English Trainer
In her “pre-LTF” days, Laura attended three Pre-AP teacher training institutes at Rice University – all of which happened to be led by Ronda Brandon (current LTF COO). After the third seminar, where Laura shared an original lesson she developed for her students based on the training, Ronda suggested she become a presenter herself. Later, Laura was introduced to the LTF guides while they were still in draft version, and eagerly shared them with fellow teachers. Laura participated in the first Train the Trainers workshop in 2004 and began training in 2005. Her role as a trainer ramped up in 2006, when she became a permanent LTF employee in order to assist with the volume of trainings provided through the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation grant.
Laura loves having the opportunity to make an impact in Houston, her home district, as well as other districts, while at the same time continuing to “develop as a teacher and trainer by being exposed to so many great ideas – both from trainees and LTF colleagues.” She estimates that she has had the chance to “train, encourage, and get to know by first name over 500 teachers,” not all of whom were initially receptive to LTF training. “When I came to my first Dell trainings, many teachers sat back with their arms folded. Now we often exchange hugs, war stories, and creative teaching ideas. I have come to see the powerful combination of personal relationships and consistently high standards work in trainings just as it has in my own classroom.”
One of the most meaningful aspects of her current role is being “part of a wonderful movement for excellence and equity in education.” This passion for equitable access to education is evident in Laura’s description of her own education philosophy: “The best way to overcome inequality in this country is by offering every student, regardless of race, home life, native language, or financial status, the chance to participate in creative thinking, reading, and writing – starting as early as possible.” Laura hopes that LTF can offer more students this chance by continuing to provide teacher trainings in both large and small districts, and in public and private schools, especially in underserved areas. She is also excited about integrating mentoring and lesson planning into training programs, as well as developing lessons for elementary students.
Laura holds a BA and MAT. Prior to joining LTF, she spent 8 years in the classroom (at middle school, high school and community college levels) and 4 years as a private tutor. She also presented at several College Board two-day workshops and summer institutes at universities across Texas. In addition to training for LTF, Laura also serves as an online writing tutor for Houston Community College.