Our Belief
BBB’s Professional Development Services are founded on evidence-based best practices in literacy and numeracy instruction, aligned with the Science of Reading and current research in mathematics education. Our team brings a strong foundation in both academic research and the practical implementation of effective instructional strategies in diverse classroom settings.
Our experienced staff have served in districts of varying sizes and demographics across the country, equipping them with a broad understanding of educational contexts. We are committed to empowering educators not only to effectively utilize their existing programs and resources, but also to translate their knowledge of literacy into high-impact instructional practices. Our focus remains centered on fostering student engagement and driving academic achievement.
Empowering District/School Leadership
Along with a system of beliefs, a robust instructional framework is essential to the foundation of learning. These frameworks create a structured approach to teaching and learning, ensuring consistency across classrooms, aligning curriculum with assessment, and guiding teachers in delivering effective instruction. These structures of support ultimately lead to better student outcomes by providing a common language and set of expectations for all educators within a school or district; this helps to reduce disparities in learning and support professional development for teachers. We approach our work as a partnership with districts and leverage experts in the field to help inform and guide the work. We believe the instructional shifts/moves and standards should be informing and guiding our work.
Most importantly, a model of instruction aligned to the direction and focus of the district is key for student achievement. The framework then becomes the road map to identify needed professional development and resources to best support instruction.
Empowering Instructional Coaches/Specialists
Our consultant team leverages coaching strategies to guide and foster growth around specific practices as indicated on the district framework and district goals. Additionally, building strong relationships early in the coaching partnership establishes a positive foundation for coaches to hone their practice and grow in their skills.
Coaches are provided support both one-to-one or in coach cohort trainings thru a lesson study analysis to model and coach best practices for instruction based on data and student engagement. Professional book studies with coaches are utilized to expand research-based best practices.
Empowering Classroom Teachers
Essential to any framework is the important work of teachers in the classroom. Encouraging teachers to not only implement a framework but also know how to leverage best practices and resources to fortify the framework is critical.
Our consultants assist teachers in examining and revising both whole group and differentiated small group instruction to meet the needs of all students through lesson study analysis and feedback. Teachers learn to interpret data and standards to engage students in effective classroom instruction. This is supported through leveraging The Gradual Release of Responsibility model and scaffolding learning.
Ways BBB Supports Professional Learning
District Level
We believe building out a strong framework with district instructional leadership specifically in the areas of literacy and mathematics. We approach our work as a partnership. We leverage the experts in the field to help inform and guide our work. We believe the instructional shifts/moves and standards should be informing and guiding our work.
Most importantly we want to keep in mind the student work and what that should look like to help inform the direction and focus of the district framework. The framework then becomes the guide to determine what professional development and resources are needed to best support instruction. In other words, it is about the teaching versus the materials.
- Support district evaluation efforts of current instructional framework(s) and models of instruction
- Lead district to develop instructional frameworks
- Guide in the development of a district-specific Instructional Belief System
Coaches Level
At BBB, we believe that building capacity begins with strengthening the daily work of instructional coaches. Our approach is rooted in aligning coaching practices with the district’s instructional priorities, ensuring coherence with existing frameworks and strategic goals. By grounding coaches in the district’s instructional framework(s) and extending their knowledge through research-based practices, we help bridge the gap between district vision and classroom implementation.
Our goal is to support coaches as key drivers of instructional improvement. We provide targeted support through one-on-one coaching, modeling, professional learning modules, and practical strategies focused on research-based leverage points. Coaches are equipped to interpret data effectively, foster student engagement, and guide teachers in implementing high-impact instructional strategies.
Our capacity-building services include:
- Designing and facilitating customized coaching modules and training
- Supporting the rollout of instructional frameworks in collaboration with district leaders
- Developing facilitation tools to enhance coaches’ leadership and training capabilities
- Conducting book studies and reviews of instructional best practices
By investing in instructional coaches, we help ensure that professional development is not only aligned with district goals but also focused on improving student-centered outcomes in every classroom.
Classroom Level
A critical component of any instructional framework is the work teachers do daily in the classroom. Supporting educators in not only implementing the framework but also in leveraging high-quality resources to align with it is essential to ensuring its success.
