VITA
Name: Sara D. Simonson
Present Position:
Literacy Professor
Department of Curriculum & Instruction
Western Illinois University
Academic Background:
Augustana College
Rock Island, IL
Western IL University Macomb, IL
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
Elementary Education/Science
Reading Education
Literacy/Secondary Reading/
Elementary Education
BS
MS
PhD
Areas of Specialization:
Literacy
Secondary Reading
Leadership in Reading
Content Area Reading Strategies
Effective Vocabulary Instruction
Areas of Certification:
K-9 Elementary Education
Title One Reading
Reading Specialist
Personal Data:
Work: Western Illinois University
Department of Curriculum & Instruction
Horrabin Hall 48d
Macomb, IL 61455
309-298-2510 or 309-298-1961
FAX: 309-298-2222
Employment Record:
Reading Consultant
Professor
Home: 561 105th Street
Avon, IL 61415
309-426-2750
Macomb Community Unit School District #185 (K-12)
Macomb, IL
2005-2007
Western IL University
Macomb, IL
1990-
Reading Specialist
Monmouth School District
Title 1 Reading 7th & 8th Grades
Study Skills Coordinator 4th-8th Grades
Reading Specialist Grades K-8
Volleyball Coach Grade 7
Asst. Track Coach Grades 7 & 8
Monmouth, IL 1986-1990
Title 1 Reading
Hamilton School District
Grades 1-8
Volleyball Coach Grade 7
Asst. Track Coach Grades 7 & 8
Cheerleading Coach Grades 7 & 8
Hamilton, IL
Graduate Assistant
Western IL University Macomb, IL
1985-1986
1984-1985
Publications:
Simonson, S.D. (2008). Professional development: Got your M&Ms? Wishing you magnificent,
magical moments. Illinois Reading Council Journal, 36, 55-58.
Simonson, S.D. (2008). Professional development: Why purchase the SUV when the VW Bug
will our perform it? (And other ways to save money to spend on books!) Illinois Reading
Council Journal, 36, 56-58.
Simonson, S.D. (2008). Professional development: Passion, Rod Stewart, and fabulous new
reading texts: What’s the connection? Illinois Reading Council Journal, 36, 45-48.
Simonson, S.D. (2008). Professional development: The view from a differentiated classroom.
Illinois Reading Council Journal, 36, 51-55.
Simonson, S.D. (2007). Professional development: Wanna do lunch and discuss scrumptious
new reads? Illinois Reading Council Journal, 36, 44-47.
Simonson, S.D. (2007). Professional development: Inquiring minds want to know. Illinois
Reading Council Journal, 35, 56-59.
Simonson, S.D. (2007). Professional development: Oh, the possibilities. Illinois Reading Council
Journal, 35, 36-38.
Simonson, S.D. (2007). Professional development: What new seeds of knowledge will be
planted in your mind? Illinois Reading Council Journal, 35, 65-68.
Simonson, S.D. (2006). Professional development: What are your reading resolutions for the
new year? Illinois Reading Council Journal, 35, 42-45.
Simonson, S.D. (2006). Professional development: Brushes with fame: Which literacy
educator do you boast about meeting? Illinois Reading Council Journal, 34, 42-45.
Simonson, S.D. (2006). Professional development: Have you hit a “Blue Moon”
lately? Illinois Reading Council Journal, 34, 54-57.
Simonson, S.D. (2006). Professional development: Are you wondering and wandering looking
for explanations, answers, ideas, or enlightenment? Illinois Reading Council Journal, 34,
65-67.
Wilcox, S., Brush, D., Simonson, S.D., & Beard, M. (2005-06). Online modules 1-10 Literacy to
learn: Reading and writing across the curriculum. United Star Distance Learning
Consortium.
Simonson, S.D. (2005). Module 4: Content Area Reading. Illinois State Board of Education
Teachers’ Academy. Best Practices in Reading: The Middle Grades and Beyond: 4-8.
Simonson, S.D. (2005). Effective instructional practices for content area classrooms at the
secondary level. Illinois State Board of Education’s Principal’s Flipchart.
Simonson, S.D. (2005). Professional development: Are you planning your “after the holidays”
fitness program? Don’t forget to stretch your mind! Illinois Reading Council Journal, 34,
59-61.
Simonson, S.D. (2005). Professional development: What are you toting in your bookbag?
Illinois Reading Council Journal, 33, 54-57.
Simonson, S.D. (2005). Professional development: What will energize you this summer and
encourage you to daydream about the “what-ifs” for fall 2005? Illinois Reading Council
Journal, 33, 53-56.
Simonson, S.D. (2005). Professional development: What are you packing this spring break?
Illinois Reading Council Journal, 33, 59-61.
Simonson, S.D. (2005). Professional development: Gift certificates burning a hole in your
pocket? Not anymore! Illinois Reading Council Journal, 33, 73-76.
Simonson, S.D. (2004). Professional development: What’s on your nightstand? New
professional books from authors who “show” what effective instruction looks like! Illinois
Reading Council Journal, 32, 57-59.
