http://www.northlibertyleader.com/content/solon-school-district-studies-use-technology
35. Featured in Marshall, K. (2013, December). Standards-based grading takes hold in an Iowa district
[newsletter] Marshall Memo: National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics.
36. Featured in Varlas, L. (2013, October). How we got grading wrong and what to do about it [newsletter
article] Education Update: ASCD. Available at
 Townsley CV, Page 15
http://www.ascd.org/publications/newsletters/education-update/oct13/vol55/num10/How-We-Got-
Grading-Wrong,-and-What-to-Do-About-It.aspx
37. Quoted in Roscorla, T. (2012, January). 3 reasons why school districts change grading practices
[article] Center for Digital Education. Available at http://www.centerdigitaled.com/curriculum/Grading-
Practices.html
38. Quoted in Fingal, D. (2011, May). To be or not to be radical about education reform [article] Learning
and Leading with Technology. Available at http://www.learningandleading-
digital.com/learning_leading/201105?pg=48#pg48
39. Featured in Hines-Dochterman, M. (2010, October 7). D’s disappear from some area report cards
[newspaper article]. Cedar Rapids, IA: The Gazette. Available at http://thegazette.com/2010/10/07/ds-
disappear-from-some-area-report-cards/
40. Quoted in Kasparie, J. (2010, February). New grading system catches lawmakers' attention [news
story]. Cedar Rapids, IA: KCRG. Available at http://www.kcrg.com/news/local/New-Grading-System-
at-Solon-Schools-Catches-Lawmakers-Attention-139083719.html

OTHER ONLINE RESOURCES

1. Peppler, B., & Townsley, M. (2023). The 3 grading reform challenges every school leader must
overcome. District Administration [webinar]. https://otus.com/webinars/the-3-grading-reform-
challenges-every-school-leader-must-overcome/
2. Dicerbo, K., & Townsley, M. (2022). Ed Talks with Matt Townsley. Khan Academy Ed Talks.
Available at https://blog.khanacademy.org/ed-talks-with-matt-townsley-edd/
3. Wagner, S., Hendrickson, K., & Townsley, M. (2021). But they won’t get into college: Standards-
based grading from high school to college. (Ep. 14). Chalk Talk podcast. Available at
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/e14-but-they-wont-get-into-college-standards-
based/id1549519031?i=1000529508491
4. Prendergast, L., Rhodes, J., Townsley, M., & Sackstein, S. (2021). Assessment reimagined:
What have we learned? What’s next? [podcast] Educators Without Borders. Available at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8osu5o1AZQ
5. Richardson, G., & Townsley, M. (2021). Making grades matter (Ep. 37). Transforming Education
podcast. Available at https://www.nwciowa.edu/podcasts/transforming-education/98/making-
grades-matter-with-dr-matt-townsley
6. Beard, E., Townsley, M., & Thoms, C. (2021). The problem with grading behavior, with Matt
Townsley & Chris Thoms (Ep. 3). The Connected Educator Podcast. Available at
https://www.nwea.org/resource-center/resource/the-problem-with-grading-behavior-with-matt-
townsley-and-chris-thoms/
7. Schimmer, T., & Townsley, M. (2021). Relentless Outrage | Matt Townsley | Leading Change in
Assessment (2) [podcast]. Available at https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-2ynda-fe6da8
8. Smith J. & Townsley, M. (2020). Episode #37. The Group Project Podcast. Available at
https://www.drjaredsmith.com/podcast/episode/496945c2/37-matt-townsley-on-standards-based-
grading-moving-from-k-12-to-post-secondary-leadership-advice-for-new-administrators-and-
using-voxer-to-build-relationships
9. Hicks, S., & Townsley, M. (2020). Matt Townsley and Standards Based Grading. EdMoves
podcast. Available at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/matt-townsley-and-standards-based-
grading/id1516514398?i=1000492119506
10. McNamara, S., Roth, K., Wiener, B., & Townsley, M. (2020). Grading in adapted physical
education. What’s New in Adapted Physical Education podcast. Available at
https://mrmcnamaras.blogspot.com/2020/06/grading-in-ape.html
11. Townsley, M. (2020). Standards, assessment and grading in a post COVID-19 educational
environment. Available at https://youtu.be/4_NHh_xVoaA
12. Townsley, M., & Wear, N. (2020). Standards-based grading 201: Overcoming common
implementation pitfalls. Available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naTWiK6zbFc
13. Patnoudes, E., Townsley, M., & Wear, N. (2020). A conversation on modern measures: Episode
9 [podcast]. Available at https://anchor.fm/modernmeasures/episodes/Episode-9-Matt-Townsley-
and-Nathan-L--Wear-eaqm5k/a-a1felq2
14. Mullen, G., & Townsley, M. (2020). Gaming the system [podcast]. The Exploring the Core
Podcast. Available at https://exploring-the-core-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/gaming-the-
system-30xcwFTt
 Townsley CV, Page 16
15. Townsley, E., & Townsley, M. (2015). Standards-Based Grading Podcast [video series]. Iowa
ASCD. Available at http://sbgpodcast.blogspot.com
16. Townsley, M. (2013, November). Effective Grading Practices: Retakes and Revisions [webinar].
Flint, MI: Genesee Intermediate School District Office of Education and Learning. Available at
https://www.smore.com/cfw0
17. Dahlby, G., McLeod, S., Casas, J., Dicks, J., Durflinger, D., Movall, N., & Townsley, M. (2013,
October). Connected leaders are transforming Iowa! [webinar]. Washington, DC: Consortium for
School Networking. Available at http://connectededucators.org/cem2013/connected-leaders-are-
transforming-iowa

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE)

• Reach Everyone and Teach Everyone with Universal Design for Learning, UNI Fall Faculty
Workshop, August 2023
• Burnout Culture in Academia: Where is Comes from and How We’ll Get Beyond It, UNI Fall
Faculty Workshop, August 2022.
• Pain. Power. Honor: Transformative Actions that Lead to Learning, UNI Fall Faculty Workshop,
August 2021
• 7th Annual Distance Education Conference, UNI Continuing Education & Special Programs,
November 2019
• Engaged Faculty Scholarship: Tips & Strategies for Successful Publishing, College of Education
panel discussion, April 2019
• Establishing and Maintaining a Successful and Productive Career, UNI Fall Faculty Workshop,
August 2018
• Applying the Quality Matters Rubric, August 2018
• Designing your own Course (Quality Matters), August 2018

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (NATIONAL)

• CPED Convening: Interaction & Activism in the Education Doctorate: Creating Lasting Impact,
October 2019, Columbia, SC.