Learn about your colleagues from across the country who do whatever it takes as part of the Reading Recovery Community! Rachel was able to attend LitCon this year because of a generous financial award from the Foundation for Struggling Readers.

What is your favorite thing about Reading Recovery?

I have many favorite things about Reading Recovery, but my favorite is working one-on-one with children because of the strong connections and advances we are able to make. What a luxurious opportunity it is to have 30 minutes alone with a student to read and write. I treasure this time of my day and always look forward to the next.

Share a favorite Reading Recovery memory.

A favorite Reading Recovery memory was working with a very reluctant new student, George. I even made a “Reading License” for George after a couple of days of working together to instill more confidence. After our RAK sessions, he was showing signs of accelerated progress! Mary Fried visited our school that same year and even worked with George; she has gone on to share George’s work (in HRSW after RAK) in some of her talks.

What is your favorite book?

My favorite children’s book is Soft Child by Joe Hayes.

What do you like to do for fun?

Well, in the summer I do enjoy reading for pleasure, but during the school year, I enjoy spending relaxing nights and weekends at home with my family. For fun I will walk the dog, take in the fresh air, appreciate the beautiful place that I am lucky enough to call home, and just enjoy the small things.