This session, intended for classroom teachers, provides an introduction to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts with a focus on Grades K-5. Participants will develop an understanding of the intent and spirit of the documents and how these elements drive the organization of content and salient design features. Participants engage in interactive activities throughout the session that will lead to a basic working knowledge of the Standards for the purpose of planning instructional activities and assessments.

Deirdre Spollen-Laraia is a former K-12 ELA, ESL and Gifted and Talented supervisor who is currently serving as principal of the Hawthorne Elementary School in Teaneck, NJ. She recently received an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the College of St. Elizabeth. Her dissertation topic was: Literacy Coaching: Is it a Link to Transforming Teacher Collaboration, School Culture and Student Achievement? Deirdre is an experienced staff developer with expertise in ELA curriculum development, instruction and assessment.