Joyful Beginnings in PreK & Kindergarten: Play Based Language & Literacy Learning

Courtney Varner Lorden, Literacy Trainer

Courtney’s educational career started in Fairfax County Public Schools, VA where she taught in 1st and 2nd grade, was a Reading Recovery teacher, and a literacy coach. In addition, Courtney is certified as a Literacy Collaborative Intermediate Coach.

Gen Arcovio, Literacy Trainer

Gen worked as a literacy specialist and teacher in public schools for many years before joining the Center for Reading Recovery and Literacy Collaborative as a Literacy Trainer. She has experience as a Reading Recovery teacher, classroom teacher, interventionist, and literacy coach. Over the years, she has worked with many students, educators, and administrators in the area of literacy acquisition and learning.

Irene Fountas, Director of the Center for Reading Recovery and Literacy Collaborative

Irene is the Marie M. Clay Endowed Chair in Early Literacy and Reading Recovery, and is the author of many books. She is director of the Center for Reading Recovery in the Graduate School of Education at Lesley University. She has been a classroom teacher, language arts specialist, and consultant in school districts across the nation and abroad. Irene and co-author Gay Su Pinnell have published numerous books and resources with Heinemann. She has received numerous awards for her contributions to literacy.

Cynthia Downend, Assistant Director, Literacy Programs

Cynthia Downend has worked at the Center for Reading Recovery and Literacy Collaborative for 15 years, serving in the roles of primary level literacy trainer and currently as the assistant 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.

Transition from In-Person to Virtual:

In-person training is currently available to a limited number of participants and you may choose that option. Should any of the conditions change and it is determined the training can be offered online only, you will be notified as soon as possible.

At this point in time, participants who have opted to come to Lesley University for the in-person format of professional learning must be prepared to follow Lesley University’s protocols (click for more information). Check this page for the most up-to-date information about safety protocols before you arrive and during your time on-campus.

Cancellation Deadline & Refund Policies

You must cancel in writing two weeks before the start of the course to get a refund, minus a $50 processing fee. Email CRRLC@lesley.edu to cancel. If you are unable to attend, you may send a substitute at any time. Regardless of weather conditions, if the event is held but you cannot attend, you will be billed for the full amount.

Registration Deadline & Shipping Policies

Requirements for Participation

After the training, you will receive a certificate of attendance for your participation. To receive a complete certificate, participation during the specified times is required. Additional work may be assigned to meet the professional development hours.