LAUSD Principals' Leadership Institute 2025

Dr. Gholnecsar (Gholdy) Muhammad is an Associate Professor of Literacy, Language, and Culture. With a rich background as a classroom teacher, literacy specialist, school district administrator, curriculum director, and school board president, she is a leading voice in education. Dr. Muhammad’s work focuses on Black historical excellence to reshape modern curriculum and instruction.

Her research, featured in top academic journals and books, has earned her numerous national awards. She is the author of the best-selling book “Cultivating Genius: An Equity Model for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy” and co-authored “Black Girls’ Literacies: An Edited Volume.” Her educational model has been widely adopted across the U.S. and Canada.

In 2022, she was recognized among the top 1% Edu-Scholar Public Influencers for her impact on policy and practice. She has received prestigious awards, including the American Educational Research Association Division K Early Career Award and the 2021 NCTE Outstanding Elementary Educator in the English Language Arts. Dr. Muhammad has also led a federal grant to explore culturally and historically responsive literacy in STEM classrooms. Her book, “Unearthing Joy,” continues her mission to integrate culturally responsive education into curriculum practice.