I've been teaching since 1972 when Mrs. Madigan, my fist grade teacher, gave me the responsibility leading one of the reading
groups. I was the kind of kid who needed responsibilities. I've been teaching in public schools since 1989. As a teacher I am known
for my work with high school readers and writers. As an instructional leader, I designed, piloted, and implemented a Reading Writing
Center concept at University High School. One side of the center was a classroom where I offered demonstration lessons to all
content teachers and their classes. The other side of the center was a literacy help center run by and for students. The model was
adpoted by Orange County Public Schools and listed as a recommended best practice in Orange County's League of Educational
Excellence.

I earned both my Bachelor of Arts and my Master of Arts in Literature from Florida State University. I completed a Specialist
degree in Curriculum and Instruction with Janet Allen at the University of Central Florida. I am a National Board Certified Teacher
and endorsed in gifted education.

I am devoted to professional development. My online graduate course, Preparing for National Board and Beyond, is offered
nationally by Teacher Education Institute. I am often invited to speak to teachers and professional associations in my district and
across the country. I have presented nationally for more than a decade with Janet Allen as well as in my district and state. I am an
avid reader and writer. Most recentl,y I have worked as a co-writer and senior developer on Janet Allen's Plugged-In to Reading
program published by Recorded Books.