BBB engages teachers in a comprehensive lesson study and design process. This includes collaborative planning, instructional delivery, structured reflection, and feedback cycles—all with a focus on effectively addressing individual student needs. We guide teachers in interpreting data to inform instruction, organizing flexible and dynamic student groups, aligning their practice with academic standards and instructional shifts, and shifting their instructional approach from lecture-based delivery to a more facilitative and student-centered role.
Our work is grounded in the Gradual Release of Responsibility model, promoting teacher reflection and responsiveness to student learning. Most importantly, we help educators focus on student work and outcomes as the primary driver of instructional decisions.
Our support includes:
- Monitoring implementation and providing targeted training
- Conducting focus walks with actionable feedback
- Supporting the consistent application of the lesson framework
- Partnering with instructional coaches to model effective practices
Professional Learning Consultants
Aimee Buckner Haisten has worked in elementary education for thirty years and in the state of Georgia since 1997. She spent 18 years in the classroom, teaching elementary through middle school. She has worked as a consultant for over 20 years, having written several books and produced lesson videos. Aimee has presented at international, national, and local level literacy conferences. Aimee currently serves as a literacy specialist and consultant both locally and across the United States.
Allison Lynn is a dedicated educator committed to efficiency, effectiveness, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. She earned her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Educational Specialist degrees in Elementary Education from Auburn University. With experience teaching first, second, fourth, and fifth grades, she brings a strong instructional background to diverse classroom settings. As a former Mathematics Coach, she has supported teachers in implementing best practices for math instruction. Additionally, her work as an adjunct professor at Auburn University at Montgomery has contributed to the development of future educators.
Amanda Cannada received her Instructional Leadership certification from the University of West Georgia. She also earned an advanced degree in Elementary Literacy and Mathematics from Walden University and a Georgia Professional Standards Coaching Endorsement. During her employment with Gwinnett County Public Schools, Amanda held various positions including 2nd grade teacher, 3rd grade teacher, K-5 math intervention teacher, K-5 math instructional coach, and assistant principal. She currently serves as an Elementary Assistant Principal for the School District of Lee County, Florida. Amanda is committed to sharing her passion for mathematics and learning through collaboration with teachers, schools and district leaders . She spends her free time with her family at the beach and traveling.
Amarius Reed has been in elementary education for 22 years. She has been a teacher, instructional coach, district math support specialist, and elementary math coordinator. An advocate for high quality math experiences and building capacity with teachers.
Amy earned her BA in Education at Samford University, her Masters in Reading & Literacy at Walden University, and her Specialist degree in Teacher Leadership at Piedmont University. During her career, Amy has worked as a classroom teacher, intervention teacher, local school and district level instructional coach, elementary assistant principal, K-12 literacy director, and education consultant. During her time as a district level instructional coach, Amy co-led an instructional coaching endorsement program. Through this work, Amy facilitated job-embedded professional learning, and mentored teachers in working towards a certification in instructional coaching. Amy also spent time as a district instructional coach mentoring and supervising new teachers as they worked towards teacher certification. Currently, Amy supports teachers, leaders, and instructional coaches as a consultant.
- Educator for 30+ years in Georgia.
- Certifications include: Instructional Leadership (Masters and EdS), Secondary English, and Gifted
- Taught HS English for 14 years before launching into administration (11th grade AP Language; 11th Advanced Lit; 10th grade Gifted; 12th grade College Prep).
- Elementary AP and then Principal in Coweta County, Georgia.
- Chosen as a mentor Principal in Coweta County in which I helped other leaders to 1)effectively lead and monitor PLC’s at the school level; 2)vertically team within the school and within feeder pattern, and 3) how to impact instruction through a positive climate and culture.
- Led my school, Brooks Elementary, to the top 7% in Georgia; Blue Ribbon status awarded in 2017-18.
- Retired and moved home to Alabama.
- Served in the Elmore County, Alabama Central Office as Director of Professional Development & Assessment, Director of Accountability, and then served as Elementary Curriculum Director.
- Led & guided Elmore County’s Cognia Accreditation process and appointed as the Cognia Accreditation point of contact by the Superintendent.
- Led, developed, and monitored Elmore County’s Strategic Plan and its Annual Continuous Improvement Plan.
