Annual Conference Texas Association for Literacy Education - February 28-29, 2020 - Texas Association for ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Texas Association for Literacy Education
Annual Conference
February 28-29, 2020
Odessa Marriott Hotel & Conference Center
Hosted by:
Texas Association for UTPB
Literacy Education College of Education
Download the TALE 2020 app here
1
Marriott Map
2
THANK YOU
Sponsors & Exhibitors!
Diamond Level Sponsors
Matthew & Jody
Saulsbury
Gold Level Sponsors
3
Silver Level Sponsors
Friend Level Sponsors
Exhibitors
4
Who’s Who in TALE?
EXECUTIVE BOARD & OFFICERS PAST-CHAIRS
Malene Golding, Chair 2019-2020 Alida Hudson, January 2019-June 2019
Alida Hudson, Chair-Elect 2019-2020 Brad Womack, July 2018-December 2018
Jackie Ingram, Vice-Chair 2019-2020 Laurie Sharp, 2017-2018
Rebekah Piper, Executive Secretary Robin D. Johnson, 2016-2017
Shelly Landreth, Treasurer 2019-2021 Roberta Raymond, 2015-2016
Laurie Sharp, Past Chair 2019-2020 & 2018-2019 Patricia Durham, 2014-2015
Liza LaRue, ILA State Coordinator 2019-2022 Sharon O’Neal, 2013-2014
Kelli Bippert, Board Member 2018-2020 Carolyn Hunter Denny, 2012-2013
Kamshia Childs, Board Member 2018-2020 Jack Cassidy, 2011-2012
Matthew Panozzo, Board Member 2018-2020
Codi Freeman, Board Member 2019-2021
Pearl Garden, Board Member 2019-2021
Tara Wilson, Board Member 2019-2021
COMMITTEE DIRECTORS CONFERENCE COMMITTEE
Sara Ranzau, Advocacy Development Committee Tara Wilson, Co-Chair
Brandy Alexander, Community Involvement Director Shelly Landreth, Co-Chair
Kristi Morale, Educator Empowerment Charity Embley, Author Panel
Jackie Ingram, Membership Development Codi Freeman, Roundtables
Alida Hudson, Communication Pamela Vaughn, Posters
Kathy Stephens, TAIR Grants and Awards Amye Cotton, Exhibitors
Lisa Castillo, Proposal Reviewer
Angela Moore, Proposal Reviewer
PUBLICATIONS & WEBPAGE Mary Nottingham, Proposal Reviewer
Pamela Vaughn, Proposal Reviewer
Chase Young, Webmaster Codi Freeman, Proposal Reviewer
Amy Burke, TJLE Lead Editor Jennifer Ray, Proposal Reviewer
Elizabeth Kaye, TJLE Associate Editor Malene Golding, Program Reviewer
Mandy Stewart, TJLE Associate Editor Matthew Panozzo, Program Reviewer
Connie Briggs, TJLE Associate Editor Jackie Ingram, Program Reviewer
Melissa Walker, Newsletter Editor
Elaine Hendrix, Yearbook Managing Editor
Heather Pule, Yearbook Associate Editor
Thank you for your service!
5
2020 TALE Conference at a Glance
Exhibitor Set Up & Exhibitor Check-In Thursday, February 27th, 4:00-7:00
Friday, February 28th, 2020
8:00-5:30 Registration (Permian III)
8:00-5:30 Exhibit Hall Open (Permian III)
9:30-11:30 Workshops & Featured Author Chris Barton
11:30-12:45 Lunch on your own
1:00-2:45 Opening Session & Keynote Speakers (Permian II)
● Dr. Laurie Sharp, TALE Past-Chair & ILA Board of Directors
● Donalyn Miller, Author
3:00-5:00 Workshops & Author Panel
6:00-7:00 TALE Social & Research Posters (Permian I)
Light hors d’oeuvres and cash bar available
7:00-8:00 Entertainment featuring UTPB’s Ballet Folklorico (Permian I)
Saturday, February 29th, 2020
7:00-5:30 Registration (Permian III)
8:00-3:00 Exhibit Hall Open (Permian III)
8:00-8:30 Coffee & pastries provided
8:30-9:30 TALE Annual Meeting (Permian II)
● Malene Golding, TALE Chair
9:45-11:30 Keynote Speakers (Permian II)
● Kylene Beers & Robert Probst
● Book signing to follow
11:30-12:30 Lunch with Dr. Richard Gentry (Permian II)
Boxed lunch Included in registration fee
12:45-1:45 Breakout Session 1 / Roundtables 1 & Featured Speaker Clark T. Moreland
2:00-3:00 Breakout Session 2 / Roundtables 2 & Featured Speaker Dr. Emily O. Dean
3:15-4:15 Breakout Session 3, Featured Author Richard Gentry & Featured Speaker Cathie Combs
4:30-5:30 Breakout Session 4 & Featured Speaker Dr. Laurie Sharp
6
Conference Program
Friday, February 28th
Location EVENT
Permian III Registration 8:00-5:30
Exhibit Hall Open 8:00-5:30
Permian III Don’t forget to get your Bingo card stamped and turn it in at 12:45 pm on Saturday at the Registration
table to be eligible for door prize drawings! Winners will be posted at 3:00 pm on Saturday at the
Registration table and must be present to win.
Workshops & Featured Author 9:30-11:30
Permian II Barbara Jordan: Giving Voice to a Texas Legend
Beloved Texas hero Barbara Jordan may be best known for her time as a legislator—first in the state Senate,
Featured then the U.S. Congress—but her biggest contribution to our society may well have come from the job she had
Author next: teacher. And as with Jordan and her famous voice—depicted by Chris Barton and illustrator Ekua
Holmes in their book What Do You Do with a Voice Like That?—we all have natural gifts we can grow and put
to use in order to make the most of our roles in the lives of others.
Sponsored Chris Barton is the author of picture books including bestseller Shark vs.
by the Train, Sibert Honor-winning The Day-Glo Brothers, Orbis Pictus honoree
UTPB College of Dazzle Ships, and Whoosh!: Lonnie Johnson's Super-Soaking Stream of
Education Inventions, included on 19 state reading lists. His newest books include Fire
Truck vs. Dragon, What Do You Do with a Voice Like That? The Story of
Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, and All of a Sudden and
Forever: Help and Healing After the Oklahoma City Bombing. Chris and his
wife, YA/middle-grade novelist Jennifer Ziegler, live in Austin, Texas, where
Chris has advocated for greater diversity in children's literature by cofounding
the Modern First Library program with BookPeople. For more information
about him, please visit www.chrisbarton.info.
