Profile

John practiced school-based occupational therapy for many years before pursuing graduate studies in law and public administration. After graduate school he served as associate director for the Disability Law Center of Utah, advocating for individuals with disabilities in a variety of areas including education, public benefits, and housing. Upon moving to Oregon, John held a research faculty position in the University of Oregon’s College of Education, where he directed a consulting unit serving state education agencies across the nation. Prior to joining the Knight Law Center, John oversaw safe and healthy schools initiatives and managed the state mediation program for the Oregon Department of Education.  He holds undergraduate degrees in occupational therapy, psychology, and legal studies, a master’s in public administration and policy, and a doctorate in law. He is currently a co-investigator on a federal research grant focused on integrating restorative justice practices with current school behavior management frameworks.