- Modeled and led all K – 12 schools’ ACIP planning with root cause analysis, SMART goals, and impactful critical initiatives; this also included professional learning on how to use data to achieve strategic results within schools and within the county
- Presented with the Cognia System of Distinction award for professional and curriculum development processes which were strategically interpolated within the county.
- Led and developed Elmore County’s Leadership Academy for two years, as well as developed leader PLU’s in the following areas: Hattie’s meta-analysis and high impact strategies; Instructional Leadership using Systems Thinking; Upstream Thinking (Dan Heath), which also included professional development on Socratic questioning and the importance of climate/culture; Teacher Clarity and Collective Efficacy; Teaching with Poverty in Mind (Eric Jensen); Lexile Professional Development for all media specialists, instructional coaches, and principals K-12; Using Socratic questioning and seminars within PLC’s
Amy Rodriguez holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State University, along with an ESOL endorsement and an Instructional Coaching endorsement. With 20 years of experience in education, she began her teaching career in Gwinnett County Schools, where she taught 1st and 2nd grade. Amy’s passion lies in teaching students how to read, and she takes great pride in helping them succeed. She is dedicated to reaching every student at their level and believes that building strong relationships is key to fostering a positive learning environment.
Currently, Amy serves as the Behavior Coach and 504 Coordinator at The Museum School of Avondale Estates, where she supports K-8 students with social-emotional needs and MTSS interventions. In this role, she also coaches teachers in creating a positive learning environment and effective classroom management strategies. Providing professional learning opportunities for teachers is one of Amy’s greatest passions.
On a personal note, Amy has been married to her husband, Chris, for 20 years, and they have two boys, ages 18 and 15. She enjoys watching them play soccer, baseball, and basketball, and spending quality time with family and friends. In her free time, Amy enjoys crafting, playing pickleball, and traveling.
Angie Bennett has many years of public school experience teaching struggling readers and writers in grades K- 8. She attended Illinois Wesleyan University for her undergraduate degree, Mercer University for her Master’s Degree and University of Georgia for her Specialist Degree. She also received her Reading Recovery Teacher Leader certification from Georgia State University where she served as a graduate instructor training Reading Recovery teachers. Angie also has her coaching endorsement and is certified in Special Education and ESOL.
- 30 yrs elementary educational experience
- 4 yrs Assistant Principal
- 6 yrs Math Coach
- 5 yrs Griffin RESA endorsement instructor
- 20 yrs K-3 classroom instruction
- MTSS Facilitator
- EIP Teacher
- Endorsements in reading, math, and culturally proficient coaching
- 3 time Teacher of the Year recipient
Beth Balch is a district Math Specialist for the Hartselle City School System in Alabama. Her diverse professional background includes Marketing/Graphic Design, Elementary Education, as well as Instructional Design, and Technology. Beth is an ISTE Certified Educator and has supported teachers in developing pedagogical practices that support the effective integration of technology in K-12 classrooms. Her passion is giving students opportunities to experience joy in mathematics learning using integrated approaches to instructional design.
My name is Carrie Plank. I am currently serving as a math specialist mentoring math coaches and consulting in several school districts in North Alabama. I served as a former K-5 teacher in various grade levels for 21 years. I became a math specialist in 2010 and worked with the Alabama Math Science Technology Initiative at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. As a math specialist, I coached teachers and mentored math coaches in the use of effective and engaging mathematics instruction. Since my retirement in 2021, I have focused my work on mentoring school based and district level math coaches in North Alabama.
Cheryl Lockhart is an accomplished educator with 25 years of experience in elementary education. Passionate about literacy, she dedicated nine years as a reading specialist, helping young learners develop a love for reading. Cheryl also served as an adjunct instructor at the University of North Alabama for two years, where she shared her expertise with future teachers. Her commitment to fostering a love for literacy extends beyond the classroom, as she enjoys working with adults in the teaching field to enhance their skills and impact.
Christy King is a dedicated educator who has worked with students and teachers in the U.S. and across Latin America, Africa, and Micronesia. With a master’s degree in international training and education and an Educational Specialist degree in Instructional Technology, Christine specializes in creating inclusive, student-centered learning environments. Now teaching English Language Learners and Spanish to K-8 students, she integrates proven second language acquisition strategies and engaging comprehensible input into her classroom. Passionate about education, she is committed to supporting students, families, and fellow educators in navigating today’s educational challenges.