Devonian I Gettin’ Techy with the New ELAR TEKS
Elementary, Middle Grades
The ELAR TEKS are here! Join us for a hands-on, interactive session to dive DEEP (discover, engage,
experiment, produce) into the new ELAR TEKS. Discover easy ways to integrate technology to enhance
student engagement through exploration of ELAR TEKS.
Nicole Adkins, ESC Region 11
Crystal Klose, ESC Region 11
Travertine III Trauma is Impacting our learners. What do we do about it?
Preschool/Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
What is trauma? How does it affect literacy acquisition, and what do we do about it?
Gary Audas, Jr., Sam Houston State University
Jill Pagels, Sam Houston State University
Madison Edgar Mathis, Sam Houston State University
7
Travertine I We Wear the Mask: Breaking Down Cultural Barriers in the Secondary Classroom Using Multicultural
Literature
Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
This workshop will provide teachers, pre-service teachers and teacher educators with additional resources for
promoting diverse texts in the secondary classroom, ultimately providing teachers with tools for differentiation,
culturally responsive instruction, and student engagement using a range of multicultural texts and reading
reflection strategies.
Dr. Amy Barrios, Texas A&M University-San Antonio
Dr. Karen Kohler, Texas A&M University-San Antonio
Travertine II Metacognition: Thinking About Your Thinking
Elementary, Preservice Teachers
Empowering students and teachers through the use of metacognitive strategies is a powerful tool. Our goal is
to offer several ideas that will make this work concrete and engaging. At the conclusion of this professional
development, all participants will have an understanding of the strategies used by proficient readers when
constructing meaning from text.
Kacee Lambright, Texas A&M University
Karol Ann Moore, Texas A&M University
Devonian III Improving Reading Comprehension Across Disciplines through STREAM: A Makerspace Project-
Based Literacy Processes
Elementary, Middle Grades, Preservice Teachers
Learn how to engage elementary and middle school students to extend classroom instruction in a
makerspace environment using Miller's (2019) makerspace project-based learning literacy process.
Participate in a hands-on approach to engage in rereading activities to improve fluency, completing a
makerspace challenge and begin designing a makerspace challenge activity to incorporate 4 diverse STEM
learning styles. Discover how the process improves comprehension through written reflection and sharing
with a larger community.
Dr. Jennifer Miller, Sul Ross State University
Wolfcamp I Collaboration Through Co-Teaching
Preschool/Early Childhood, Elementary
Learn co-teaching strategies to make your teaching life easier so you can work smarter, not harder! In this
session, both the benefits of collaboration and the six models of co-teaching are shared through a slide
presentation and several handouts.
Kayla Northcutt, Frenship ISD
Devonian IV Selecting NONFICTION Your Students Will Devour
Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
With the combined experiences of a literacy coach and a 2018 Sibert Award committee member, Lex Anne
Seifert, MLS, and Debra Marshall, MLS, will inspire you to think more critically about nonfiction for today's
readers. Attendees will redefine nonfiction with academic language appropriate for the elementary, middle,
Friend Level and high school students and walk away with a list of new books to share in the classroom that the students
Sponsor are sure to READ.
Lex Seifert, Perma-Bound
Debra Marshall, Perma-Bound
8
Sandstone Light Their Fires: Using Student Choice to Fuel Your Kids Love of Reading
Middle Grades, Secondary, Preservice Teachers
Use engaging activities and technology to help your students rediscover their love of reading. This session
will help teachers create student-centered activities that promote positive student engagement and learning.
Emma Sobey, Sam Houston State University
Devonian II Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Literacy Difficulties, Oh My!
Elementary
This workshop will provide classroom teachers with structured, multisensory, and hands-on methods of
teaching literacy skills to students with dyslexia or dysgraphia, as well as students who struggle with reading
and writing. Participants will have "magic" tools to take back to their classrooms, to meet the learning needs
of all their students.
Bonnie J. Villarreal, University of Texas Permian Basin STEM Academy
Emily Olliff, University of Texas Permian Basin STEM Academy
Lucinda G. Hurlbut, University of Texas Permian Basin STEM Academy
Spraberry Foundational Reading Skills
Elementary, Preservice Teachers
Students must develop the foundational skills necessary to become proficient readers. Participants will learn
the predictors of reading success and how to implement effective, research-based strategies to accelerate
reading development.
Silver Level Kimberly D. Whaley, Read Naturally
Sponsor
Wolfcamp II Have a New Class by Friday! Real Strategies to Improve Cognitive Efficiency & Boost Performance for
Every Student in Your Classroom....Starting Now!
Preschool/Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary
Cognitive skills are the foundational tools for reading and learning. Learn the most common cognitive barriers
to learning, how to identify them in your students, and how to address them and boost performance. We will
have fun learning and trying practical tools and strategies you can use on Monday!
Julie Chambers, Learning Rx
Lunch On Your Own 11:30-12:45
9
Permian II Opening Session & Keynote Speakers 1:00-2:45
Welcome & Keynote 1: An Urgent Call for Literacy Leadership
Literacy education, the heart of the PreK-12 educational enterprise, has become increasingly complex.
Teachers must strive to provide high quality and impactful literacy instruction that meets a wide range of
diverse learning needs. To navigate the complexities associated with literacy teaching and learning
effectively, teachers must be literacy leaders who are lifelong learners, reflective practitioners, professional
collaborators, and committed advocates.
Dr. Laurie Sharp, TALE Past-Chair & ILA Board of Directors
Laurie A. Sharp, Ed.D. is an Associate Professor and Assistant Dean for
Undergraduate Studies at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas.
Laurie promotes student success among adult learners, actively participates in
professional service, and maintains an extensive scholarship record. Currently,
Laurie serves as an elected member of the International Literacy Association’s
Board of Directors (2019-2022).
