Who We Are

Co-Founder: Dr. Salika Lawrence is a teacher educator who has worked with and mentored pre-service and in-service teachers who improve schools inside and outside the classroom for more than two decades.  Before becoming a college professor she taught public school in New York City.  Her research and publications focus on a broad range of topics.  Her interests include critical literacy and pedagogy, literacy education, adolescent literacy, teacher education and professional development, sociology and the context of education. 

Co-Founder: Tiffany Labissiere is a citywide literacy coach and professional developer in NYC. She has both a Masters in secondary education and educational leadership. Over the past 19 years in education, she has dedicated her work to teaching middle and high school students in urban settings. Tiffany has also presented at national conferences and has published several research articles. Tiffany’s interest in student engagement and inquiry guide her coaching and research work. 

Research Assistant- Monique Stone recently earned her PhD in Language Literacy and Socio-Cultural Studies from the University of New Mexico.  Her first teaching job was with the New York City Public schools.  She has worked in schools in multiple states as well as community colleges and community based organizations.  Her teaching roles have been in reading, writing, language arts and English as a second language. Her research interests are in culturally responsive teaching, reader response theory, and supporting teachers in developing meaningful and respectful relationships with students.

Intern - Ta'ra Powell is a student at Medgar Evers College pursuing a degree in elementary education. She is also a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success, which aims to develop successful educators and leaders who will affect positive change in the world of education. She is currently a Literacy Network intern, assisting in the development of curriculum materials and instructional tools. She hopes to pursue a master's degree in Curriculum and Teaching after graduating in June 2022.