Dr. Paula Marie Starnes’ interests and work are directed towards helping people. As a Springfield native, she has a vested interest in this area and has been blessed to launch and maintain her career here as an educator.
Through the Department of Education for the state of Massachusetts, Dr. Paula holds administrative licenses to include superintendent, principal, special education director, multilingual administrator, and Director I and Director II administrator for preschool education and extended day learning. Moreover, Dr. Paula is certified to teach middle school English, high school English, and special education (all subjects) from elementary to high school. She is also licensed in special education in all subjects and all levels for the state of Connecticut.
To prepare for her career, Dr. Paula earned a double major bachelor’s degree in political science and communications from Western New England University and then received a master’s degree in education from Saint Catherine’s University. While in school, she was inducted into the international honor society, Pi Lambda Theta-Gamma Xi. She then went on to earn herdoctorate degree from American International College (AIC). Before receiving her doctorate degree, AIC asked her to join the staff and became a Senior Instructor Program Supervisor.
Dr. Paula loves people. She works diligently to help, motivate and inspire through her work and has been recognized for launching YSET Academy the awards include formal commendations from the mayor, city council, state representatives, senators, and governor’s office. Dr. Paula is also the thankful recipient of the Bishop Elizabeth Williams’ Achievement Award of Freedom House Church of God, the recipient of Business West Magazine’s Difference Makers Award, Mount Calvary Baptist Church’s Miriam Award, The Champion of Character Award from Power Gospel Church, The Community Excellence Award from The Springfield Black Music Month Committee, and the MICAH award from Pioneer Valley Project.
Through all of Dr. Paula’s milestones, her greatest accomplishment is being a mother. So, she wants to encourage all mothers to believe in one’s self-worth, and to hold on to faith.