Daphne Miles received her undergraduate degree from Delaware State University. She received her advanced educational degrees from the University of the City of New York and Walden University. She also earned her Leadership Certification from The University of West Georgia and has a Coach Endorsement certified through the Professional Standards Commission of Georgia (GaPSC). Daphne has served as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and assistant principal as an employee with Gwinnett County Public Schools. Daphne is an advocate for strong literacy skills and is a dedicated educator who works to support teachers in the areas of reading and writing. Daphne understands that the path to success for all students begins with a strong foundation in early literacy skills. She continues to grow and strives to learn the most effective research-based instructional strategies to support teaching and learning in the classroom. Daphne is the proud mom of two children, Elijah and Drew and is married to her college sweetheart, Andrew. She serves as a volunteer for the Volunteer Gwinnett program and is a life-long member Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She has a beloved dog named Rocco and enjoys traveling and playing pickle ball.
Denise Porch has a diverse background in education, teaching mathematics at the secondary level, serving as an elementary administrator, and coaching math at the primary and elementary levels. A National Board Certified and ISTE Certified Educator, Denise has presented at mathematics conferences and is an active member of professional organizations, including the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, the National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics, and the Alabama Council of Teachers of Mathematics, where she also serves as a board member.
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Dionne Howard, Ed.S. has been involved in teaching and learning since age 8 when she started a neighborhood summer school for her peers. Dionne has enjoyed a 30-year career as a classroom teacher, adjunct professor, instructional coach, and staff developer. When she isn’t reading or teaching, she enjoys playing the piano and spending time with her family.
Hannah Zey has been and educator for 15 years, serving as a teacher, coach, and school and district level curriculum support specialist. She holds an Educational Specialist degree in Leadership, Masters in Curriculum and Instruction, and a Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education.
As a coach, literacy specialist and literacy consultant, Hannah has specialized in providing leaders and teachers with professional development and coaching around standards-based instruction, balanced literacy, the workshop model, and balanced assessment practices.
Heather Collins has worked in education for the last 34 years and holds a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education. During that time, her experience includes teaching math in grades 1-6, serving as a department wide math mentor for new teachers, attending math trainings and presenting turn-around training to her fellow math classroom teachers, working as a math interventionist, and working as a math coach supporting all primary and elementary grades. Heather has also had the opportunity to present at state math conferences and is an active member of professional education organizations, including National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and Alabama Council of Mathematics.
Heather Kelley worked as a classroom teacher for 17 years. She earned her specialist degree from the University of Georgia in K-8 Mathematics. Heather currently serves as a Math Professional Learning Specialist where she coaches teachers in math, designs curriculum, writes assessments, and delivers professional development to the teachers of Henry County Schools in Georgia. She worked as a member of the Georgia Department of Education 5th Grade Standards Revision Team and the 5th Grade Frameworks Revision Team. Heather has presented professional development at Georgia MathCon and has facilitated summer learning academies for the Georgia Council of Teachers of Mathematics (GCTM).
Dr. Jason Wright is a seasoned educator, college professor, and field supervisor with over 25 years of experience spanning elementary through post-secondary education. Specializing in foundational math strategies and all facets of curriculum and instruction, he is dedicated to preparing future teachers for success in the classroom. Dr. Wright is deeply passionate about mentoring disadvantaged youth and guiding young men in achieving their long-term personal and professional goals. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to equity in education and the transformative power of mentorship.
Jennifer Dunn has been a consultant for BBB Educational Enterprises since 2023. She holds a master’s degree in education and enjoys working with both teachers and students. She resides in Birmingham, Alabama with her husband and three children.
Jodie Jacobs has 25 years of experience in public education, serving in various roles including reading teacher, social studies teacher, guidance counselor, school improvement coach, and K 12 curriculum coordinator. After retiring, she currently works as a sales and professional development consultant for BBB.
Karen Brannon is a dedicated education professional with a passion for fostering learning and growth in students and educators. With extensive experience as a classroom educator and beyond, she is committed to supporting teachers in developing engaging and inclusive environments where all learners can thrive. She holds a reading endorsement and is ESOL-endorsed, enabling her to support diverse learners effectively. Additionally, she is Gifted certified.
