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Headshot of Cindy Downend

Cindy Downend

Associate Director, Literacy Programs

What I like most about my role within the Center is…

I love to teach! It is so rewarding to see how our work with educators can be so empowering and transformative. When you think in new ways about literacy teaching and learning, you change your practice to improve the school experiences of children.

What I believe in

The power of literacy to improve, enrich, and change people’s lives.

Previous work highlights

Many years as a classroom teacher, Reading Recovery teacher, and literacy coach in Michigan, Germany, Minnesota, and Florida.

Favorite book

All The Light We Cannot See, by Anthony Doerr

Fun fact

Many years ago I was smuggled across an international border to go snow-skiing!

Education

MA, Elementary Education, Western Michigan University
EdS, Educational Leadership, Nova Southeastern University

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Featured Blog Posts

December 1, 2023 Spring 2024 Online Offerings

Spring 2024: 8-Week Online Offerings

Stay cozy this spring and improve your career with an online offering, where you can learn at your convenience.

October 16, 2023 Linda Murphy, Associate Director of Literacy Programs

Three Reasons Why a Writer’s Notebook is an Important Tool for Writers

Encouraging your students to keep a writer’s notebook can nourish their informational and literary writing all year.

October 13, 2023 Melanie Meehan, Author & Elementary Writing Coordinator

Inviting Writers Into the Process: Three Strategies for Increasing Access 

Author & Elementary Writing Coordinator Melanie Meehan explains how she makes the writing process more accessible to students who are struggling.