Professional Development Services

KEYNOTES

Based on Kari and Jan’s groundbreaking book, Shifting the Balance, this keynote tells the story of their journey into the body of reading research, often referred to as the science of reading. They acknowledge that rethinking our practices is not only academic and practical work but is definitely emotional work as well. In this humorous, engaging, and science-filled keynote, they share strategies that can build a bridge between the reading science and classroom practice on behalf of students.  This keynote is ideal for districts experiencing polarization, resistance, or hesitation amongst staff members, and it illustrates the ways that bravely embracing science and balance will ensure that more children learn to read with less struggle. Educators will leave with both clarity and energy for the journey ahead.

WORKSHOPS

A workshop can serve as a kick-off to launch your work with Shifting the Balance, or it can serve as a culminating event for a book study. A half-day workshop offers a light touch with each shift. A full day takes the shifts deeper. A two-day workshop gives teachers even more opportunities to reflect on the six shifts with each other and connect them to their classroom practice. All workshops are designed to deepen teachers’ understanding of both reading science and practical application. Each of these workshops is also available with specific variations designed for groups of literacy leaders.

LEADERSHIP CONSULTATION 

Kari is passionate about working with school leaders, coaches, and teachers to build brighter outcomes for students, one step at a time. Kari has been in your shoes, as a building and district leader, she understands the critical role leaders play in developing a cohesive plan for professional development and instruction in literacy.  During a literacy consultation, Kari will direct her energy and expertise toward helping you make decisions and plans tailored to your specific needs. Kari will focus on identifying and building on your strengths while providing substantive, research-based support to help you achieve your specific goals.

LITERACY SYSTEMS REVIEW

The Literacy Systems Review brings Kari to your site to clarify how your current literacy practices are working together across classrooms and grade levels. Through classroom visits, review of core documents, and conversations with leadership teams and stakeholders, she helps identify strengths, gaps, and assets to spotlight and scale across methods, models, and programs. Conducted over multiple days, the review offers an outside perspective on your literacy framework, grounded in research, current practices, and your school’s specific goals. It provides actionable next steps to help maximize resources, leverage strengths, and support more consistent, brain-friendly instruction across your system.