Simonson, S.D. (2001). Module 2: Supporting vocabulary, word analysis, and word study.
Illinois State Board of Education’s Meeting the Challenge: 3-5. Macomb, IL: Curriculum
Publications Clearinghouse.
Simonson, S.D. (2001). Module 3: Supporting readers in the content areas. Illinois State
Board of Education’s Meeting the Challenge: 3-5. Macomb, IL: Curriculum Publications
Clearinghouse.
Simonson, S.D. (1997). Building trust and community in the classroom. In D.Muse (Eds.), The
new press guide to multicultural resources for young readers (pp. 581-585). New York:
The New Press.
Simonson, S.D. (1997). Multiculturalism in the middle school: One aspect of a community of
learners. In D. Muse (Eds.), Handbook of multicultural children’s literature (pp. 826832). New York: (Reprinted from MultiCultural Review, 4, 36-42, by S.D. Simonson,
1995).
Simonson, S.D. (1995). A historical view of content area reading instruction. Reading
Psychology, 16, 99-147.
Simonson, S.D. (1995). Multiculturalism in the middle school: One aspect of a community of
learners. MultiCultural Review, 4, 36-42.
Simonson, S.D., White, M., & Curry, S. (1996). Angles on geometry. Book Links, 6, 25-30.
Simonson, S.D. (1996). Special needs children's books. Missouri English Bulletin, 54, 100-112.
Simonson, S.D. (1996). Excerpt from a written text. In B. Sunstein & E. Chiseri-Strater,
FieldWorking. Blair Press of Prentice Hall, Chapter 4, p. 22.
Grants:
McCaw, D., Watkins, S., Simonson, S.D., & Borgia, L. (2004). The middle school and beyond.
Illinois State Board of Education, $77, 278.00.
Simonson, S.D. (1993). The use of multicultural novels in pre-student teaching field
experience. WIU Foundation, $1197.00.
Critique / Evaluation of Unpublished Manuscripts
McGraw-Hill Publishers
Teaching the Struggling Reader
Spring 2004
McGraw-Hill Publishers
A Balanced Approach to Literacy Instruction
Spring 2001
Addison Wesley Longman Publishers
Ronald Cramer’s Creative Power: The Nature & Nurture of Children’s Writing
Fall 1999
Conference Presentations:
International:
2nd International Conference on Education, Economy and Society
Paris, France, July 21-24, 2010
Ferree, A., Stinnett, M., & Simonson, S.D. “Meeting Teachers’ Challenges in the 21st
Century: What Works & What Doesn’t”
International Reading Association 52nd Annual Convention
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, May 13-17, 2007
Simonson, S.D., Downing, E., Lewis, W.J., Krey, N., & Castle, M. “Effective Reading and
Writing Practices: Developing Critical Literacy in Diverse Discourse Communities”
(Proposal Accepted—Did Not Attend)
Hawaii International Conference on Education
Honolulu, Hawaii, January 4-7, 2005
Simonson, S.D. “Word Play in the Intermediate Grades? Yes, Let the Celebration of
Language Continue!”
International Whole Language Umbrella of NCTE
Literacies for All Summer Institute: Reading & Writing the Lives of Children
St. Paul, Minnesota, July 24-27, 2003 (Originally scheduled in Toronto, Canada)
Simonson, S.D., Borgia, L., & Ferree, A. “Language Celebration! Engaging Students at
the Middle Level”
Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education International Conference
Nashville, Tennessee, March 19-23, 2002.
Simonson, S.D., Philhower, S., Greer, R., Allen, J., Witten, B. “Cyber-Cerebration:
Edge Happenings at Western Illinois University”
17th World Congress on Reading
Ocho Rios, Jamaica, July 21-24, 1998.
Simonson, S.D. “Initiating the Conversation Among Preservice Teachers”
Whole Language Umbrella Seventh Annual International Conference
St. Paul, Minnesota, August 1-4, 1996.
Simonson, S.D. "Creating a Community of Learners and Expanding Horizons: A
Multifaceted Approach Integrating Multi-Ethnic Literature."
Whole Language Umbrella Sixth Annual International Conference
Windsor, Ontario, Canada, July 27-30, 1995.
Simonson, S.D. "Integrating Multi-Ethnic Literature: Exploring Issues of Diversity in
Rural Communities."
National:
International Reading Association 55th Annual Convention
Chicago, Illinois, April 25-28, 2010.
Simonson, S.D. “Celebrating Language Through Wondrous Wordplay”
International Reading Association 53rd Annual Convention
Atlanta, Georgia, May 3-8, 2008.
Borgia, L., & Simonson, S.D. “Podcasts and Vocabulary: In-Classroom Practice.”
(Proposal Accepted--Did Not Attend)
Technology, Reading, & Learning Diversity 2008 Conference: Create Paths of
Opportunity, San Francisco, California, January 24-26, 2008.
Borgia, L., & Simonson, S.D. “Podcasts and Vocabulary: An Instructional Enhancement.”