Keynote 2: Book Access for All
Introduction by Malene Golding, M.Ed., TALE Chair 2019-2020
Children and teens with meaningful access to books at school and home achieve higher levels of academic
attainment (Evans, et al. 2014) and reading engagement (Guthrie, 2008). Unfortunately, too many young
people, disproportionately children of color, indigenous children, and poor children, live in “book deserts”
without the book access they need (Neuman & Moland, 2016). Even when books exist, restrictions on
readers’ choices and practices that undermine readers’ agency long term can limit access, too. Donalyn Miller
will share the conditions that support young readers’ book access and reading engagement, and resources
for finding, evaluating, and sharing books
Donalyn Miller, Author
Donalyn Miller is an award-winning Texas teacher and author of several books
on engaging children with reading including The Book Whisperer (Jossey-Bass,
2009) and Reading in the Wild (Jossey-Bass, 2013). Donalyn is the co-founder
of the community blog Nerdy Book Club and co-hosts the monthly Twitter chat
#titletalk. Her articles about teaching and reading have appeared in publications
such as Education Week Teacher, The Reading Teacher, Educational
Leadership and The Washington Post.
10Location Workshops & Author Panel 3:00-5:00
Permian II Author Panel & Autographing 3:00-5:00
Moderator: Dr. Charity Embley, Odessa College
Chris Barton is the author of picture books including bestseller Shark vs. Train,
Sibert Honor-winning The Day-Glo Brothers, Orbis Pictus honoree Dazzle Ships,
and Whoosh!: Lonnie Johnson's Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions, included on
19 state reading lists. His newest books include Fire Truck vs. Dragon, What Do
You Do with a Voice Like That? The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman
Barbara Jordan, and All of a Sudden and Forever: Help and Healing After the
Oklahoma City Bombing. Chris and his wife, YA/middle-grade novelist Jennifer
Ziegler, live in Austin, Texas, where Chris has advocated for greater diversity in
children's literature by co-founding the Modern First Library program with
BookPeople. For more information about him, please visit www.chrisbarton.info.
A.G. Howard is the #1 NYT & International Bestselling author of young adult
retellings/spinoff novels and adult gothic paranormal romances. Her dark Alice in
Wonderland inspired Splintered series has been published in over a dozen
languages and has hit bestselling lists both internationally and domestically.
René Saldaña, Jr. is the author of several titles for children and young
adults, among them The Jumping Tree, The Whole Sky Full of Stars, A
Good Long Way, Heartbeat of the Soul of the World, and the bilingual
Mickey Rangel, detective series. He is currently co-authoring a trilogy of
novels on girl boxing with poet and artist Van Garrett that got its start
when the two met at another TALE conference.
Loretta Diane Walker, a multiple Pushcart Nominee, and Best of the Net
Nominee, won the 2016 Phyllis Wheatley Book Award for poetry, for her
collection, In This House (Bluelight Press). Loretta was named “Statesman in the
Arts” by the Heritage Council of Odessa. Her work has appeared in various
literary journals, magazines, and anthologies throughout the United States,
Canada, India, and the UK. She has published five collections of poetry. Her most
recent collection is Ode to My Mother’s Voice and Other Poems, Lamar
University Press. Her manuscript Word Ghetto won the 2011 Bluelight Press
Book Award. Loretta received a BME from Texas Tech University and earned an
MA from The University of Texas of the Permian Basin. She teaches elementary
music at Reagan Magnet School, Odessa, Texas. Naomi Shihab Nye states,
“Loretta Diane Walker writes with compassionate wisdom and insight—her
poems restore humanity.”
11Location Workshops 3:00-5:00
Devonian III Stop! Integrate and Listen....
Elementary, Middle Grades
Informational texts are difficult for students to read and understand, but vital for comprehending the world
around them. Most reading they do throughout their lives will be in this complex genre. Come engage in
hands on activities, learn book lists, incorporate technology, and discover resources for integrating literacy
and equipping your students to flourish on their learning journey.
Nicole Adkins, ESC Region 11
Crystal Klose, ESC Region 11
Travertine III Digital Text: Understanding How to Use Digital Text Effectively
Middle Grades, Secondary
This hands-on workshop will demonstrate to participants the current research and limitations of research on
reading digital text. Participants will begin by investigating research that outlines what is required for
Diamond Level comprehending either print or digital text. Teachers will develop their own classroom protocols when
Sponsor instructing students to comprehend and analyze with digital text.
Stacy Courtright, EMCSchool, Carnegie Learning
Wolfcamp I Authentic Literacy for Real Classrooms
Middle Grades, Secondary
For students to improve as readers, they must read. Too many aren't. This session will focus on building
classroom time for reading by integrating authentic writing from authentic reading, highlighting the benefits of
self-selected texts, emphasizing culturally relevant and diverse texts, and underscoring the value of
voluminous reading and building a culture of reading--all while providing students with skills for success on
state assessments and beyond.
Michael M. Guevara, Southwest High School, SWISD
Spraberry Gobblefunk: Pushing Aside Conformity for PBL and STEM Education
Elementary
Find out how to incorporate Project Based Learning techniques into ELAR Curriculum using novels, projects,
AVID strategies, and cross-curricular collaboration.
Beverley Kimble, University of Texas Permian Basin STEM Academy
Crystal Mineo, University of Texas Permian Basin STEM Academy
Iva Hodges, University of Texas Permian Basin STEM Academy
Travertine II Innovative Phonics Program Systematically Teaches Next Generation Sight Word List for Rapid
Reading Proficiency
Preschool/Early Childhood, Elementary
This innovative phonics system uses colorful, child-centered picture cues and systematically teaches an
updated, contemporary list of sight words. Research-based to quickly cultivate readers who can
Exhibitor
independently read 90% of words in texts they typically encounter.
Jayne Latty, First Words Fast
Julie Quick Fore
Esmeralda Ramirez
Elizabeth Norman
Mark Giovanni Finnell
Shauner Murray
12Sandstone It's Your Turn to Play....in Literacy Stations!
Preschool/Early Childhood, Elementary, Preservice Teachers
Come play in this interactive workshop as you experience hands-on, engaging and interactive literacy
stations! Participants will learn, share and discover how all aspects occur naturally through play.
Dr. LaShera McElhany, Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Devonian I Supporting Dyslexic and Dysgraphic Learners in the Classroom
Elementary, Middle Grades, Preservice Teachers
As more and more students are identified with dyslexia and dysgraphia, it is essential that teachers have the
knowledge and tools to support them adequately in the context of the regular classroom. This session will
address common characteristics, struggles seen in the classroom, and ways to help students feel confident
and successful on every day assignments.
Karol Ann Moore, Texas A&M University
Devonian II Why Teach Students Cursive Handwriting? Asking For a Friend.
Elementary, Preservice Teachers
A recent national survey suggests that 75% of the elementary teachers surveyed believe they are not
adequately prepared to teach handwriting. Whether you are one of those teachers or just "asking for a friend,"
come experience this empowering, interactive, and entertaining workshop and leave with a wealth of practical
activities and "handy" instructional tips.
