Who’s Who in the Partnership for Literacy:

Judith A. Langer, Ph.D.

Director, Center on English Learning & Achievement

JUDITH is Distinguished Professor at the University at Albany-SUNY, where she teaches in the Department of Educational Theory and Practice. An internationally recognized scholar and theory builder in literacy and language learning, she tests out effective instructional concepts in real classrooms working alongside real teachers. Her studies have had a strong impact on teachers' practices, student achievement on state and national standards and assessments, and on instructional materials. Langer has published ten books and won numerous prestigious awards in both the U.S. and abroad.

Eija Rougle, Ph.D.

Lead Facilitator

EIJA has been coaching teachers in the Partnership for Literacy since its inception. She received her Ph.D. in Language in Education from the University at Albany, working closely with Langer and other developers of the Partnership. Eija is a frequent speaker at international, national, and regional conferences focused on language and literacy and is multi-lingual. She and coauthor Mary Adler have captured lessons from the Partnership in the book Building Literacy Through Classroom Discussion.

Johanna Shogan

Facilitator

A long-time teacher of English Language Arts in middle and high schools, JOHANNA first joined the Partnership as a teacher being coached. Now she coaches others, drawing on her rich background and wide ranging knowledge of effective language instruction. She has been recognized in Who's Who among America's Teachers and is a former officer in the New York State English Council. She is a contributing writer for the book The Storytelling Classroom.

Kathleen Nickson

Facilitator

KATHY taught high school English for 27 years, retiring in 2004 and joining the Partnership for Literacy as a facilitator and literacy coach. In her work with teachers she brings a genuine understanding of their challenges as well as knowledge of how much more students can achieve when supported through substantive discussion and critical thinking skills. Kathy has led workshops for the New York State Education Department and the School of Education and is also helping develop a Partnership training guide.

Karen Polsinelli

Facilitator

KAREN taught social studies at the upper elementary and middle levels for more than 30 years. She now coaches other teachers in incorporating critical reading, thinking, and writing skills in daily instruction, with a focus on a problem-solving approach. She is also an experienced presenter, writer, and professional developer in a variety of research-based strategies for improving student learning.