Authors & Presenters

Kelly Johnson, PhD, is a faculty member in teacher education at San Diego State University. She is also a classroom teacher at Health Sciences High and Middle College in San Diego.

Susan B. Katz is a National Board Certified Teacher and award-winning, best-selling bilingual children’s author, known for her expertise in curriculum development for English learners. She’s also an internationally respected keynote speaker, professional development facilitator, and literacy coach.

Katie Stover Kelly, PhD, is an associate professor of education at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. A former elementary teacher and literacy coach, her research interests include teacher preparation and development in the areas of literacy instruction and assessment.

Analexis Kennedy, EdD, is a lecturer of reading at the University of Central Florida. She spent 15 years working with K–12 students, teachers, and administrators as a classroom teacher, literacy coach, district reading specialist, and professional development coordinator.

Gene M. Kerns, EdD, is a third-generation teacher with experience from elementary school to the university level, as well in K–12 administration. He has nearly 20 years of experience leading staff development.

Dr. Jeryl Kimbrough-Scott is a lifelong educator, who has worked to transform school culture and climate through a collaborative approach that involves staff and students. She supports schools in literacy, effective strategies for English learners, differentiation, and diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.

Diane Lapp, EdD, is a distinguished professor of education at San Diego State University and an English teacher and literacy coach at Health Sciences High and Middle College.

Doug Lillydahl is director of communication arts at Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Illinois. He guides literacy interventions and staff development, oversees ELA assessment, and supports curricular and instructional evolution.

Ellen Linnihan is a National Board Certified English and public speaking teacher in Wisconsin. Her passion is using video to improve teaching and learning to empower students of all levels.

Paula Maeker is an educator, consultant, and advocate for learner-centered education. She has more than twenty-three years’ experience as an elementary teacher, literacy specialist, instructional coach, Title 1 program coordinator, campus administrator, director of elementary literacy, and director of instructional design.