Beyond these qualifications, Karen has had extensive experience in many of the sought-after fields in education. Her commitment to excellence is evident in her ability to make complex concepts accessible and enjoyable for all. With heartfelt dedication to educating the next generation, Karen enjoys supporting educators with relevant literacy practices.
Dr. Ross started her career in education teaching the primary grades, including Kindergarten, 1st grade, and 2nd grade. Continuing at her Alma Mater, Georgia Southern University, she added a M.Ed. in School Counseling and Instructional Technology. She served as an elementary and middle school counselor, while earning an Ed.S. and Ed.D. in School Leadership and Administration. She then served as assistant principal and principal for the next 10 years. Her final years before retirement were spent supporting special needs students as a district director of special education and student services. Upon retirement, Dr. Ross has continued to work in the field of special services providing support to students with emotional and behavior disorders. She joined the BBB team in 2024 to continue to share my love of education.
Ms. Kayla Holmes brings 32 years of educational experience, having served in various roles, including classroom teacher, literacy coach, instructional lead teacher and Assistant Principal. She has actively participated in educational advisory boards and shared her expertise on various topics at both local and state levels. Ms. Holmes earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, along with a Master’s Degree in Reading and an Education Specialist Degree in Early Childhood Education from Georgia Southwestern State University. Her extensive background in literacy has enabled her to create authentic disciplinary literacy experiences for educators.
Ms. Laura Hittson, a native Mobilian, earned a B.S. degree in Education from Spring Hill College and her Master’s in Educational Administration from the University of South Carolina. Ms. Hittson has over thirty-six years of experience as an educator. She has been a teacher, a Project Coordinator for a multi-million-dollar National Science Foundation educational grant, a math curriculum and assessment developer in the Curriculum Division of the Mobile County Public School System, a math coach, and a principal. She retired from the Mobile County Public School System in June of 2022 after a 25-year career with them.
After retirement, Ms. Hittson worked as a math and reading intervention teacher and support/mentor teacher for the University of West Alabama’s Project Reach participants at Gilliard Elementary in Mobile. She currently travels across Alabama as a math consultant with BBB Educational Enterprises. Ms. Hittson continues to do what she loves, working with educators to hone their instructional skills and positively impact student achievement.
LeShell has been a mathematics educator for 29 years, including 18 years as a classroom teacher, where she taught a wide range of courses from 7th grade mathematics through Calculus. While in the classroom, LeShell received Teacher of the Year in 2002 and 2011. For the past decade, she served as a secondary mathematics specialist with the Alabama Math, Science, Technology Initiative (AMSTI), where she developed and delivered professional learning, provided coaching for classroom teachers, collaborated with administrators, and supported K-5 math coaches. Currently, LeShell works as a mathematics education consultant with BBB Educational Enterprises, where she focuses on delivering professional learning and support for math educators. LeShell delivers professional learning sessions at national, regional, and state educational conferences. She is also the co-founder of the Alabama NCSM Affiliate (AMLA) and an ISTE-certified educator. In her personal life, LeShell enjoys running her own travel agency, playing pickleball, participating in outdoor activities, and spending quality time with family.
Lisa Lee has served students, teachers and parents for over 30 years in Georgis as a teacher, math specialist, math coach, assessment specialist, and K-12 District Mathematics Instructional coach for Gwinnett County Public Schools. Currently, Lisa is supporting teacher leaders and instructional coaches as an educational consultant for BBB Educational Enterprises, Inc.
I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Wilkes University. I went on to pursue and complete my master’s degree in Elementary Education from University of West Georgia and my finally my Education Specialist Degree from Lincoln Memorial University in Curriculum and Instruction. I also received my National Board Certification in Middle Grades.
During my 36 years as a public educator, I served in a variety of capacities. I spent 19 years in the classroom in a variety of grade levels: first, third, fourth and fifth grade. I served as a Literacy Coach for one year and my last 15 years I served as an elementary administrator, 8 years as an assistant principal and 7 years as a building principal. I also worked as an Adjunct Professor at Mercer University for five years, instructing undergraduate students pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education.
