Gail Bohnenstiehl

Expertise: Children’s Literature * Literacy K-8 * 6 Trait Writing * Common Core State Standards

Over the years, Gail has been a teacher, literacy coordinator, and adjunct professor. She was also a program coordinator for the first primary year’s program in Illinois of the International Baccalaureate Schools. For the Illinois State Board of Education, Gail has written, scored, and validated the state reading and writing assessments. This collaboration with the State Board has put Gail in the unique position of being able to incorporate the most current standards in her trainings.

As a member of the State Language Arts Assessment Advisory Committee, Gail has been an important voice in decisions regarding state assessments. She’s also a member of the Illinois Reading Council and International Reading Association; and the recipient of the Early Educator Award from Exeter Academy in New Hampshire. Most recently, she’s been invited to join PARCC (Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers) -- the national panel for passage review for the 2015 literacy assessment. Gail’s training style has been developed and honed to such a degree that she delivers a workshop that is built upon extensive knowledge, practicality, fun, and tools that can be used the next day.

At the Professional Development Alliance, she spreads her joy of reading with those in her workshops. Her passion for literature and literacy has driven her to be an Amazon “Golden One Click” member. Developing best practices in reading instruction, valuing independent reading, and creating a rich vocabulary environment which leads to increased student achievement is the goal of her staff development.

Gail received her B.A. in Education from the University of Kansas and her M.A. in Urban Study/Reading from Governors State University.

Professional Development topics Gail can bring to you:

Connecting Reading and Writing with the Common Core State Standards
What’s New in Children’s Literature and How to Use it in the Classroom
Balanced Literacy in the 2-6 Classroom
6 Trait Writing: A Match to the Common Core
Reading Strategies for ISAT Success: Grades 3-8

“The information I found most useable (was) how the Common Core Standards will shift my approach to teaching.” ~ High School English Teacher, Lincoln-Way East High School

“Gail is wonderful! She rocks!” ~ Middle school special education teacher, Ludwig School

“Not only were there numerous opportunities for engagement with the materials, but sharing the thought processes and practicing the logistics with other professionals was key.” ~ Middle school ELA teacher, Humphrey Middle School

Contact Gail for more information regarding these trainings - gbohnenstiehl@pdaonline.org