I taught grades 3-5 for eight years and served as a Teacher-Leader and Instructional Coach for three years at a Title 1 charter school in Philadelphia. Now I’m an Early Literacy Specialist coaching teachers in grades K-3 on research-based best practices around literacy instruction and classroom management. I am a certified Reading Specialist (K-12) and have a master’s degree in Elementary Education.
I LOVE Reading & Writing Workshop, guided reading & strategy groups, collecting real data to guide teaching (I heart making spreadsheets!), and helping teachers create positive, respectful, joyful classrooms. Favorite programs/philosophies:
Favorite gurus/go-tos:
I was fortunate to have amazing coaches and mentors when I was in the classroom. One of my coaches was Jennifer Serravallo (name drop!). She coached me for several years around workshop practices. It was amazing! Jenn and my other phenomenal school-based mentors inspired and challenged me. They made me feel safe enough to be myself, be honest, be vulnerable. This allowed me to take many more professional risks than I would have ever done on my own. As a result I quickly fine-tuned my management and teaching style and before I knew it, I was mentoring my colleagues. Now it is my mission to be that kind of mentor to the teachers I serve. I hope this blog serves as another resource for my teachers and other passionate educators out there to find inspiration and challenge themselves for the hard work ahead. |