Aaron J. Penton, Texas A&M University
Wolfcamp II The Six Syllables: Helping Students Leap into Multi-syllabic Words
Elementary, Preservice Teachers
In this session, participants will learn about the six syllable types and their importance to beginning literacy
instruction. Since correctly reading and spelling vowel sounds tends to be the most problematic for beginning
and struggling readers, knowledge of the six syllable types (i.e. closed, open, VCe, vowel pair, vowel r, final
stable syllable) is imperative as it provides students with a clue as to the sound the vowel will make. The
presenters will provide foundational information on the syllable types and common syllable division as well as
discuss activities to use for instruction within the classroom.
Melissa Walker, Katy ISD
Alida K. Hudson, Texas A&M University
Travertine I Ripped from Reality: When Students' Stance on Literacy Mirrors the Lyrics of Their Lives
Preschool/Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary
Literacy was always meant to link students to humanity, but there is often a disconnect when they are unable
to authentically relate. When students are afforded the opportunity to delve into text that parallels their
realities, intrigue and literacy investment are in the horizon. Author Carla Michelle examines strategies for
unearthing literacy-based epiphanies through students' comforts, chaos, culture, context and cuisine.
Carla Michelle Brown, aspirExcel Enterprises
13Permian I TALE Social & Research Posters 6:00-7:00
Light hors d’oeuvres and cash bar available
Category: Literacy and Math Achievement: Using Interactive Read-Alouds to Foster the Acquisition of
Doctoral Mathematics Vocabulary in an Elementary Classroom
Elementary
This study aims to understand how interactive read-alouds using math-based picture books, fosters the
acquisition of mathematics vocabulary in an elementary classroom. Further, the study looks to determine the
effectiveness of writing reflections as it pertains to the use of and mastery of mathematics vocabulary.
Michele Cantera, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
Category: Vocabulary Instruction: What Effective Teachers Do
Doctoral
Elementary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Vocabulary is considered a successful key in reading achievement, especially in primary grades. The NRP
report provided valid evidence that vocabulary is one of the essential components of successful reading
(NICHD, 2000). According to Sousa (2011), researchers agree that early childhood is the best time to acquire
language skills because the brain development of young children makes these years a prime time for learning
oral vocabulary. Classic research findings state that children who come from homes with low socioeconomic
situations also come to school with a lower level of word knowledge. “Although the cognitive deficits in
children from low-income families can seem daunting, the strategies available today are far more targeted
and effective than ever before. Kids from all over the United States can succeed with the right interventions.” -
Eric Jensen This poster presentation introduces the beginnings of research that centers around what highly
effective teachers do when conducting vocabulary instruction. The goal of this research is to help the new
and novice teacher teach and understand the importance of intentional, effective vocabulary instruction.
Pearl Garden, Texas A&M University Commerce
Category: Learning Vocabulary through Technology Reveals Vocabulary Growth in Second Grade Students
Other
Elementary
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the integration of technology for second
grade students' vocabulary development and learning.
Dr. Suhua Huang, Midwestern State University
Category: Simple Methods Produce Better Results
Other
Preschool/Early Childhood, Elementary
A pilot of First Words Fast in 4 Jamaican schools show that simple methods are practical for teachers and
more effective for children in acquiring fundamental literacy skills.
Jayne Latty, First Words Fast
Exhibitor Ben Williams
James Earle
Shauner Murray
Category: A Photovoice Study: Critical Bilingual Teacher Preparation Narratives Around Bi-literacy
Undergraduate
Adult/College
The poster will discuss how we, pre-service bilingual teachers, engaged as participatory co-researchers to
collectively analyze our sociolinguistic experiences related to literacy. Our initial results inform strategies to
decide which sociolinguistic ideologies around biliteracy and numeracy to reproduce or dismantle when
approaching our bilingual learner students. A second aspect of this study focused on understanding how
sociolinguistic explorations during teacher education programs can strengthen our commitment to serving
English language learners.
Yamileth Orozco, University of Texas Permian Basin
Febe Tovar, University of Texas Permian Basin
14Category: A Participatory Visual Study: Critical Dialogues in English as a Second Language/Bilingual Teacher
Undergraduate Preparation
Adult/College
The poster presents initial insights of pre-service bilingual teachers who collectively analyzed their
sociolinguistic experiences related to literacy. These initial results inform strategies to decide which
sociolinguistic ideologies around biliteracy and numeracy to reproduce or dismantle when approaching our
English Language Learner students. A second aspect of this study focused on understanding how
sociolinguistic explorations during teacher education programs can strengthen our commitment to serving
English language learners.
Ingrid Hernandez, University of Texas Permian Basin
Yasmira Madrid, University of Texas Permian Basin
Category: Unpacking Critical Dialogues in Bilingual Teacher Preparation Around Bi-Literacy
Undergraduate
Adult/College
This participatory study unpacked how biliteracy experiences of pre-service bilingual teachers relates to
sociolinguistic ideologies that need to be dismantled in classrooms with English Language Learners. Our
initial results inform strategies to decide which sociolinguistic ideologies around biliteracy and numeracy to
reproduce or dismantle when approaching our bilingual learner students. A second aspect of this study
focused on understanding how sociolinguistic explorations during teacher education programs can strengthen
our commitment to serving linguistically diverse populations.
Ana Vera, University of Texas Permian Basin
Jocelyn Gonzalez, University of Texas Permian Basin
Category: Diversity in Literacy Education: Teacher Educators Beliefs on Teacher Preparation Around Topics of
Other Diversity
Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Classroom teachers have the potential to impact student development through classroom instruction. This
session will include a presentation of findings of one state study that explored teacher educators’ perceptions
of the preparedness of teacher candidates as they enter the field to teach literacy with an emphasis on
diversity.
Dr. Rebekah E. Piper, Texas A&M University San Antonio
Dr. Laurie A. Sharp, Tarleton State University
Dr. Roberta D. Raymond, University of Houston Clear Lake
Category: Literacy Intervention: Leaping Into Unknown Territories in Punta Gorda, Belize
Undergraduate
Elementary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Schreiner University pre-service teachers enrolled in EDUC 4380: Directed Study in Education traveled to a
remote town in Belize to work with English Language Learners who were struggling with reading. The
purpose of this study abroad course is to conduct research to determine the effectiveness of scientifically-
based reading research strategies among struggling readers with the use of ongoing assessment.
