College of Education & Human Services

Carol Kilver

Carol Kilver, Ed.D.

Program Coordinator, Visiting Professor

Department: School of Education
Room: 115 Horrabin Hall
Recognition: IASA Superintendent of Distinction, 2023; Thinking Collaborative, Outstanding Independent Research Award, January 2017; Bill Russell Excellence in Teaching Award, Jacksonville School District 117, August 1995. Peer nominated and selected award focusing on teaching excellence.
Phone: (309) 298-1183
Email: CL-Kilver@wiu.edu

About Me

Dr. Carol Kilver, Ed.D., is a Visiting Professor of Education at Western Illinois University, bringing more than three decades of public school service and extensive experience in leadership, coaching, and systems improvement. Prior to joining WIU, she served as a superintendent, district administrator, classroom teacher, executive coach, and consultant supporting organizational transformation across Illinois. Her work extends beyond the state, encompassing both rural and urban school systems and providing her with a broad understanding of the diverse contexts in which educators and leaders operate.

Her executive coaching work with students and adults is grounded in the belief that growth emerges from clarity, reflection, and purposeful action. She supports learners, educators, and leaders in strengthening communication, problem-solving, conflict navigation, and adaptive thinking. Her coaching approach reflects a foundational belief that individuals are capable, resourceful, and self-directed when provided structures that enhance executive function and reflective practice. This work is deeply informed by her training in Applied Educational Neuroscience at Butler University, completed in Spring 2025.

Kilver’s scholarly interests include curriculum development, adult learning, neuroscience-informed programming, restorative practices, quality assurance systems, and Adaptive Schools methodologies. She is particularly focused on how leaders create conditions that support executive function, psychological safety, and continuous improvement.

In her role at WIU, Kilver aims to strengthen leadership preparation through research-based, practice-centered instruction equipping future teachers and leaders to navigate complex school environments with clarity, compassion, and adaptive expertise.

Outside of her academic work, she enjoys time with family, gardening, riding motorcycles, traveling and exploring interests that keep her connected to the field of education.

Education:
Certificate in Applied Educational Neuroscience
Butler University		 Spring 2025
Doctorate in Educational Leadership
Western Illinois University		 December 2016
Alternative Certification Initiative-Superintendent Endorsement
Western Illinois University		 August 2006
Masters of Science in Educational Administration
University of Illinois Springfield, Springfield, IL		 May 2000
Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education
Illinois College, Jacksonville, IL		 May 1991