(Proposal Accepted--Did Not Attend)
College Reading Association
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, October 26-29, 2006.
Simonson, S.D. South “African Schools: A Chronicle of Experiences with Teachers and
Their Students” (Proposal Accepted—Did Not Attend)
Whole Language Umbrella Literacies for All Summer Institute
Charlotte, North Carolina, July 13-16, 2006.
Simonson, S.D. & Krey, N.
“Expanding Approaches to Critical Literacy”
International Reading Association 51st Annual Convention
Chicago, Illinois, April 30-May 4, 2006.
Simonson, S.D. “Word Play in Middle School? Yes, Inspire Students With a Celebration of
Language!”
Teaching Academic Study Skills
West Palm Beach, Florida, March 11-13, 2001.
Simonson, S.D. “Strategies Capitalizing on Student Investment & Interest”
National Council of Teachers of English 1998 Spring Conference
Albuquerque, New Mexico, March 19-21, 1998.
Simonson, S.D. “Preservice Teachers, Multiethnic Literature, & Rural Communities:
Exploring Beliefs in a Field Experience Practicum”
46th Annual Meeting of the National Reading Conference
Charleston, South Carolina, December 4-7, 1996.
Simonson, S.D. Chair: "School Literacy vs. Social Realities: The Experiences of
Culturally Diverse Children and Families in Rural America" Symposium
The 6th Annual Conference of the Institute for the Study of Postsecondary Pedagogy
Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, New York, November 20-22, 1996.
Simonson, S.D. "The Influence of Technology on Teacher Education Credential
Portfolios"
Seventh Annual National Student Success Conference
Dallas, Texas, March 7 & 8, 1994.
Simonson, S.D. "Integrating Reading Strategies & Literature Selections to Enhance
Content Area Comprehension."
International Reading Association 38th Annual Convention
San Antonio, Texas, April 26-30, 1993.
Colvin, C., Galles, L., Ross, P., & Simonson, S.D. "Exploring the Language of Learning:
Integrating Reading and Writing Strategies to Motivate and Enhance Content Area
Comprehension."
Regional:
34th Plains Regional Conference, International Reading Association
Overland Park, Kansas, November 8-11, 2007.
Borgia, L., Simonson, S.D., & Owles, C. “Podasts and Vocabulary: An Instructional
Enhancement.”
NCTE Professional Development Services - Conflict and Consensus: Exploring Diversity
and Standards in the Portfolio Movement
New Orleans, Louisiana, January 16-18, 1997.
Simonson, S.D. "A Different Twist in Portfolio Practicality: Teacher Education
Credential Portfolios."
1st Combined International Reading Association Regional Conference (Great Lakes &
Southeast)
Nashville, Tennessee, November 11-15, 1995.
Simonson, S.D. "Balancing Diversity: Integrating Multi-Ethnic Literature in Rural
Communities."
Fifteenth West Regional Conference, International Reading Association
Reno, Nevada, February 24-26, 1994.
Simonson, S.D. "Supporting Content Area Learning with Literature and Reading
Strategies."
Tenth Great Lakes Regional Reading Conference, International Reading Association
Rosemont, Illinois, September 22-24, 1993.
Simonson, S.D. "Integrating Reading Strategies and Literature Selections to Enhance
Content Area Comprehension."
Sixth Annual Reading and Study Skills Conference
Kansas City, Missouri, March 1 & 2, 1993.
Simonson, S.D. "Fortify Your Science Class . . . With Reading Strategies."
Fifth Annual Midwest Regional Reading and Study Skills Conference
Kansas City, Missouri, March 12 & 13, 1992.
Simonson, S.D. "Exploring Expository Text."
