The Hockaday Experience
Innovation and Collaboration
2026 SMU Research Fellows
As part of Hockaday’s ongoing focus on Innovation and Collaboration, the School has announced the 2026 cohort of Hockaday Research Fellows.
Now in its second year, the fellowship represents a continuing partnership with Dr. Jeanna Wieselmann and the Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development at Southern Methodist University (SMU).
Throughout the spring semester, the Research Fellows will engage in action research—a process through which educators systematically study their own classrooms to enhance teaching and learning. By examining the impact and effectiveness of their instructional methods, techniques, and assessments, the Fellows will contribute to the School’s collective understanding of effective pedagogy.
As the projects progress, the Hockaday community will have opportunities to learn from the Fellows’ findings and outcomes.
The 2026 Hockaday Research Fellows are:
Melanie Jenkins, Upper School Health Teacher
Does the use of a new online instructional tool in 12th grade health class change student's knowledge, attitudes, and skills as it relates to substance use risk reduction?
Kristen Blevins, Upper School History Teacher
How does utilizing generative AI influence financial self-efficacy and investment decision-making for girls?
Amanda Richards, Upper School Latin Teacher
How can metacognitive techniques impact student engagement and confidence in Latin texts written by ancient Roman authors?
Dr. Emily Bemenderfer, Upper School Dean
How effective is the revised freshman transition program in improving ninth-grade transition in self advoacy, time management and sense of belonging?
Yung-Fang Ludford, Middle School Fine Arts Teacher
How does intentionally implementing fine-motor skill warm-up exercises affect beginning stringed-instrument learning in a fifth-grade instrumental general music class at an all-girls college-preparatory private school?
These educators exemplify Hockaday’s mission and values, modeling both a growth mindset and a commitment to lifelong learning. Their work not only enriches their own practice but also strengthens the academic experience for all Hockaday students.
The Hockaday School
Within the private school community, The Hockaday School is an independent college-preparatory day school for girls from grades PK–12 located in Dallas, Texas. Students realize their limitless potential through challenging academic curricula, arts, athletics, and extracurricular programs so that they are inspired to lead lives of purpose and impact.
The Hockaday School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law in the administration of its educational, admissions, financial aid, athletic, and other policies and programs.
The Hockaday School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law in the administration of its educational, admissions, financial aid, athletic, and other policies and programs.