Tonya Whitehorn, Facilitator

Location: Belleville, Michigan Years of Teaching: 25

If you had to describe yourself as an educator, what six words would you use and why?

I would describe myself as empathetic and caring. I understand many of the challenges that come with navigating curriculum and balancing our lives as students, parents, etc. I would also say that I am open and inquisitive. I love learning new things and improving the way I teach and relate to students. I love using humor, and I think that I am relatable to students.

What drew you to Reading Apprenticeship?

I was drawn to Reading Apprenticeship because I was looking to really be impactful in the lives of children, especially those that see reading in a negative light. I thought the framework considers the whole child as an active learner in this process.

What is your go-to Reading Apprenticeship routine?

My got-to reading activity is the partner Think Aloud.

Can you share a story about a time when you or a student had an “aha!” moment with Reading Apprenticeship?

I have had many “Aha” moments over the years. I think the biggest moments still come from showing my reading process. When I demonstrate the process and the vulnerability in questioning and making mistakes, it allows students to feel safe in the room, which then builds our social dimension, a critical component of the Reading Apprenticeship instructional framework.

If you could describe Reading Apprenticeship in a sentence, what would you say?

I would describe Reading Apprenticeship as an active process in positively impacting the reading experiences of our students.

What are you reading right now?

I am rereading Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates