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How confident are you in the literacy tools you’re using?

Edufriend, One of the most common questions educators ask me is: “How do I know if this literacy resource is actually working?” Not working in theory, but working for their students. That question is at the heart of my upcoming March 5–6 literacy workshop, in Atlanta, Georgia, designed for educators in grades 3–8 (and others who support literacy instruction). This isn’t about adding more strategies. It’s about: Learning how to evaluate literacy resources with confidence Understanding what...

Hi Edufriend! Do you know the biggest literacy issues in Georgia? Well, the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education’s (GPEE) 2026 Top Ten Issues to Watch report identifies literacy as a critical priority. With the ongoing implementation of the Georgia Early Literacy Act, passed in 2023, and continued investments in literacy coaching, Georgia is taking meaningful steps to ensure all students develop strong foundational reading skills. Other states have taken similar measures. Due to...

Hi Edufriend! Lately, I’ve been thinking about how many educators are working harder than ever around literacy—and still feeling unsure about whether their efforts are leading to the outcomes they want for students. Not because they lack skill or commitment, but because choosing effective literacy tools has become overwhelming. Between curriculum mandates, pacing pressures, and an endless stream of resources, many teachers are left asking: Is this actually helping my students? How do I know...

Hi Edufriends! I would always navigate this space with my teacher hat on! I remain reflective and ask myself how can I support more educators? It is that reminder that we are not in this alone. Essential Workers Educators, this one’s for you. Across the country, budget cuts and funding freezes are making it harder for teachers to access meaningful professional learning. But growth can’t stop here. I am offering a redo of my most popular sessions presented at large conferences and educational...

Hi Edufriends, We are thrilled to invite you to the Fall 2025 Gathering hosted by The Educator Collaborative—a FREE K–12 Literacy Conference taking place Saturday, September 20th. At 11:00 AM EST, join Dr. Towanda Harris and Nita Creekmore for an energizing session: Independent Reading: Deepens Student Engagement & Transforms Classrooms In this interactive session, you’ll discover practical strategies to: Foster authentic student choice and voice in reading Build engagement through...

Hi Edufriends! Every school year brings new challenges, but what stays the same? Your heart for students. Your creativity. Your desire to do it better, differently—even if you’re tired. This is a first! I created the Right Tools Teacher Cohort—a space for educators to recharge and reflect together. Here’s what we’re covering: ✔️ Adapting curriculum to spark curiosity ✔️ Using AI tools to plan and differentiate ✔️ Free/low-lift resources to reignite reading ✔️ Writing routines that build skill...

Let’s be honest—teachers are planners, but we’re also jugglers, fixers, mentors, cheerleaders... and somehow expected to do it all on day one. But this fall, what if you start with you? Big Announcement Are you tired of the same old stale professional learning communities. I am so excited to announce The Right Tools Teacher Cohort. The title of this series is "Reignite Your Practice." This learning space is a 4-part student-centered virtual professional development series for educators who...

Hi Educators, Farewell for a Moment The summer breeze is right around the corner, and the temptation to throw it all to the wind is trying to pull us in! Run! In a recent LinkedIn Live, I discussed the most useful bullets that should be on your close-out list. Check Out My List! We talked about the 5 key components of a list that will end you as strong as you started the year. Check this out! Revisit your Strategic Plan or Class Goals Tier 1: Reflection Tier 2: High-Level Look at Data Tier 3:...

Is there really a secret sauce to it? "Thanks for a great balance of urgency about this work and taking the time to get to the details and let us talk about things in depth." -Teacher My Story I have 20+ years of experience in the P-12 space, and I have seen what works and what does not. My first teaching position was filled with 5th graders reading on a 1st-grade reading level. It was a huge challenge as we worked through the emotional and behavioral challenges that were before us. My...

Webinar Academic Framework Pre-Work Session Click to Register I get it; you are winding down the school year, and it's countdown time before your toes hit the sand, but hear me out. Give us just one hour of your time, and you will thank us later. Starting BEFORE the Back to School Rush As a school or organization leader, do you desire to create a solid ACADEMIC FRAMEWORK to minimize cost by… ☑️Building the capacity of your leadership team ☑️Providing a focus for teacher leaders with...