Nikki Drury

Literacy Trainer

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

Every day I get to immerse myself in my favorite topic: Literacy!

What I believe in

I believe language is powerful, and when we give students the ability to use language, we empower them to shape the world with their words, learn more about themselves and others, and delight in the pleasures of great literature.

Previous work highlights

Before coming to the Center, I was a classroom teacher and literacy coach.

Favorite book

Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell

Fun fact

At 10 years old I was the Texas state baton twirling champion.

Education

BS Interdisciplinary Studies, Sam Houston State University

M.Ed. Educational Leadership, Texas A&M

October 4, 2022 Wendy Vaulton, Associate Director for Reading Recovery and Early Interventions

A is for Assessment: Considerations for linking assessment and instruction

Educational researcher Rachael Gabriel notes that a truly scientific approach to reading would acknowledge that “each student will require different kinds and degrees of support for component skills and the many processes of literacy” (Gabriel, 2021). But how do we uncover the kinds and degrees of support that will be most effective for individual students? Our best shot starts with assessment that is authentic, asset-based, actionable, and anti-racist. Think of these characteristics as a framework, wherein each facet supports the other in the development of responsive teaching.

September 14, 2022 Maria Nichols, Author & Consultant

Engaging Hearts and Minds Through Purposeful Talk

Create conditions and supports for engaging hearts and minds in ways that build depth of meaning making, compassion, and critical process for all students, including our youngest learners.

September 2, 2022 Cindy Downend, Associate Director of Literacy Programs

Focus on Phonics: Five Tips for a Successful Beginning with Phonics, Spelling and Word Study Lessons

Daily systematic explicit phonics instruction is essential for students to learn how to read effectively. Consider these five pointers for organizing your time and materials from the Fountas & Pinnell Phonics, Spelling, and Word Study Systems.