State:
Illinois State Board of Education Teachers’ Academy
Module 4: Training Teachers in Grades 4-8 (Staff Development)
June 13, 2006, DuPage County, Illinois 8:30-4:30
Simonson, S.D. “Content Area Reading and Informational Text”
Illinois State Board of Education Teachers’ Academy
Module 4: Training Teachers in Grades 4-8 (Staff Development)
June 21, 2006, St. Claire County, Illinois 8:30-4:30
Simonson, S.D. “Content Area Reading and Informational Text”
Fall Convention of the Illinois Council for Exceptional Children
November 4-6, 2004 Schaumburg, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “CD-Rom Credential Portfolios”
ICARE Summer Institute
Development of Materials & Presentation (Staff Development)
Funded by the Reading Excellence Act Grant
Summer 2002, Springfield, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Creative Uses of Literature”
2002 Illinois State Board of Education -- Summer Bridges Program
Selected as a Professional Development Presenter
Attended 2 Professional Development Sessions Scheduled by ISBE
Provided 30 hours of Professional Development for 2 schools:
ROWVA Elementary School Staff--Grades 1-6
Monmouth Elementary School Staff--Grades PreK-6
Assisted in Preparation of Instructional Sites for All Classrooms at 2 schools
Conducted Weekly Classroom Site Visits at each of the 2 schools
6-Week Summer School Program
Meeting the Challenge: 3-5
Module 2 & 3: Training Teachers in Grades 3-5 (Staff Development)
August 16, 2001, Chicago, Illinois 8:30-4:30
Simonson, S.D. “Supporting Vocabulary, Word Analysis, & Word Study” and
“Supporting Readers in the Content Areas”
Meeting the Challenge: 3-5
Module 2 & 3: Training Teachers in Grades 3-5 (Staff Development)
August 14, 2001, Peoria, Illinois 8:30-4:30
Simonson, S.D. “Supporting Vocabulary, Word Analysis, & Word Study” and
“Supporting Readers in the Content Areas”
Meeting the Challenge: 3-5
Module 2 & 3: Training Teachers in Grades 3-5 (Staff Development)
July 24, 2001, Belleville, Illinois 8:30-4:30
Simonson, S.D. “Supporting Vocabulary, Word Analysis, & Word Study” and
“Supporting Readers in the Content Areas”
2001 Illinois State Board of Education -- Summer Bridges Program
Selected as a Professional Development Presenter
Attended 2 Professional Development Sessions Scheduled by ISBE
Provided 30 hours of Professional Development for 3 schools:
Colchester Elementary School Staff--Grades PreK-6
ROWVA Elementary School Staff--Grades 1-6
Monmouth Elementary School Staff--Grades PreK-6
Assisted in Preparation of Instructional Sites for All Classrooms at 3 schools
Conducted Weekly Classroom Site Visits at each of the 3 schools
6-Week Summer School Program
United Star Distance Learning Consortium, Inc. (USDLC) Star Schools Project
Satellite education network broadcasts of the program occurred on April 29, May 13, &
May 27, 1999.
Developed content & delivery plan for multi-state distance-learning project / Serving
also as one of the on-air personalities
Illinois Education Association-NEA Leaping Into Teaching Student Program Fall
Conference
October 12, 1996, Normal, Illinois.
Simonson, S.D. "Portfolios & How to Write a Philosophy of Education"
Illinois Reading Council 27th Annual Conference
Springfield, Illinois, March 16-18, 1995.
Simonson, S.D. "Balancing Diversity: Integrating Multi-Ethnic Literature in Rural
Communities."
Illinois Reading Council 25th Annual Conference
Springfield, Illinois, March 18-20, 1993.
Simonson, S.D. "Fortify Your Science Class . . . With Reading Strategies."
First Annual IASCD Elementary State Conference
Normal, Illinois, March 11-12, 1993.
Simonson, S.D. "Energize Your Content Area . . . With Reading Strategies."
IASCD Annual Middle Level Conference
Naperville, Illinois, February 26, 1993.
Simonson, S.D. "Fortify Your Science Class . . .With Reading Strategies."
Illinois Reading Council 24th Annual Conference
Springfield, IL, March 19-21, 1992.
Simonson, S.D. "Exploring Expository Text."
22nd Annual Day of Reading, Secondary Reading League
Matteson, Illinois, October 24, 1992.
Simonson, S.D. "Fortify Your Science Class With Reading Strategies."
Local:
7th Annual Tech Fest
March 29, 2006, Macomb, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Technology as a Tool”
“A Showcase and Celebration of Technology Achievements by Past and Current
Members” College of Education and Human Services
February 17, 2006, Macomb, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Technology as a Tool”
Graduate School Roundtable
March 31, 2004, Macomb, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Graduate Reading Program”
5th Annual Tech Fest
March 31, 2004, Macomb, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Teacher Ed Portfolios on CD Rom”
Kappa Delta Pi
October 11, 2003, Macomb, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Electronic Portfolios”
School Consolidation Project
Roseville, Colchester, Northwest, La Harpe School Districts
March-November 2002 Weekly Meetings & Community Roundtables
Simonson, S.D. Committee of Ten Representative & Chair of Curriculum Committee
Radio Interview: WIUM
October 23, 2002, Macomb, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. Addressing Consolidation Questions
Radio Interview: Public Perspective 102.7 WJEQ
September 19, 2002, Macomb, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. Addressing Consolidation Questions
MBC Club
October 17, 2002, Roseville, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Issues in Consolidation”
PEO
October 7, 2002, Roseville, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Issues in Consolidation”
Senior Citizen Center
September 25, 2002, Roseville, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Issues in Consolidation”
Legion Auxiliary
September 17, 2002, Roseville, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Issues in Consolidation”
Roseville School District: 6 Presentations to Grades 5 & 6, Grades 7 & 8,
Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors
September 5, 2002, Roseville, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Issues in Consolidation”
Christian Church - Powerpoint Presentation to Community
June 20, 2002, La Harpe, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Consolidation”
Roseville High School - Powerpoint Presentation to Community
June 4, 2002, Roseville, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Consolidation”
Colchester High School - Powerpoint Presentation to Community
May 30, 2002, Colchester, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Consolidation”
Roseville Elementary School - Powerpoint Presentation to Faculty & Staff
May 22, 2002, Roseville, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Consolidation”
La Harpe High School - Powerpoint Presentation to Faculty & Staff
May 17, 2002, La Harpe, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Consolidation”
Northwest High School - Powerpoint Presentation to Faculty & Staff
May 16, 2002, Blandinsville, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Consolidation”
Colchester High School - Powerpoint Presentation to Faculty & Staff
May 14, 2002, Colchester, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Consolidation”
Faculty Innovators iFair
April 26, 2002, Macomb, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. Custom Multimedia Presentation
3rd Annual Tech Fest
April 11, 2002, Macomb, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Technology Enhanced Portfolios”
Western Illinois University Literacy Conference 2001--Issues & Trends in Reading
September 21, 2001, Macomb, Illinois.
