Sallie F. Dunning, Ed.M.

Coaching Director 
Open Circle Program

Sallie joined the Open Circle program in 1997 as a trainer and consultant. Since then, Sallie has developed a particular interest and expertise in the role that special area teachers play in the lives of schools and children. Whereas Open Circle's focus used to be primarily on grade-level teachers who teach the curriculum, they now involve specialists in almost all areas of the program. Sallie has also spent considerable time studying the dynamics of elementary school cafeterias - often the most challenging part of day for students and adults. An adjunct faculty member of Framingham State University, she oversees the two graduate courses offered by Open Circle.

Prior to joining the staff of Open Circle, Sallie had been the Director of Training and Associate Director of the Greater Boston Legal Services. Other endeavors include using outdoor challenges as part of the treatment for drug-involved adolescents; being a middle school counselor; and training middle school teachers. Sallie received her B.A. from Wellesley College and M.Ed. in Counseling from the School of Education at UMass-Amherst.

When not working with Open Circle, Sallie volunteers at her church, and several community social action groups. She and the rest of her family enjoy skiing and sailing in Maine whenever possible.