Collaborative Conferences (DVD)

Linda Dorn is a professor of reading education at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where she is the director of the UALR Center for Literacy. She teaches graduate classes in literacy theory, research, classroom practice, and literacy leadership. She has twenty seven years of experience in education, including teaching at the elementary, intermediate, and college levels. Linda is the primary developer and lead trainer of the Partnerships in Comprehensive Literacy Model, a nationally recognized model that uses literacy coaches as agents of change. She has worked with many school districts across the United States and she has collaborated with several state departments on comprehensive literacy initiatives. She believes that school-embedded professional development is critical for supporting teachers in new learning. "The schools described in all our books use this approach for improving classroom instruction and student achievement. Our teachers use book clubs, literacy team meetings, and professional study groups." When writing a book, Linda's goal is to mesh theory and practice into a readable text. "I enjoy writing with my coauthor, Carla Soffos, who is also my friend and teaching colleague. We have developed a great working relationship." Linda is a native of Tennessee and received her Ph.D. in reading from Texas Women's University. She is married with three children, two stepdaughters, and five grandchildren. Carla is a literacy specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education. She has twenty-one years of experience in education, including teaching in the primary grades and Literacy Coaching. Carla is completing degree requirements for an Educational Specialist in Reading, with a research focus on intervention programs in comprehensive literacy schools. Carla and Linda Dorn have collaborated on several Stenhouse publications, including the books Shaping Literate Minds and Scaffolding Young Writers, and three video series: Results That Last, Developing Independent Learners, and Organizing for Literacy.