Simonson, S.D. “Using Children’s & Young Adult Literature for Content Area Reading”
Western Illinois University Literacy Conference 1999--Issues & Trends in Reading
September 24, 1999, Macomb, Illinois.
Simonson, S.D. “Exploring Content Area Vocabulary Strategies”
Roseville Elementary School 8th Grade Promotion Speaker
May 27, 1999, Roseville, Illinois.
Simonson, S.D. “Celebrating the Moment and Imagining the Future”
MATH TEAM, March 22, 1998, Western Illinois University.
Simonson, S.D. “Math & Literature: One of My Favorite Combos!”
Teachers Sharing Excellence Conference, March 7, 1997, Western Illinois University.
Simonson, S.D. “Teacher Education Credential Portfolios”
Student Education Association, October 17, 1996, Western Illinois University.
Simonson, S.D. "What Is a Credential Portfolio and Why You Should Be Thinking About It
Now"
Teachers Sharing Excellence Conference
February 16, 1996, Western Illinois University.
Simonson, S.D., Godt, P., & Thistlethwaite, L. "The Joys & Tribulations of TeamTeaching a Distance-Learning Class"
Council of Exceptional Children
Western Illinois University, November 8, 1995
Simonson, S.D. "Everything You Always Wanted to Know About the 1st Year of
Teaching...But Were Afraid to Ask!"
Society of Educators
Blackhawk College, March 29, 1995
Simonson, S.D. "Credential Portfolios for Teachers"
Educational Service Center #11's Writing Talent Search Celebration, April 30, 1993.
Simonson, S.D. "Extra! Extra! Read All About It!"
National Honor Society, Roseville High School, April 24, 1992.
Simonson, S.D. Address to the inductees, members, & guests.
Chapter N, P.E.O., Roseville, Illinois, March 7, 1992.
Simonson, S.D. "New Trends in Teaching Reading and Writing."
Selected Professional Work Experiences:
Rock Island-Milan School District #41—K-6
“Robust Vocabulary Instruction”
March 2, 2011
Rock Island, Illinois
ROE Workshop: Bureau, Henry & Stark County Middle School & High School Faculty
“Engaging Readers in Active Reading Processes: Before, During, & After”
February 10 & 11, 2011
Atkinson, Illinois
In-Service: R.O.W.V.A. School District – Grades 6-12
“Engaging Students in Text: Before, During, & After Reading/Thinking Techniques”
January 31, 2011
Oneida, Illinois
In-Service: Abingdon School District K-12
“Focus on Summarizing & Synthesizing Information”
April 16, 2010
Abingdon, Illinois
In-Service: Abingdon School District K-12
“Focus on Determining Importance in Text”
March 12, 2010
Abingdon, Illinois
In-Service: Havana School District K-12
“Summarizing & Synthesizing Information”
February 22, 2010
Havana, Illinois
In-Service: Abingdon School District K-12
“Questioning, Visualizing & Making Inferences in Reading”
January 29, 2010
Abingdon, Illinois
In-Service: Havana School District K-12
“Determining Importance in Text”
January 19, 2010
Havana, Illinois
In-Service: Havana School District K-12
“Visualizing & Making Inferences in Reading”
November 16, 2009
Havana, Illinois
In-Service: Churchill Junior High School & Lombard Junior High School
“Focus on Monitoring Comprehension and Activating & Connecting to Background
Knowledge”
October 9, 2009
Galesburg, Illinois
In-Service: Havana School District K-12
“Questioning Strategies”
October 5, 2009
Havana, Illinois
In-Service: Abingdon School District K-12
“Engaging Readers in Active Reading Processes”
September 4, 2009
Abingdon, Illinois
In-Service: Havana School District K-12
“Focus on Monitoring Comprehension and Activating & Connecting to Background
Knowledge”
August 31, 2009
Havana, Illinois
In-Service: VIT School District
“Questioning Strategies” Middle School & High School Faculty
“Visualizing & Inferring Reading Strategies” Elementary School Faculty
April 9, 2009
Table Grove, Illinois
In-Service: Immaculate Conception School K-8
“Questioning Strategies”
November 19, 2008
Monmouth, Illinois
ROE Workshop: Bureau, Henry & Stark County Middle School & High School Faculty
“Engaging Struggling Readers in the Middle and High School Classroom”
June 30 & July 1, 2008
Atkinson, Illinois
In-Service: Brimfield Middle School & High School
“Promoting Active, Engaged Learning Through Questioning Strategies & Critical Thinking
Skills”
February 15, 2008
Brimfield, Illinois
ROE Workshop: Middle School & High School Faculty
“Engaging Readers in Active Reading Processes”
July 16, 17, & 18, 2007
Centralia, Illinois
ROE Workshop: Middle School & High School Faculty
“Engaging Readers in Active Reading Processes”
June 18 & 19, 2007
Litchfield, Illinois
In-Service: West Carroll Primary School
“Kicking Off Summer School With a Home Run: Effective Reading Instruction Scores
Every Time!”
