Harnessing the Power of Oral Language in PreK and TK (Transitional Kindergarten) Classrooms
Opportunities to talk in the PreK and TK classroom play a very important role in supporting language development and growth.
- Classroom Teachers
- Literacy Coaches & Teacher Leaders
- Principals & Administrators
Join us for this complimentary webinar where we’ll discuss the four kinds of talk and explore opportunities to support language development throughout the school day. Gain practical ideas for developing children’s literacy through their talk. As Douglas Barnes famously wrote, “Learning floats on a sea of talk.”
Cynthia Downend, Associate Director, Literacy Programs 
Cynthia Downend has worked at the Center for Reading Recovery and Literacy Collaborative for many years, serving in the roles of primary level literacy trainer and currently as the Associate Director for Primary Literacy Programs.
Cynthia has worked with many school districts across the United States to train and develop district level literacy staff developers, literacy coaches, classroom teachers, literacy interventionists and school administrators on a variety of topics related to improving literacy instruction.
Prior to her work at Lesley University, Cynthia held positions as a literacy coach, Reading Recovery teacher, and classroom teacher for over 20 years working in a variety of school settings including urban, suburban, and international schools.
Heather Rodman, Literacy Trainer
Prior to joining the Center for Reading Recovery and Literacy Collaborative as a Primary Trainer, Heather was a Kindergarten, first, second, third, and fourth grade classroom teacher in Middletown, CT for 16 years. She was also a Primary Literacy Coordinator for five years where she provided literacy training and coaching to K-5 teachers. In addition, she was a member of the Connecticut Department of Education Common Core State Standards Curriculum Design Team for English Language Arts.
Registration Deadline
The registration portal closes on Monday, September 30, at 6:00 pm (EST).
Interested in professional learning at your school or district? Schedule a meeting with one of our faculty trainers.
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