Karen Taylor, PhD, Schreiner University
Meredith Jones, Schreiner University
Austin Cervantes, Schreiner University
Isabelle Christianson, Schreiner University
Brisa Perez, Schreiner University
Permian I Entertainment featuring UTPB’s Ballet Folklorico 7:00-8:00
15Saturday, February 29th
Location EVENT
Permian III Registration 7:00-5:30
Exhibit Hall Open 8:00-3:00
Permian III Don’t forget to get your Bingo card stamped and turn it in at 12:45 pm on Saturday at the Registration
table to be eligible for door prize drawings! Winners will be posted at 3:00 pm on Saturday at the
Registration table and must be present to win.
Permian III Coffee and pastries in the Exhibit Hall 8:00-8:30
Permian II TALE Annual Meeting 8:30-9:30
Malene Golding, M.Ed, TALE Chair 2019-2020
Join the TALE leadership for our annual meeting which will include updates on TALE, committee work, ILA
and information on how you can get involved! Research poster award winners will be recognized, and the
winners of the annual Literacy Leadership Award and the Jack Cassidy Award will be presented.
Permian II Keynote Speakers 9:45-11:30
Sponsored by Welcome: Dr. Scott Muri, Ector County ISD Superintendent & Orlando Riddick, Midland ISD
Ector County Superintendent
ISD
Keynote: Why Reading Matters More Now Than Ever Before
Introduction by Dr. Lilia Nanez, Ector County ISD Associate Superintendent of Curriculum &
Instruction
When kids can learn almost anything they need to learn by watching a YouTube clip or enjoy almost any
book by listening to Audible, the question that we must all be able to answer is “Just why is reading still
important?” In this keynote, Beers and Probst will share why reading is a critical skill in this 21st century
world. They’ll share strategies that help all readers, but especially our most disengaged readers, become
more engaged with texts--fiction and nonfiction. With their hallmark humor and their practical strategies,
Beers and Probst will help us all understand not only how to develop engaged readers, but why a nation of
readers is critical to the preservation of our democracy.
Kylene Beers, author of When Kids Can’t Read/What Teachers
Can Do (Heinemann, 2003), and Robert E. Probst, author of
Response and Analysis, 2nd edition (Heinemann, 2004), are
respected authorities on reading instruction. Kylene—focusing
more on reading strategies—and Bob—focusing more on
engagement and literary analysis—present together to show
teachers and administrators how coordinated attention to
strategies and engagement help readers, especially those who
struggle, improve.
16Permian II Lunch with Dr. Richard Gentry 11:30-12:30
Boxed lunch included in registration fee
Featured The Spelling Connection to Reading Comprehension: New Insights from the Science of Reading
Author Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Studies of the reading brain in cognitive science and neuroscience are informing best practices for teaching
Lunch reading comprehension. Find out some dramatic new insights for improving reading scores and fostering
Sponsored by better readers in Texas.
Zaner-Bloser
A former classroom teacher and university professor, J. Richard Gentry, PhD is
an internationally acclaimed author, researcher, and educational consultant
known for his ground-breaking work in education on topics such as early literacy;
best-practices for reading, writing, and spelling; and dyslexia. In addition to
authoring 17 books, 2 textbook series, and numerous journal and magazine
articles, he blogs for the prestigious Psychology Today magazine offering
commentary on a range of topics including education and policy, reading and the
brain, baby/toddler reading, and educational standards. Recent books and
textbooks include Brain Words: How the Science of Reading Informs Teaching
(Stenhouse Publishers, 2019), Kid Writing in the 21st Century (Hameray
Publishing Group, 2017) and Spelling Connections (Zaner-Bloser, 2020 Texas
Edition), a popular evidence-based spelling series for grades K-6. Dr. Gentry
received a BA from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and a PhD from
the University of Virginia. He currently resides in Mobile, Alabama and can be
reached at Richard@jrichardgentry.com
Location Breakout Session 1 / Roundtables 1 12:45-1:45
Permian II “On the Reading of Old Books”: Engaging Students in Historical Readings
Featured Speaker Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Literacy pedagogies at the secondary and college-level, particularly in the seams of college prep and
developmental IRW courses, often employ strategies that are more easily suited to textbooks or other
contemporary readings. This session will offer ways to adapt those strategies to historical readings which
students may encounter in college level English, history, and science courses. It will also reveal reasons why
students are often fearful to engage with older texts and why teachers are sometimes hesitant to assign
them. Using a Teaching for Transfer model, the presenter will offer engaging and modifiable lesson plans
which demystify literary conventions and help students acclimate themselves to the historical and cultural
constraints of an older text. It will conclude with a discussion of the importance of including historical readings
in college prep, IRW, and first-year composition courses.
Clark T. Moreland, University of Texas Permian Basin
Clark T. Moreland is a Lecturer of English at the University of Texas Permian
Basin, where he has taught composition, rhetoric, and American literature
courses for fifteen years. He is a founding member of the UTPB Dual Enrollment
Academy, one of the first online early college high schools in the nation. Clark
has received several teaching honors, including in 2014 when he was named as
a recipient of the University of Texas Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award. In
2019, he was named the Provost Fellow for Engaged Learning at UTPB, and
serves on the UT System Affordable Learning Accelerator Task Force. His
scholarship focuses on the intersection of literature, religion, art, and culture. He
is the author of Will: Parenting at the Crossroads of Disability and Joy, a memoir
about raising a son with Down syndrome, and has also published on gender in
the works of Edgar Allan Poe. He has presented at national conferences on the
literature of the Civil Rights Movement as well as on dual enrollment pedagogy.
He is currently writing a book on Christian pacifism in the works of C.S. Lewis and
Martin Luther King, Jr.
17Roundtables
Preparing Students for the New Science of Reading Test - Sharing Best Practices and Resources
Limestone
Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades
Table 1
It is imperative to prepare pre-service teachers in the science of reading grounded in scientific evidence of
how reading develops, why students have difficulties, and how to access and effectively use research-based
strategies in the essential components of reading instruction. It looks like Texas has chosen their side in the
"reading wars" and returned to a phonics-based approach with the newly acquired Science of Reading Test
for EC-3 certification. This session will discuss best practices and resources for using the science of reading
along with the art of communication to create a culture of literacy for all students.
