I am proud of my 20-year career in education, especially the years I spent as a classroom teacher. I am currently working as an independent consultant dedicated and committed to helping DOE’s, schools, districts and teachers reach their goals in literacy and literacy education.

I feel fortunate for the opportunities and extensive experiences I have had working with educators. I spend my time teaching, researching, writing, speaking, and conducting seminars across the country in the areas of literacy, learning, and 21st century education.  My work is featured in the National Research Council Yearbook, multiple professional journals, and most recently in Urban Schools Most Promising Practices, published by the International Reading Association.

As an author of several books, articles, and curriculum support materials, I continually strive to connect research and scientific theory to real world practices. My classroom demonstrations and direct work with students, keeps me grounded in ensuring that the research base stays within the context of real classrooms and schools. 

For the past six years, I have created, developed, and organized multiple literacy institutes reaching thousands of educators across the United States. These summer institutes provide an innovative and unique venue for educators, administrators, and curriculum developers.  Every student reaches their highest literacy and learning potential when they are led by such knowledgeable and passionate leaders. 

Connecting higher education and the work done in schools, I have spent years working at the undergraduate and graduate level teaching courses in reading, content area reading, emergent literacy, and assessment.

I received my bachelor’s degree from University of Iowa and did my graduate and post graduate work at Drake University.

I currently live in Clive, Iowa with my husband and two children, Ryan and Abigail and our dog, Buttons.