June 11, 2007
Savanna, Illinois
In-Service: United Township High School
“Celebrating Passionate Curiosity!”
May 4, 2007
Moline, Illinois
In-Service: Macomb High School
“Comprehension Strategy: Visualizing & Making Inferences”
April 11, 2007
Macomb, Illinois
In-Service: Macomb High School
“Comprehension Strategy: Visualizing & Making Inferences”
March 28, 2007
Macomb, Illinois
In-Service: Macomb High School
“Comprehension Strategy: Questioning”
March 7, 2007
Macomb, Illinois
In-Service: Macomb High School
“Comprehension Strategy: Questioning”
February 22, 2007
Macomb, Illinois
Literacy Coach / Consulting K-12: Macomb School District – Maria Dunstan
Spring 2005 – Summer 2007
Macomb Junior High & Senior High School – Content Area Reading
Macomb High School Special Education Department – Reading Program
Macomb Middle School – Reading Text Adoption & Literacy Plan
Macomb Elementary School – Reading Text Adoption, Literacy Centers, Guided Reading
In-Service: Grant Middle School & Washington Middle School
“Content Area Reading”
February 19, 2007
Springfield, Illinois
In-Service: Macomb High School
“Comprehension Strategy: Questioning”
February 7, 2007
Macomb, Illinois
In-Service: Macomb High School
“Comprehension Strategy: Questioning”
January 10, 2007
Macomb, Illinois
Workshop: Lincoln Elementary School
“Guided Reading & Literacy Centers”
January 4 & 5, 2007
Macomb, Illinois
In-Service: Steele Elementary School
“Best Practices in Reading”
December 6, 2006
Galesburg, Illinois
Workshop: Grant Middle School – Special Education Department
“Teaching Content Area Reading”
November 28, 2006, 8:00-3:00
Springfield, Illinois
In-Service: Macomb Junior High and Senior High School
“How Can We Engage Our Students Before, During, and After Assigned Reading?
August 17, 2005, Macomb, Illinois
Workshop: Hamilton Elementary School
“Reading Comprehension”
July 31 & August 1, 2006, 9:00-5:00
Hamilton, Illinois
Workshop: DuPage County Regional Office of Education
“Reading Informational Text Grades 4-8”
March 3, 2006, Glen Ellyn, Illinois
Review Panel Member
Illinois State Board of Education and Illinois Reading First
January 18 & 19, 2006, Springfield, Illinois
Simonson, S.D. “Evaluating Proposals for the Round Three Reading First Subgrant
Competition”
In-Service: Hamilton School District & Select Teachers from Dallas City School District
Elementary School Faculty: “Building Comprehension: Reading—Thinking Strategies”
Junior High Faculty: “Engaging Students for Active Learning: Reading Activities to
Captivate ALL Students”
High School Faculty: “Content Area Reading: Providing Purpose and Focus for Assigned
Reading”
January 13, 2006, Hamilton, Illinois
In-Service: Macomb High School Faculty
Content Area Reading, 8:00-3:30
January 12, 2006, Macomb, Illinois
In-Service: Macomb School District K-8
Basal Reader Selection Project
2005: September 1st, October 6th, November 3rd, December 1st
2006: January 5th, January 23rd, February 2nd, February 7th, February 9th, February 21st,
March 2nd, March 23rd, April 6th
Presentation: Lincoln Elementary School
December 20, 2005 Results of Observation/Shadowing Teachers During Reading
Grades K-4
In-Service: Macomb Middle School and High School Faculty
August 17, 2005 “How Can We Engage Our Students Before, During, and After
Assigned Reading?”