Dr. Neva Cramer, Schreiner University
Dr. Karen Taylor, Schreiner University
Limestone Addressing the Needs of the Whole Child: Embedding Social and Emotional Lessons through Book
of the Month
Table 2
Elementary
Participants will be shown and taken through examples of how our district has embraced the idea of Book of
the Month to enhance our Balanced Literacy Framework. With the need to address the whole child, Ysleta's
Book of the Month has embedded lessons from "Kindness in the Classroom" to teach and support our Social
and Emotional Framework and much needed focus for the year. These lessons are embedded into specific
picture books (both English and Spanish) as an authentic means for teachers to utilize in their classrooms.
Diane Flores, Ysleta ISD
Perla Subia, Ysleta ISD
Cecilia Serna, Ysleta ISD
Limestone Redesigning the Lily Pad: Practitioners Input for Successful At-Risk Nonfiction Reading
Comprehension
Table 3
Elementary, Middle Grades
In this roundtable discussion, the focus will be on giving educators an opportunity to discuss "best practice"
pedagogy techniques in teaching nonfiction reading comprehension to upper elementary and adolescent at-
risk students who do not fall under the special education umbrella.
Dr. Silke Piper, Belton ISD
Limestone Review Sources: Tools that Help Teachers and Librarians Select the Best Book for their Students
Table 4 Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Attend this roundtable to learn about professional selection tools, spend time reading reviews from multiple
sources, and discover the "formula" for writing a review.
Lex Seifert, Perma-Bound
Friend Level
Debra Marshall, Perma-Bound
Sponsor
Sandstone The Need for Cultural Literacy Practices in Urban Elementary Schools
Table 1 Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Students should see reflections of themselves in the texts they encounter. Participants will engage in
meaningful dialogue about the need for critical literacy practices in urban elementary schools.
Amisha Blake, University of Houston-Clear Lake
18Sandstone Literacy Applied - Literacy Plan K-12
Table 2 Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary
Take your Literacy Plan to the next level. Literacy Applied - is a literacy plan that is grounded in the principles
of balanced literacy focusing all learners K-12 grounded in Understanding by Design and the principles of
Universal Design for learning.
Robyn Carrier, Spring ISD
Stacy Parker, Spring ISD
Dr. Kabrina Johnson, Spring ISD
Sandstone R.E.A.D. @ TALE (Special Interest Committee of TALE)
Table 3 Adult/College
Participants should attend to learn about a new Special Interest Committee whose mission is to engage in
understanding and supporting the needs of all students and teachers in Texas no matter their backgrounds.
Beyond understanding the characteristics that make us unique, R.E.A.D.@TALE accepts and affirms the
diversity, showcasing it as the quality that makes us stronger. Come join us to discuss what our work will
include, and how we can impact your unique literacy spaces and environments.
Dr. Kamshia Childs, Texas A&M University-Commerce
Pearl Garden, Texas A&M University-Commerce
Rachel Collins, Hereford ISD
Ileana Jennings, Amarillo ISD
Sandstone Involve to Evolve: Families Sharing and Interacting to Help Build Literacy Development
Table 4 Elementary, Preservice Teachers
How can parent involvement, teacher candidates, and an online-reading program help to increase reading
skills of elementary students? That's simple, by partnering together. Discover how a framework used with a
university's literacy-based field-based program helped to increase the reading levels of its students.
Dr. Pamela Vaughn, Stephen F. Austin State University
Sandstone Transforming Teacher Practice: The Case for Curriculum as Professional Learning
Table 5 Preschool/Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Preservice Teachers
In this professional learning experience, participants will examine the idea of educative instructional materials
as a powerful pathway to transform teacher practice.
Tamera Slaughter, Center for the Collaborative Classroom
Dawn Castilleja, Center for the Collaborative Classroom
Breakout Sessions
Spraberry Unpacking the Sociolinguistic Crossroad of Bilingual Educators: Critical Dialogues in Bilingual
Teacher Preparation Around Bi-Literacy
Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Coupling the participatory visual methodology, Photovoice (Wang, 2006; Latz, 2017) and Alzanduan’s Border
theory (1987), the study focuses on critical dialogues between pre-service bilingual teachers around their
own sociolinguistic and bi-literacy experiences as related to their professional identity formation.
Dr. Yuliana Kenfield, University of Texas Permian Basin
Dr. Yolanda Salgado, University of Texas Permian Basin
19Devonian II Write-Away: Writing Across the Curriculum and Beyond
Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Writing is necessary and relevant to everyone! Attend this session to learn how to integrate writing activities
in any subject area within your educational setting (including P.E. and Fine Arts) with creative, culturally
relevant, and engaging prompts. Participants will also leave the session with a wealth of resources and ideas
to motivate students to write outside of the school setting.
Dr. Kamshia Childs, Texas A&M University Commerce
Travertine I One Page Away
Elementary
This session focuses on using a single sheet of paper to have students create and show their
comprehension of any selected text. The one pager is an essential tool for assessing in a differentiated and
authentic manner.
Maritza Acosta, University of Texas Permian Basin STEM Academy
Alexis Machuca, University of Texas Permian Basin STEM Academy
Wolfcamp II The Future of Balanced Literacy
Elementary
The number of digital natives increases each year. Balanced Literacy is changing to address the needs of
technology driven students. This session takes an interactive look into how to incorporate technology into a
successful Balanced Literacy Framework.
Adrian Decker, Waco ISD
Millie Blackwell, Abbott ISD
Wolfcamp I Structured Literacy Instruction
Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
An interactive presentation about structured literacy instruction and the types of students best served by this
type of instruction. Participants will have the opportunity to collaborate about the types of activities that may
be used in relation to structured literacy instruction and student learning level.
Dr. Jennifer S. Ray, Round Rock ISD
Travertine II Reading for Meaning--Fluently
Elementary, Middle, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Learn how to develop fluency, support vocabulary, and promote comprehension by combining three
powerful, research-based strategies: teacher modeling, repeated reading, and progress monitoring.
Silver Level Dr. Kimberly D. Whaley, Read Naturally
Sponsor
Travertine III Teaching Struggling Readers with ADHD Successful Reading Strategies
Secondary
The focus of this presentation is to explore the complexities of reading comprehension disorders for students
with ADHD. The session will highlight a book titled The Struggles of Minority English Learners: How Learner
Feedback Can Improve English Skills, which will offer strategies to overcome these hurdles and manage a
classroom better.
Maryann Hasso, Victor Valley College
20Devonian IV Small Group Guided Reading Fundamentals
Elementary, Preservice Teachers
Small Group Guided Reading is a concept we frequently hear about in the literacy world, but what should
actually happen in this small group? What do teachers need to know and how do they improve their
knowledge base? Join us as we learn, engage, and dig deeper into Small Group Guided Reading
fundamentals.
