Dolores Garcia-Blocker, Ed.D. is an accomplished educator with more than 30 years of experience working in public school systems.  She started her career as a teacher in Washington, D.C., led schools in New York and Connecticut, and has held district leadership roles for the past 10 years in Connecticut.  

As a student who matriculated through public school and then a private boarding school for high school, Dr. Garcia-Blocker recognized how her private educational experience prepared her to excel academically and socially in college.  As a new teacher, she saw the stark inequities between her educational experience and the students she taught.  As a result, she has focused her career on providing equitable opportunities for all  students, regardless of background.   She did this through rigorous instruction in the classroom, leading excellent schools, and developing innovative programs and initiatives focused on college and career readiness.  

Dr. Garcia-Blocker received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Spelman College, Master of Science degree from American University, and Doctor of Education degree from Teachers College, Columbia University.  She holds numerous professional certifications, including a superintendent certification from the University of Connecticut.  She was recognized by The College Board for closing the achievement gap, earned U.S. News & World Report’s bronze and silver medals for Outstanding High Schools, and was awarded as an outstanding educator by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc.  

Dr. Garcia-Blocker is a proud mother of a son who attends Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut as a Division I track and field athlete.