Dr. Richard Allington

Wow! Dr. Allington is a very open and straight to the point speaker. He had very strong opinions and expressed his feelings with honesty. He does not believe that a program can actually improve reading. He encourages teachers to teach with all they have learned and to not rely on the use of a step by step program. Dr. Allington told us that very few reading programs actually have accurate research to prove they are successful. He stated that there are 6 things that every child should do everyday to become a better reader...

Every child reads something he or she chooses - Allow students to choose books that they like AND can read. This is in addition to books that are selected by their teacher.

Every child reads accurately - Many schools have increased the time spent on ELA but increased time doesn't mean that students are allowed to read books where they can be successful (98% accuracy or better). Students need to spend time reading texts that are not too challenging. Reading books where they can be successful increase the likelihood that they will become better readers.

Every child reads something he or she understands - Allington and Gabriel say that, "Understanding what you've read is the goal of reading. But too often, struggling readers get interventions that focus on basic skills in isolation, rather than on reading connected text for meaning."

Every child writes about something personally meaningful - Most times students are asked to continue sentences after a teacher prompt. Allow students to pick the topic and write about it. Yes, there are students who will struggle finding topics which is why it is important for teachers to brainstorm with their students.

Every child talks with peers about reading and writing - Provide students time to talk with one another about their reading and writing.

Every child listens to a fluent adult read aloud - Listening to an adult who reads fluently increases students' own fluency.

QR Codes and Booktalks!

During a mini session with Alice Ozma we learned how to incorporate interactive book talks into our classrooms using the ever popular QR codes! This inspiring session reached out to students who can take too long to find a book to read or for students that like to return a book after very little page turning. With book talks, students can listen to two-to-three minute presentations their peers have given on books they've read. After listening, students will know why others enjoyed it and will have a clearer idea if the book is something they are interested in. Ms. Ozma explained how easy and painless the process is to begin shooting and uploading videos for student book talks. She also explained how to link videos to QR codes and informed teachers of the many places QR codes can be placed. We cannot wait to begin inspiring our students with 21st century book talks!

LeVar Burton

LeVar told us stories about his mother being a school teacher and later a social worker. She was always helping others to learn and to believe in themselves. She encouraged LeVar to get a good education to help him be successful in life. LeVar treasures the time his mother spent reading to him. He created Reading Rainbow as a way to reach out to all children through the use of media. He always looked up to Fred Rodgers and believed he was very successful at using media to read to children. LeVar has developed a Reading Rainbow app for iPads and is continuously striving to make the show more technologically applicable for 21st century learners. He was a terrific speaker. We feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to see him in person at the IRA Conference.

Dinah Zike, M. Ed. Creator of Foldables

Kayla, Melissa, and Leigh Ann with Dinah Zike!! Wow!

Learning Experience Has Been BIG in Texas!!!

What a great experience this had been collaborating, planning and reflecting with such a great group of teachers. Having the opportunity to share ideas and strategies with teachers represented from all schools was phenomenal. This time together allowed us to work toward a common goal: meeting the needs of all students. We feel fortunate to have had the support and encouragement from Cindy and Patti. We would like to say "thank you" for providing us with this exciting experience.

Texas teachers?

Don't plan on staying! Alleghany County kids need you too much!!!

Musical Fun for Phonics

This session on teaching phonics through music and movement, offered great ideas to motivate and capture the attention of students. Implementing these fun and engaging activities will help students "break the code"of early reading.