Sheila R. Thomas, Ph.D. is the founder of Thomas Educational Consulting and Training and Great Day Publishing, where she focuses on empowering parents of Black boys by providing essential tools and resources for their development.
As an accomplished author, Dr. Thomas has written several children's books, including J.R.'s Biggest Fan, Mommy's Little SONshine, and the coloring book Yes, I Can. She also authored the motivational book W.A.I.T.: Women Anticipating Incredible Turnaround, which explores personal struggles and transformative moments, emphasizing the power of faith and resilience. Her latest works, E.P.I.C. Empty Nesters and SONshine Affirmation Cards are valuable resources for parents and teachers, addressing life after children leave home and instilling positive affirmations in children, respectively. She also published Raising Brilliant Black Boys, a research-based journal offering strategies to support Black boys' social, emotional, and academic success.
Dr. Thomas's academic journey includes a Bachelor's and Master's in Early Childhood Education from Albany State University, a Specialist in Curriculum Instruction, Management, and Administration, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from NOVA Southeastern University. With over thirty years of experience, she has held roles in teaching and college professorship. She served as a Georgia Bright from the Start Trainer and Child Development Associate specialist, demonstrating her deep knowledge and skills in the field.
She has shared her expertise at conferences such as the Georgia Association for the Education of Young Children, the Professional Family Childcare Alliance of Georgia, HeadStart, and the Professional Association of Georgia Educators. She serves as an Educator Coach with the Black Child Development Institute and a College Supervisor for Valdosta State University student teachers. Dr. Thomas is also a member of the Learning Sciences Exchange (L.S.X.) Fellow with New America.
Dr. Thomas is not just an educator but also a devoted wife, mother of three sons, and grandmother. She actively participates in her community through organizations like Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the National Council of Negro Women, and Jack and Jill of America. Her life is deeply grounded in faith, and she is guided by her motto, "If I can help someone along the way, my living won't be in vain." Her dedication to her family and community is truly inspiring.