Carmen Lawson was born in Concord, CA and developed an early interest in teaching. Carmen moved to Oregon for college in 1998.

She pursued an education and training in Teaching with a focus in English as a Second Language and a Reading Specialist. This eventually led to a career in teaching the third grade at Madras Elementary School in Jefferson County, Oregon. Throughout her career, she has become known for leadership and advocating for equity in minimizing the opportunity gap.

In addition to her professional work. Carmen is a single mother of three sons. She loves to hike along the Deschutes River with her Bird Dog, eat tacos at area food trucks, and fosters Mustang horses.

Today, Carmen continues to lead at her school as an educator, advocate for the teaching union, and builds irreplaceable relationships with students.