Workshops: Reading First
Regional Office of Education
Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Comprehension, & Vocabulary
June 27-30, 2005 Teachers of Grades: Pre-K - 2
Workshops: Reading First
Regional Office of Education
Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Comprehension, & Vocabulary
June 13-16, 2005 Teachers of Grades: 3
Workshop: Regional Office of Education
June 9, 2005 Reading First: K-2 Renewal
In-Service: Macomb School District K-8
May 25, 2005 Basal Reader Selection Project
In-Services: West Prairie Middle School Teachers
Reading Improvement Block Grant - 6 weeks
Focus: Word Study, Reading & Writing Blocks for Grades 4-6
April 25 & May 5, 9, 11, 16, & 17, 2005
In-Service: Moline Ericsson Elementary School
February 28, 2005 “Verbalizing Comprehension Strategies: Creating a Common
Language K-6”
In-Service: Springfield High School Faculty
February 10, 2005 Content Area Reading Techniques
In-Service: LaHarpe School District
December 14, 2004 “Before, During, & After Reading Strategies”
2 Sessions: Primary Teachers & Middle School Teachers
In-Service: Springfield High School Faculty
December 7, 2004 Content Area Reading Techniques
In-Service: ROWVA School District
October 15, 2004 “Expository Writing Instruction”
In-Service: LaHarpe School District
October 12, 2004 “Before, During, & After Reading Strategies”
2 Sessions: Primary Teachers & Middle School Teachers
Workshops: Reading First
Regional Ofice of Education
Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Comprehension, & Vocabulary
July 13, 14, 15, &16, 2004 Teachers of Grades: Pre-K - 2
Workshop: Regional Office of Education
June 18, 2004 Reading First: K-2 Renewal
In-Service: Dallas City School District
April 30, 2004 “Common Language with Content Area Reading Strategies”
In-Services: West Prairie Middle School Teachers
Reading Improvement Block Grant - 7 weeks
Focus: Content Area Reading (Nonfiction)
April 12, 19, 26 & May 3, 10, 17, & 24, 2004
In-Service: ROWVA School District
March 4, 2004 “The Writing Curriculum”
Two Sessions: Morning & Afternoon
In-Service: ROWVA School District
February 27, 2004 “The Writing Curriculum”
Two Sessions: Morning & Afternoon
In-Service: Dallas City School District
February 13, 2004 “Developing Your District’s Common Language”
In-Service: ROWVA School District
February 12, 2004 “The Writing Curriculum”
Two Sessions: Morning & Afternoon
In-Service: ROWVA School District
February 6, 2004 “The Writing Curriculum”
Two Sessions: Morning & Afternoon
In-Service: ROWVA School District
January 30, 2004 “The Writing Curriculum”
Two Sessions: Morning & Afternoon
In-Service: Dallas City School District
November 21, 2003 “Comprehension Strategies: A Common Language”
In-Service: ROWVA School District
October 10, 2003 “Writing Process & Beyond”
Workshops: Reading First
Regional Office of Education
Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Comprehension, & Vocabulary
June 2003 Teachers of Grades: Pre-K - 2
In-Service: Dallas City School District
April 25, 2003 Strategies That Work
In-Service: Dallas City School District
March 14, 2003 Mosaic of Thought
In-Service: Orion School District
May 9, 2002 “Creative Uses of Literature”
In-Service: Monmouth School District
January 15, 2002 “Enhancing Students’ Thinking”
In-Service: Sangamon ROE Staff Development Center, Springfield, Illinois
November 2, 2001 “Reading & Writing Strategies Across the Curriculum
for Secondary Teachers”
In-Service: ROE, Jacksonville, Illinois
October 22, 2001 “Reading Strategies for Comprehension Across the Content Areas”
Workshop Series: Monmouth School District
September 10, 2001 “Writing Process”
September 17, 2001 “Writing Workshop”
September 24, 2001 “Assessing & Responding to Writing”
October 1, 2001 “Writing Conferences / Narrative Writing”
October 15, 2001 “Writing Across the Curriculum”
In-Service: Bushnell-Prairie City School District
February 26, 2001 “Writing Assessment”
In-Service: Monmouth School District
October 6, 2000 “Reading Strategies Across the Curriculum”
In-Service: Orion School District
September 29, 2000 “Creative Uses of Literature”
Workshop: Silvis Elementary School - Rae Miller
March 1998 “Integrating Tradebooks in the Content Areas”
Consulting: Lewistown Elementary School - Sue McKee
January - February 1998 “Spelling Programs & Research”
Consulting: East Alton High School - Trish Sullivan
February 23, 1996 "Evaluating Secondary Reading Program"
Consulting: Yorkwood Elementary School - Sue McKee
September - October 1995 "Evaluating Basal Series"
Workshop: Silvis Junior High School - Joni Cross
August 23, 1995 "Study Skills"
Workshop: Silvis Elementary School - Rae Miller
March 1995 "Study Skills"
Workshop: Silvis Elementary School - Rae Miller
May 1995 "Study Skills"
Study Abroad
People to People Ambassador Program: A Delegation of Literacy Educators Exploring the
Educational System in South Africa. May/June 2006
Professional Affiliations:
International Reading Association
Illinois Reading Council
Western Illinois Reading Council
National Council of Teachers of English
National Middle School Association
Kappa Delta Pi
Phi Kappa Phi
Honors & Professional Offices Held:
COEHS Travel Award – Spring 2011
Most Inspirational Teacher at Western Illinois University
Student Education Association, April 2004
Most Inspirational Teacher, Honorable Mention
Student Education Association February 2001
Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers
6th Edition -- 2000
Nominated by a former student
Golden Apple Award
Student Alumni Council
September 1999
Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers
5th Edition -- 1998
Nominated by a former student
Outstanding Teacher in the College of Education & Human Services
Teacher of the Year Award
1995-96
Faculty Excellence Award
1994-95
Faculty Excellence in Multicultural Programming Award
1st Recipient: Sara Simonson 1995
Nomination: Howard Jones Achievement Award
University of Iowa
College of Education 1995
Travel Award - Spring 1998
Travel Award - Fall 1996
Travel Award - Fall 1995
Travel Award - Fall 1992
National:
Alpha Upsilon Alpha Steering Committee of the International Reading Association
1993-1994
Sub-Committee Appointments: Program Selection of Inductees
State:
Associate Editor, Illinois Reading Council Journal
Fall 2004 - 2008
Local:
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
Faculty Advisor: Sara Simonson 2005-
Alpha Upsilon Alpha - Mu Chapter, WIU
Faculty Advisor: Sara Simonson 1996-2000
Alpha Upsilon Alpha - Mu Chapter, WIU
Vice President: Sara Simonson 1994-1996
Alpha Upsilon Alpha - Mu Chapter, WIU
Past President: Sara Simonson 1993-1995
Alpha Upsilon Alpha - Mu Chapter, WIU
President: Sara Simonson 1991-1993
Service / Committees
University
1.
