Larry Ainsworth is Executive Director of Professional Development at The Leadership and Learning Center in Englewood, Colo. He travels nationally and internationally to assist school systems in implementing best practices related to standards, assessment, and accountability across all grades and content areas.
Dr. John Almarode is a Professional Development Associate with The Leadership and Learning Center. He has worked with all age groups in education, from pre‑kindergarteners to graduate students.
Lisa Almeida is the National Director of Professional Learning for The Leadership and Learning Center.
Tracy Swinton Bailey is the Founder and Executive Director of Freedom Readers, Inc., a nonprofit organization that exists to provide academic enrichment to families in low wealth areas. Freedom Readers Afterschool Literacy Program is currently working with young scholars in the Darden Terrace and Huckabee Heights communities of Conway. A third site was established at the Boys and Girls Club of Myrtle Beach in the fall of 2011.
Dr. Bonnie Bell is an Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services with the Claremont Unified School District in Claremont, California. Dr. Bell’s professional experience in four school districts has spanned 26 years. She has served as a classroom teacher, district mentor, categorical coordinator, county consultant, and site administrator.
Laura’s mission is to make reading and writing an open book for every child. Laura’s passion conveys the goal of our work as teachers: to ensure that each student can and will fuel his or her literacy with intention, confidence, and competence. An open book also means that students can deepen their connections to self and others.
Laura is a lifelong educator and truly believes that all students, teachers and leaders can succeed. She embraces results, holds high expectations, and engages educators to build on their strengths.
Melissa Biggerstaff is a Professional Development Associate for The Leadership and Learning Center.
Bonnie Bishop is a Professional Development Associate for The Leadership and Learning Center. Over the past several years, she has presented to teachers on regional as well as national levels. She is recognized for her expertise in balanced literacy, assessment, and bridging the academic achievement gap for English learners.