Donalyn Miller is a dedicated teacher who says she has yet to meet a child she could not turn into a reader. Using the authentic and practical advice in her books, teachers of all grade levels will be inspired to turn their classrooms into learning environments that treasure and promote independent reading, and their students into lifelong lovers of books. As it did for Ms. Miller's students, this focus on reading freedom will significantly improve the literacy skills and standardized test scores for students everywhere.

This course is designed with the flexibility for teachers to select one (15hrs.), two (30 hrs.), or three (45 hrs.) graduate credits (units), as well as the freedom to choose from a menu of assignments the work that will be most beneficial for their specific needs and interests.  Teachers will have the opportunity to reflect on their own reading lives as well as develop student interest inventories and evaluations, explore ideas for readers' notebooks, conference notes, book reviews and response letters. Even if you are required to follow a district or school mandated program, this course will provide you with ideas to "steal moments for independent reading" in school every day. Most importantly, this course validates the time teachers need to read and evaluate all types of books for children and young adults so they can insightfully develop and enhance their classroom libraries.

Instructor: kmurphy@dominicancaonline.com