Praise from our Thinking Partners
Read these notes from the field to learn what people are saying about Read. Write. Think.
Picture it: You find yourself juggling students struggling to read at grade level without the time and resources to execute research-based techniques. Fatigue is setting in.
Demi Aguirre knew things needed to change.
After previously working with Renee as a teacher and an assistant principal, Demi understood the need for ongoing support to build a culture of literacy. To spearhead this mindset shift, she brought in Renee to support teachers new to the work of balanced literacy, as well as offer support for teacher collaboration and principal collaboration. Today, her teaching practices are more student-centered; students are more engaged with reading and writing - and it’s only the beginning.
“I consider Renee Houser someone I can continuously lean on as a thought partner. She helps me feel more confident, keeps me student-centered, and encourages me to be a lifelong learner.”
Demi Aguirre, ELA Support Coordinator in San Pedro Community of Schools
Raise your hand if this sounds familiar: You’re tackling the difficult and complex task of teaching writing - but students don’t seem engaged or to be having fun. You want your practice engaging, authentic, and set up students to experience success on a consistent basis.
Kimberly Hawkins decided to make a change.
When the opportunity presented itself to work with Renee, Kimberly jumped in head first. It has allowed her to pause and reflect on her current practices while learning new skills and adding new tools to her toolbox. Today, a genuine sense of purpose-driven writing allows everyone in the class (including Kimberly) to write more and enjoy the process. As she has transitioned to early elementary, Kimberly actively partners with Renee to support her in shifting the writing process to younger students.
“Renee is always there and willing to answer any questions that we may have about our writing process as both writers, and as teachers of writing. She has truly helped us and students enjoy writing.”
Kimberly Hawkin, 2nd grade teacher in Union County Public School
Just imagine: You show up to a summer institute with your sticky notes organized, colored pens in a line, and a brand new notebook ready to dive in. At this session, you and the presenter connect and discover a shared love of office supplies in the curriculum. You don’t just walk away with new tools and strategies, but a new thinking partner, too.
Heidi Schaefer doesn’t have to imagine - she lived it.
An attendee of Renee’s workshops for over a decade, veteran educator Heidi knew where to turn when she found her wheels spinning during the Covid-19 pandemic. Through several conversations, collaborative brainstorming, and a summer session on “Clearing the Clutter from our Curriculum,” Heidi has emerged on the other side of virtual teaching as a model lead learner for colleagues and students.
“Because I am always striving to implement the best teaching practices, I know that studying with Renee is a lifetime partnership!”
Heidi Schaefer, 3rd grade teacher in Los Angeles Unified
Let’s set the scene: You want to stay true to your core beliefs of teaching but there’s a lingering disconnect between teacher, student, and content. You’re ready to do the work to change things, but you need the right thinking partner to facilitate change.
Kristi Mirich knew she needed someone to work through ideas with.
Committed to being present and listening to students in ways that drove her teaching decisions, she joined Renee in professional study and reflection. This allowed Kristi to polish her craft by studying the importance of modeling a step-by-step process of skills and strategies in both reading and writing. After working with Renee, she adapted her approach to teaching and planning through a lens of student-centered instruction.
“Renee fueled us. Her energy is infectious. She has a genuine love and curiosity about her and really values every single teacher she works with.”
Kristi Mirich, Cotsen Mentor in Los Angeles Unified School District
So, here’s what happened: The teachers at Wingate Elementary wanted to focus their professional study goals around the teaching of writing. They voiced their need for guidance in supporting all student writers throughout the K-5 community.
Emerald Johnson knew who to call.
She wanted to partner with someone who works in multiple communities to provide fresh eyes, perspective, and innovation. After participating in a “Lab Study” with Renee at a neighboring school, she knew this approach would benefit Wingate teachers and students. Despite a slight delay in the start (thanks, Covid), the first teacher think tank met in 2021 to create a vision and culture of professional study to share with the entire community - the ball’s kept rolling ever since.
“The teachers and students at Wingate Elementary School have a love for writing they’ve never had! They have increased their knowledge and understanding of the process and how to weave the language of “process learning” throughout their day.”
Emerald Johnson, Instructional Support Specialist in Union County Public Schools
Here’s the story: Leaders in the Los Angeles Unified School District wanted to offer kids more choice and felt the current curriculum didn’t offer that. This kind of change would require buy-in from staff - which isn’t always an easy thing to do.
Lou Mardesich knew who would be up to the challenge.
He brought in Renee to work with principals and teachers to make them “lead learners” and learn alongside students rather than instructing them. Lou believed she would develop the necessary relationship to motivate people to adapt and change. As a result, the district experienced a culture shift and increase in the number of teachers who voluntarily decided to seek personal and professional development. Following Renee’s involvement, one school also saw an 87% increase in their API score.
“Renee has a never-ending quest to get better. She’s always pushing to stay ahead. Renee is in this work for the right reason, and no one will outwork her when it comes to learning.”
Lou Mardesich, Community of Schools Administrator in Los Angeles Unified School District