Midwest Center for Sustainability
2007-2009
2.
Counsel for International Education
2006-2009
3.
Administrative Internship Selection
Committee
2003-2007
4.
Affirmative Action and Equity Council
Faculty At-Large Representative
2001-2005
5.
Committee on Honorary Doctorate
Faculty Senate Representative
2001-2003
6.
Performing Arts Society Member
2001-2006
7.
Bureau of Cultural Affairs
2000-2003
8.
Faculty Senate
Committee on Committees, Member
1999-2002
9.
Distinguished Faculty Lecturer
Selection Committee Member
Chair
1998-1999
10.
1999-2000
Affirmative Action Adminstrative
Internship Selection Committee
1997-2000
11.
Minority Student Retention Task Force
1996-1999
12.
Extended and Continuing Education
Advisory Committee
1996-1999
13.
Faculty Orientation Leader
Academic Issues
"Welcome to Western" Orientation
Summer 1996
College
1.
COEHS Search Committee Member
Development Officer Position
Spring 2006
2.
COEHS Search Committee Member
Assistant to the Dean Position
Fall 2005
3.
COEHS Innovators in Teaching &
Learning Laptop Program
Professional Development Initiative
2005-2007
4.
COEHS Innovators in Teaching &
Learning Laptop Program
Professional Development Initiative
2001-2002
5.
Dean’s Evaluation Committee Member
1999-2000
6.
Ad Hoc Committee on E-Folios & iBooks
1999-2000
7.
COEHS Scholarship Committee
Co-Chair 1997-98
Chair 1998-00
1997-2000
Department
1.
Literacy Faculty Search Committee, Member Spring 2006
2.
Ad Hoc Committee on Marketing, Member
Spring 2004
3.
Literacy Faculty Search Committee, Chair
2002-2003
4.
Personnel Committee Member
2001-2004
5.
Committee on Committees Member
1999-2002
6.
Graduate Committee Member
Fall 2001-Fall 2006
7.
Coordinator of Graduate Reading Program
Fall 2001-Fall 2006
8.
Co-Coordinator of Graduate Reading
Program
Spring 2001
9.
Selection & Retention Committee, Chair
1997-2001
10.
Scholarship Committee, Member
Chair
2000-2003
2001-2002
11.
Graduate Committee, Member
1997-1999
12.
Redesign Team / Goals 2000 Member
1998-1999
13.
Literacy Faculty Search Committee Member 1998-1999
Course Offerings I have taught at Western Illinois University:
Undergraduate:
RDG 366
Elementary School Reading Methods
RDG 384
Literacy Instruction for the Intermediate Grades
RDG 433
Introduction to Corrective Reading
RDG 468
Teaching Reading in the Secondary School and College
ELED 370
Field Experience in Elementary Education
ELED 470
Field Experience in Elementary Education
ELED 110
Introduction to Elementary Education
ELED 445
Honors Seminar
Graduate:
RDG 508
RDG 553
RDG 468G
RDG 568
RDG 570
RDG 571
RDG 573
RDG 574
RDG 584
RDG 584
RDG 588
RDG 675
LA 577
LA 567
LLA 443G
Phonics for Decoding and Spelling (On-Line Course)
Integrating Reading and Writing Through Inquiry
Teaching Reading in the Secondary School and College
Foundations of Reading in the Middle and Secondary School
Teaching Reading in the Elementary School (Satellite Course - 3 sites)
Assessment of Reading Abilities & Disabilities
Correction and Remediation of Reading Difficulties
Practicum in Reading
Vocabulary Development K-12 (On-Line Course)
Vocabulary Development K-12 (Face-to-Face)
Leadership in Reading
Reading/Thinking Comprehension Strategies
Writing in the Elementary School
Language Arts
Creative Uses of Literature
Dissertation Topic:
Pre-Service Teachers, Multiethnic Literature, and Rural Communities: Exploring
Beliefs in a Field Experience Practicum