I have a passion for teaching and learning. I continue to stay up to date with research and enjoy learning alongside teachers and administrators. I consider myself a lifelong learner, always striving to perfect my craft and staying true to my “why” which is, putting students first, providing a literature rich environment for all students to reach their fullest potential, making data informed decisions to meet the diverse needs of all learners (adults and students).
Lori LeVan is an educator with more than 35 years of elementary teaching and coaching experience. Lori’s expertise is in supporting teachers as they plan whole-group and small-group instruction to meet the needs of students. In her academic coaching role at Title 1 schools, Lori supported teachers with implementing curriculum and administering and analyzing assessments to pinpoint students’ strengths and needs. Lori has extensive experience coaching teachers and providing professional development at the school and district levels. She is currently a literacy consultant and supports teachers throughout Georgia with curriculum implementation. She is also an instructor for Metro RESA’s job-embedded teacher preparation program (GaTAPP). Lori is passionate about supporting teachers.
With 25 years of experience as an elementary teacher, I have a deep passion for phonics and reading education. Now, as an educational consultant, I help educators implement effective reading strategies to support student success. My goal is to empower teachers with the tools and knowledge they need to foster strong reading skills. I believe every child deserves the opportunity to become a confident and capable reader.
Mary Scott brings years of educational experience to her work. She holds a degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education and has served as a primary teacher in both public and independent schools. Mary specialized as a Reading Recovery teacher and dedicated over 25 years to Lake Highland Preparatory School in Orlando, first as a primary teacher and then as a Literacy and Math Coach. She later transitioned to a Technology Instructional Specialist role, where she supported teachers and students in digital learning.
Now residing in Jensen Beach, Florida, Mary enjoys spending her free time playing pickleball, running, practicing yoga, and reading.
Matt Johnson holds a doctorate in educational leadership and currently works for The University of West Alabama as an Assistant Professor of Education. Part of his duties at UWA also include serving as Chief Academic Officer of University Charter School, a public PK-12 charter school that operates on the UWA campus. Matt’s mission with these two roles is to blend theory and practice to create a model to rethink education and improve academic outcomes for Alabama’s students. Matt’s career in education began as a high school English teacher in Northwest Georgia before moving into school administration and relocating to Alabama. Matt has done extensive work with the Georgia Department of Education and the Alabama State Department of Education around standards, assessment, and professional learning. Matt’s passion in rethinking education is to ensure students can learn the knowledge and skills needed to complete in a rigorous global economy. Matt is married to a fellow educator and together they have four young children. When he is not working, Matt enjoys fishing, reading, supporting his favorite professional sports teams, and being dad.
My passion lies in empowering teachers and students to unlock their full potential. With a proven track record in teaching and coaching for over 30 years, I believe creating tailored projects that enhance teaching effectiveness and inspire a love for learning are crucial. Supporting teachers by blending curriculum and evidence-based strategies with a supportive mindset, we will foster an environment where both educators and learners can thrive. I believe that education is a partnership, and building trust is key. Together, we can transform teaching practices, elevate student experiences, and impact your school’s learning community.
Sahara Bryant holds a Masters in Elementary Education from Wilmington University and a Bachelors in Human Service, Education, and Public Policy from the University of Delaware. Starting her career in an urban public charter school, she taught second and third grade before moving to Georgia in 2015. Upon her arrival, she found a home with Gwinnett County Public Schools. Where she spent six years teaching 4th-grade students. Sahara served as grade chair, teacher mentor, coach, and math content lead for several years before deciding to take action and pursue a certification in Mathematics. Expanding her teacher credentials to Middle School, Sahara was able to renew her love for math by teaching youth learners. Not only is she an educator, but a wife, a boy mom, a dog lover, an avid reader, and always on the hunt for good food.
Sarah Anne Hamner lives in Northeast Georgia. A lifelong reader and writer, Sarah Anne came to education through a love of workshop model teaching in her college writing classes. She studied at Truett McConnell College, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in English, and at Gardner-Webb University, receiving a Master of Arts in English Literature. She taught 8th grade English for many years before leaving the classroom to be home with her daughter, Hosanna. Her dedication to literacy is apparent in her love of reading and writing education, and through her devotion to reading and writing as hobbies in her spare time.
