In two decades as an educator, I’ve attended countless workshops, devoured professional books, articles and podcasts, and engaged in powerful learning experiences. But the learning that shaped me most? It came from coaching cycles, hallway conversations, and intervisitations where educators opened their doors, their hearts and minds, sharing what worked, wondering aloud, and learning alongside …
Continue reading Layered Coaching: A Lens on the Portrait of a Graduate
In an evolving world that is starting to be shaped by the rise of artificial intelligence, our classroom spaces must remain places of curiosity, connection, and thoughtful creation. At the recent ASCD + ISTE 2025 Conference, the Profile of an AI-Ready Graduate was introduced by Richard Culatta, not as a checklist of tech skills, but …
I usually start my Saturday mornings by reading blogs, articles, or newsletters I subscribe to. Some may think there are other ways I could begin my day, but for me, I carve out that time for learning and growth. With coffee in hand, it’s my way of sparking thinking for the week ahead and generating …
Continue reading 20 Education Blogs That Are Making a Difference
What does it truly mean to prepare students for the future? It’s a question that’s bigger than any one curriculum, assessment, or instructional strategy. It’s a question that calls us to pause and reflect, both as educators and as lifelong learners. As our leadership team began exploring the New York State Portrait of a Graduate, …
Continue reading Layering Learning: A Protocol for Educators to Deepen Reflection and Connection
Some leaders manage. Others direct. But the ones who have left a lasting imprint on me are those who coach…not once, not only when asked, but as a way of leading in all they do. This year, I had the privilege of onboarding our new literacy coach. From the outside, her transition from classroom teacher …
“If we want something to matter to them, they must first believe they matter to us.” —Zac Mercurio, The Power of Mattering Over the last few weeks, I had the opportunity to read through several end-of-year reflections from teachers. Do you know what was beautiful? Each one carried a story of care, creativity, and commitment …
One of the most powerful ways to bring people together in education is through a shared learning experience—one where ideas are lifted, voices are honored, and collective priorities begin to take root in meaningful ways. That’s exactly what an educational book club can offer when it’s designed with purpose and intention. It becomes a space …
Continue reading Beyond the Book: Ideas to Bridge Theory and Practice Through a Book Study
Throughout the trajectory of my career, nearly two decades spanning classroom teacher, literacy specialist, instructional coach, building leader, and now district leader, I’ve experienced just about every form of professional development. I’ve devoured books, tuned into countless podcasts, attended energizing conferences, and participated in more professional learning experiences than I can count. But if I’ve …
As educators, we are constantly evolving. We are learning, unlearning, and relearning to meet the needs of our students and the ever-changing landscape of education. The best professional growth doesn’t happen in isolation; it happens when we engage with and think about new ideas, challenge our thinking, and apply what we learn in meaningful ways. …
Continue reading Four Books Shaping My Thinking (and Why They Matter in Education)
This week felt like a whirlwind. Stepping into the days after a winter holiday break, my time was filled with important things - observations, professional learning days, community events, and the countless day-to-day interactions that bring both celebrations and some challenges. On top of that, my family obligations had me racing from one place to …
Empower. Collaborate. Connect. 