About Academic Allies 

We're Duke and Jen Marshall—veteran educators with over 70 years of combined experience who still wake up excited about this calling.

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After decades in classrooms, correctional education, district offices, and national consulting, we've learned that education isn't just what we do—it's who we are. We've weathered the storms, celebrated the victories, and discovered that when you truly answer the call to serve, every challenge becomes an opportunity to touch lifetimes.

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That's why we write, speak, and create resources for educators who remember why they chose this sacred work.

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Through our books (Beyond The Lesson series), podcast, keynote speaking, and free educator resources, we help new teachers find their footing and veteran educators rediscover the joy that brought them to their first classroom.

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This isn't about quick fixes or surface solutions. It's about authentic encouragement, honest conversations, and building school cultures where both students and staff don't just survive—they thrive in the calling that changes lives.

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Our work is part memoir, part mentorship, and part love letter to educators who believe this work still matters.

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Ready to remember why you fell in love with education? Your journey matters to us—let's walk it together.