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Professional Development Matters Debra Renner Smith is a full time Reading and Writing Consultant. She is a published author.
“A Teacher’s Teacher” Deb encourages teachers to make wise instructional decisions while giving them the tools and confidence to do so. Deb reads professional literature extensively. She is immersed in current reading and writing practices. She brings the research into classroom practice and makes the connections necessary to pass high stakes tests.
"The Four-Blocks framework was developed by teachers who believe that to be successful in teaching all children to read and write, we have to do it all! Doing it all means incorporating daily the different approaches to beginning reading. The Four Blocks --- Guided Reading, Self-Selected Reading, Writing, and Working with Words--- represent four different approaches to teaching children to read. Daily instruction in all Four Blocks provides numerous and varied opportunities for all children to learn to read and write. Doing all four blocks acknowledges that children do not all learn in the same way and provides substantial instruction to support whatever learning personality a child has. The other big difference between children --- their different literacy levels --- is approached by using a variety of formats to make each block as multilevel as possible, providing additional support for children who struggle and additional challenges for children who catch on quickly." (The Teacher's Guide to Four-Blocks). About Me A Literacy Staff Developer since 1999 Author Writing & Reading Instructor Designer of customized professional development based on the needs of a school district Endorsed National Trainer for the Four Blocks Literacy model Excels in modeling best practices and coaching teachers, working with teachers in the classroom 12 years of classroom experience in Michigan Presenter at several conferences including International Reading Association (IRA) Conferences Presenter at Michigan Reading Association Conferences (MRA) Presenter at IRA Regional Conferences Please contact me at 269.637.7715 or at debfourblocks@comcast.net for setting up training opportunities for your district.
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All children can read. All children can write. All teachers can teach reading and writing well. Deb believes in professional development that includes: training, modeling, coaching, and collaborative teaming. Building a deep understanding of literacy occurs when teachers and principal and literacy trainer, Deb Renner Smith, have on-going training developed specifically for individual schools and school districts. Deb’s presentations include real classroom footage, interactive Power Points, and cooperative learning techniques to engage adult learners. Deb helps teachers connect the MEAP with real reading and writing opportunities.