Kristi Strickland, Fort Worth ISD
Devonian III Literacy, Science and Social Studies with Hank the Cowdog
Elementary
Combine literacy, science, and social studies! Come learn about the Ranch Life book series, an educational
book series by John R. Erickson featuring Hank the Cowdog, and educational activities that accompany the
book.
Julie Hodges, National Ranching Heritage Center at Texas Tech University
Devonian I Newly Released Books by Texas Writers for Tweens and Teens
Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Join us for book talks about new releases in 2019 and 2020 by Texas authors for middle grade and young
adult readers. Encounter new stand-alone and series books in various genres for you and your colleagues to
enjoy and to share with readers.
Dr. Amy Cummins, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Dr. René Saldaña, Jr., Texas Tech University
Whitney Beach, Texas Tech University
Location Breakout Session 2 / Roundtables 2 2:00-3:00
Permian II Mythbuster: What Teachers Need to Know About Dyslexia
Featured Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College Learners, Preservice Teachers
Speaker
In this session, teachers will learn about the characteristics of dyslexia, bust common myths about dyslexia,
and discover new ways to support students with dyslexia.
Emily O. Dean, PhD, Hardin Simmons University
Silver Level
Sponsor Dr. Emily Ocker Dean is an associate professor of education, program director
of the Master of Education in Reading, and director of the Houston-Lantrip
Center for Literacy and Learning at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene,
Texas. She is a reading specialist, certified academic language therapist, and
Texas licensed dyslexia therapist. Dean currently teaches courses in beginning
literacy, classroom organization of reading instruction, and graduate level course
in reading theory, reading instruction, and early literacy intervention. Additionally,
as the director of the Houston- Lantrip Center for Literacy and Learning, she
trains dyslexia interventionists, provides language therapy to students with
dyslexia, and serves as a community resource on dyslexia, dysgraphia, and
related reading difficulties.
21Roundtables
LImestone Meet With Members of the Advocacy Development Committee
Table 1 Adult/College
Please join members of the Advocacy Development Committee to learn about what they do, their focus for
the year, HB 3, as well as ways and resources for self-advocacy.
Dr. Sara Ranzau, Boerne ISD & Schreiner University
Advocacy Development Committee Director
Limestone Engaging Preservice Teachers with Read-Alouds
Table 2 Elementary, Middle Grades, Preservice Teachers
This roundtable session will discuss the findings from an action research study exploring the use of read-
alouds with preservice teachers in two elementary certification courses, including elementary literacy and
bilingual education. Texts and strategies used in each setting will be shared.
Dr. Laura Slay, Texas A&M University Commerce
Dr. Tami Morton, Texas A&M University Commerce
Limestone Meet With the Editors of the Texas Journal of Literacy Education (TJLE)
Table 3 Adult/College
Please join the editorial board of TJLE, the official journal of TALE, to learn more about how to submit your
work. We will discuss the submission procedure, the review process, and answer any questions you may
have about the journal and the publication process. TJLE is a peer-reviewed journal and welcomes research
and practitioner articles related to language and literacy practices, from early childhood through adult, inside
and outside of the classroom. We welcome all voices from literacy researchers, classroom teachers, and
graduate students.
Amy Burke, PhD, Co-Editor
Sandstone The Path to Teaching Social Emotional Learning
Table 1 Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Attendees will learn how to address the needs of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) through the lens of
literature using introspective activities, discussions, and reflective discovery writing.We will share current
research on why we need Social Emotional Learning in all levels of education. We will model classroom
activities, which can be modified for all levels, as we learn through activities about our own identities, learn
about our own biases and microaggressions, and how to be proactive for more inclusive thinking.
Ileana Jennings, Amarillo ISD
Rachael Collins, Hereford ISD
Sandstone The New High School TEKS - Same Song Different Verse: Balanced Literacy in an English Class
Table 2 Secondary
The new TEKS come to high school in the 2020-21 school year. Are you ready? The presenter, a member of
the TEKS writing team, will demonstrate how the strands in the new TEKS make space for balanced literacy
in the high school English. Model lesson plans will be provided.
Dr. Carol Revelle, Texas A&M University Commerce
22Sandstone The Professional Development of Teachers: Creating A Space for Sharing Practice in Graduate
Programs
Table 3
Adult/College
By creating a shared practice space in graduate programs, literacy teachers identify their own knowledge
gaps, interact with other highly skilled educators, and learn new styles and techniques. Identify activities and
events that can not only engage but also rejuvenate instructional practices for graduate students in the field
of literacy.
Dr. Tasha Vice, Texas A&M University San Antonio
Sandstone TALE Yearbook Interest Session
Table 4 Adult/College
Meet with the editor of the TALE Yearbook to find out about how to submit your work and learn about the
publication process.
Elaine Hendrix, Editor
Breakout Sessions
Devonian I Inhale Reading! Exhale Writing!
Elementary
Inhaling reading and exhaling writing are the key to having elementary students compose authentic pieces of
writing. This session will demonstrate specific lessons that have been created to meet the needs of all
learners, with an emphasis on mentor texts as a means of anchoring a lesson. Embedded into the
prescriptive lessons is the Universal Design for Learners (UDL), with specific ideas to support and scaffold
for all learners.
Diane Flores, Ysleta ISD
Perla Subia, Ysleta ISD
Cecilia Serna, Ysleta ISD
Devonian II Reading Closely: Using Notice and Note with Informational Text
Secondary
Use the Notice & Note Signposts to teach students to approach informational reading armed with the tools to
understand complex text.
Diamond Level
Sponsor Donna Rother, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Travertine I No More Mummies - Unwrap the Mystery of Motivation through Student Engagement
Elementary, Preservice Teachers
Interactive learning activities centered around a central theme will be demonstrated along with the full "cycle"
of a read-aloud that includes an author's study.
Valarie Shreves, Ector County ISD
Kelsa Bertrand, Ector County ISD
23Spraberry Supporting Student Voices: Increasing Student Talk in the Secondary Classroom
Middle Grades, Secondary
The new TEKS call for students to read, write, listen, speak, and think every day. There is purposely more
focus on listening and speaking and what the state calls academic oracy. This session will focus on
integrating all four modes of communication, especially listening and speaking, which tend to go on the back
burner when compared to reading and writing.
