Location: Bel Air, MD
Years of Teaching: 18
If you had to describe yourself as an educator, what six words would you use and why?
Relationship Builder – I believe that getting to know students and their family members is the essential first step in being able to accomplish anything in the classroom.
Joyful – I believe that, if we are not beacons of joy (even on the difficult days) for our students, we can’t even get to a place where learning can occur.
Learner – Every year, my students bring so many new ideas – about the world and the texts that we are reading. I learn so much from them, about new approaches and new interpretations to texts. I also love professional learning and bringing new ideas to my classroom.
Innovator – I always want to try new approaches. I am especially always looking for ways to subvert the traditional grading system, leveled classrooms, and many of the other practices that are “just the way that things are done.” In order to really create equitable learning environments for all students, we have to be willing to take some risks.
Believer – I believe that all students are capable of greatness. It is our job to provide a safe space to cultivate their greatness, and, if we do, greatness always follows.
What drew you to Reading Apprenticeship?
I love any professional learning – and the teaching of reading – so, when MSDE offered Reading Apprenticeship professional learning, I was in from the start. However, I had no idea how grateful I would be for that journey. Not only was Reading Apprenticeship a powerful game-changer in my classroom, I also just had such an amazing personal journey in the sessions. I learned more about myself as a reader and a teacher and became part of this amazing community!
What is your go-to Reading Apprenticeship routine?
Having to choose between The Golden Line Protocol and the Reciprocal Think Aloud is basically impossible.
Can you share a story about a time when you or a student had an “aha!” moment with Reading Apprenticeship?
I don’t know if I can think of a big “Aha” moment, but I feel like there is a point every year where I suddenly look around and realize how the protocols have become such habits for students that I feel like “my job is done” — at least for that year — because I know that the students now have a toolbox that they can utilize to approach new pieces of text.
If you could describe Reading Apprenticeship in a sentence, what would you say?
A way to empower a new generation of readers
What are you reading right now?
I am rereading Zero Days by Ruth Ware and Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain: Promoting Authentic Engagement and Rigor Among Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students by Zaretta L. Hammond
