We have an all new panel of judges this year in place to help us choose our 2016 Relevant Reads contest winners! These talented education and literacy professionals will be looking for those stories which best meet the criteria and goals of the Story Shares library: to engage struggling readers with content that is relevant to their ages, interests, and experiences, written in language that is accessible and approachable. We know from experience that choosing these winners is no easy feat, and we are tremendously grateful to these individuals for their time, feedback, and support! Read on below to learn more about our terrific 2016 panel.
- Dale Allender, Ph.D., is a Professor of Language and Literacy in the Department of Teaching Credentials at California State University Sacramento. His scholarship includes work in multicultural literature, media literacy, and cultural studies. Dale is also the Founding Director, National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE West), and an urban school district Mentor for the National Urban Alliance for Effective Education. Dale teaches courses in multicultural education and language studies.
- Lisa Simon, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Transformative Literacy in the Department of Teaching, Learning, & Culture in City College's School of Education. She received her doctorate in Applied Psychology from the School of Education at New York University. She is the author of numerous journal articles. Simon's scholarship centers on the ways in which literacy can be used to negotiate and challenge barriers to equitable learning opportunities.
- Susan J. Behrens, Ph.D., is Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Marymount Manhattan College and one of the directors of Marymount's Center for Teaching Innovation and Excellence. She earned a doctorate in Linguistics from Brown University and was an associate of the Institute for Writing and Thinking at Bard College. She contributes writing assignments to The New York Times in Education during the academic year. Her books include Language in the Real World: An Introduction to Linguistics (co-edited with Judith A. Parker; Routledge), Grammar: A Pocket Guide (Routledge), and Understanding Language Use in the Classroom: A Linguistic Guide for College Educators (Multilingual Matters). She is currently working on Teaching against Linguistic Stereotypes: Lesson Plans for Teachers (Multilingual Matters).
Our 2016 contest is open through December 31, 2016! Be sure to check out our five great categories and awesome prizes today!