Kristen Henry, KH Literacy Education, LLC
Wolfcamp II Grid Your Literary Experiences
Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
This presentation will be a hands-on learning experience for the attendees. There will be a teaching-
demonstration time which will allow the audience to participate using Flipgrid on their own devices. This
learning can be used to enhance their literacy classrooms.
Dr. Joan Bowman, Schreiner University
Dr. Vickey Giles, Houston Baptist University
Devonian III Back by Popular Demand: Book Talks for Middle Grades
Middle Grades
The presenters will share what's new in Middle Grade books through book talks. Learn how to incorporate
teacher and student book talks into your routine to motivate MG students to read, share reading, and keep
reading!
Jacqueline M. Ingram, Sam Houston State University
Gayle Butaud, Lamar University
Dr. Roberta Raymond, University of Houston-Clear Lake
Wolfcamp I The Work Before the Work: Uncovering and Addressing Biases Before Engaging With Culturally
Diverse Text
Preschool/Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Preservice Teachers
This session will encourage participants to examine their cultural framework and how this framework impacts
how they engage with culturally diverse text. Attendees will preview and deconstruct major themes within
culturally diverse text and how uncovered biases can affect their text delivery, interaction, and crucial
conversations with students. Presenters will share a model for addressing uncovered biases, an ongoing
self-study and reflection resource, and key strategies to use when approaching culturally diverse text.
Tamera Slaughter, Center for the Collaborative Classroom
Travertine II Teacher's Use of Literacy Centers to Promote Literacy Acquisition in First Grade Bilingual Students
in a South Texas School
Elementary, Preservice Teachers
This session will discuss how the use of literacy centers promote literacy acquisition in young children. It will
identify specific practices that support the literacy development in reading fluency, accuracy, and explicit and
implicit comprehension.
Fernando Hernandez, Texas A&M Kingsville
24Devonian IV First 5: A Tale of Population-Focused Early Childhood Education Initiatives
Preschool/Early Childhood
First 5 Permian Basin is a community-based, education program focused on promoting family engagement,
early childhood development, and literacy. Through evidence-based home visiting services families are
empowered to become their child's first teacher. Literacy is one of the founding principles within each of the
First 5 programs.
Dr. Diana Ruiz, University of Texas Permian Basin
Jordan Sosa, University of Texas Permian Basin
Vanessa Gonzalez, University of Texas Permian Basin
Arlo Chavira, University of Texas Permian Basin
Mercedes Ojeda, University of Texas Permian Basin
Travertine III What's In Your Portfolio? Using Portfolio Conferences In A Literacy Classroom to Promote
Meaningful Discoveries
Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Portfolio Conferences can be very useful in teacher education and can often help students make sense of
their learning over time. This session will explore the benefits and uses of Portfolio Conferences in an
undergraduate reading course and discuss how they can be used to promote growth, celebrate learning, and
showcase the best products completed during the semester.
Dr. Angela McNulty, University of Texas at Dallas
Breakout Session 3 3:15-4:15
Permian II Understanding and Overcoming Dyslexia in Light of Reading Science
Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Featured
Author Up to one in five students may suffer from dyslexia and struggle with reading and spelling, the most common
learning disability. Find out the symptoms of dyslexia, the importance of early identification, and how both
parents and teachers can support children with dyslexia.
Sponsored by
Zaner-Bloser A former classroom teacher and university professor, J. Richard Gentry, PhD
is an internationally acclaimed author, researcher, and educational consultant
known for his ground-breaking work in education on topics such as early
literacy; best-practices for reading, writing, and spelling; and dyslexia. In
addition to authoring 17 books, 2 textbook series, and numerous journal and
magazine articles, he blogs for the prestigious Psychology Today magazine
offering commentary on a range of topics including education and policy,
reading and the brain, baby/toddler reading, and educational standards.
Recent books and textbooks include Brain Words: How the Science of Reading
Informs Teaching (Stenhouse Publishers, 2019), Kid Writing in the 21st
Century (Hameray Publishing Group, 2017) and Spelling Connections (Zaner-
Bloser, 2020 Texas Edition), a popular evidence-based spelling series for
grades K-6. Dr. Gentry received a BA from the University of North Carolina-
Chapel Hill and a PhD from the University of Virginia. He currently resides in
Mobile, Alabama and can be reached at Richard@jrichardgentry.com
25Devonian I Argumentative: It’s Elementary! Making a Claim Based on Student-Led Discussion and Reading a
Variety of Sources in an Engaging Way for Elementary Students
Featured
Speaker Elementary
Teaching the new argumentative TEKS at the elementary level is not far from what we are already doing!
This session will show how to introduce argumentative through a variety of sources and student led
discourse. You will leave with a plan and a schedule for how to do this!
Cathie Combs has been a teacher for 15 years at the same elementary
school. She has taught all subjects, but for the last 10 years she has focused
on writing. She is currently teaching reading and writing together. She is
passionate about showing teachers the reciprocal nature of reading and writing.
She became an ABYDOS (New Jersey) Writing Trainer in 2015. In 2018, she
attended a Route 66 Writing Project at West Texas A&M University and is
currently serving as a National Writing Project Teacher Consultant. Her passion
is helping teachers see how reading, writing, and discussion are seamless and
should be taught to complement each other. She loves getting resources and
learning from teachers all over Texas.
Devonian IV Literacy Reboot: Technology Integration and the new English and Language Arts TEKS
Elementary
Participants will explore the new English and Language Arts TEKS and the digital applications which can be
used to support literacy instruction.
Chanelle Maynard, Sam Houston State University
Devonian II Rock Your Workshop
Middle Grades, Secondary, Adult/College, Preservice Teachers
Attendees will have the opportunity to try techniques on how to get students to choose their reading, share
their thinking about their reading and share their thoughts through writing. We will cover some fun new ways
to get the right books into the hands of students as well as a digital twist using maps to share their thinking
about their reading. Writing will be supported using screencasts, flip grid videos, and digital comments, as
well as the opportunity to problem solve your workshop classroom.
ileana Jennings, Amarillo ISD
Rachael Collins, Hereford ISD
Spraberry From Passages to Pleasure: Building a Campus Culture of Reading
Elementary
This presentation will give a brief history of our Title 1 school, demographics, environment and student
performance. We will explain how our teamwork and programs have evolved over the years to create a
vibrant culture of reading.
Irma Sanchez, Austin ISD
Heather Stephens, Austin ISD
Karen Ritch, Austin ISD
26You can also read