Shannon Brandt served as a teacher and instructional coach for over 30 years in the Auburn City School System. She earned both her undergraduate (BS) and graduate (MA, PhD) degrees in Elementary Education from Auburn University. As an elementary generalist, she enjoys teaching all of the core subjects and has presented at national conferences on both literacy and math topics. She won the Milken Educator Award in 2006. Currently she is a math consultant for BBB Educational Enterprises.
A native Floridian, Shannon was born with a passion for education. She was the one who played school and dreamed of becoming a teacher. After leaving the classroom, Shannon went on as an Intervention Coordinator at the Florida Center for Reading Research, and a Reading Specialist with Just Read, Florida! at the Florida Department of Education. Shannon believes all students have the capacity for language and literacy acquisition. She is especially passionate about early literacy, brain development, determining/filling reading gaps, and reaching marginalized students. Shannon has two grown children and loves to travel.
Sharonda earned a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Valdosta State University. She has 29 years of experience as an educator and has served as an elementary school principal for most of her career. As principal, she also served as the school’s instructional leader. Sharonda believes in supporting teachers and staff. Currently, she serves at the district level as a Director of Curriculum and Instruction for Elementary Education. Sharonda is a collaborative leader who believes in impacting student learning by providing teachers with engaging and meaningful professional learning experiences.
Susan is a former classroom teacher, reading teacher, instructional coach and administrator. Her career spans decades and includes elementary and middle school experience. Currently retired, she still teaches small intervention groups with children. In her spare time, as a doting mother and grandmother, she enjoys as much time as possible with her family. She enjoys music, walking, and reading.
Tammy Jones received her undergraduate degree from Auburn University in Early Childhood Education. She also received a Master of Education degree from Auburn. Tammy taught for 17 years and spent 8 years as an instructional coach for Auburn City Schools. She has spent the past 8 years as an education consultant. Tammy has a passion for working with teachers to ensure that students are given the best opportunity to maximize their potential. She believes that quality instruction is the key that unlocks that potential. Tammy has two daughters, Anna and Abby. She resides in Auburn with her husband, Tim and dog, Jake.
Tanya Welchel is a passionate educator with 31 years of experience, dedicated to fostering literacy and supporting teachers. Her career spans PreK through fifth grade, including roles as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal. She holds National Board Certification, demonstrating her commitment to excellence in education. As Director of Leadership and Instructional Support, Tanya focused on developing and implementing impactful professional learning for teachers. Her passion lies in empowering both students in reading and writing and teachers.
With over 15 years of experience in education, Tonya has dedicated her career to fostering student success as both a teacher and school administrator. Her background spans across special education and general education, with a strong focus on collaborative planning and instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners. Passionate about creating inclusive and supportive learning environments, Tonya works to inspire both students and staff to be life long learners.
Outside of work, she enjoys running, hiking, and spending quality time with her family and friends.
Tracey Barringer is a mastered certified teacher in early childhood education. She taught K-3rd grades for 26 years in Alabama in Hoover City Schools and Mountain Brook City Schools. She and her husband, Scott have been married 22 years and have 3 boys; Laurence (20), Luke (18) and Weston (17). She enjoys traveling, exercising and spending time with family and friends.
Ulanda Davis brings 19 years of rich experience in education, having served as a classroom teacher, math interventionist, math and science academic coach, RtI coach, and school improvement coordinator for elementary mathematics. Her dedication and expertise have earned her a place on the Georgia Council of Mathematics Advisory. Dr. Davis is passionate about teaching, learning, and fostering continuous growth among students and teachers. She thrives on creating impactful learning experiences and empowering educators to excel in their roles. Her commitment to education is evident in her continuous efforts to innovate and inspire.
With over 30 years of experience in teaching and coaching, I am a passionate advocate for literacy education for all students. My proven track record of supporting students in growing as readers and writers has made me a trusted consultant, known for my responsive approach in meeting the unique needs of both students and teachers. Collaborating closely with administrators and educators, I work to build capacity in utilizing curriculum resources and best practices, driving meaningful growth in reading and writing skills. At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to fostering strong relationships and working alongside school communities to unlock the full potential of every learner.