Dr. Felder’s leadership and compassion have shaped educational landscapes across Washington State for over fifty years. His career began as an elementary school teacher with Seattle Public Schools before advancing, as a teacher, to middle and high schools, then eventually becoming a principal. He culminated his dedication to the community by serving foster care youth within Casey Family Programs.

A passionate advocate for students facing systemic inequities, life hardship, and academic struggle, Dr. Felder developed innovative programs in response to the needs of vulnerable youth. He pioneered one of the first Structured Literacy programs within the King County Detention Center, producing grand literacy and academic outcomes for incarcerated youth. Recognizing the needs of these students, he created small learning centers throughout King County to maintain a continuity of literacy services.

Dr. Felder continues his commitment by serving on boards that impact young people’s educational lives: the City of Seattle’s Department of Education and Early Learning Oversight Committee, King County Youth and Children Advisory Commission, and Washington State Charter School Commission. Recognizing that real improvement occurs among caregivers, teachers, and advocates, he loves sharing wisdom and doing projects like “artifact day,” where the school’s community listens to children present their ancestral lineage. Furthermore, his source of knowledge regarding youth achievement is tied to community organizers, particularly the leaders of the Reading Equity Project and The Unspoken Truth. Dr. Felder’s foundation of wisdom is riveted in his study at the University of Washington and Union University. Proudly, he still shines as a teacher and researcher as a result.