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Lynn Givens
Educational Consultant, Developer of Reading Intervention Program
Professional Background
Lynn Givens is a distinguished educator with over four decades of dedicated service in the field of reading instruction and teacher education. With a noteworthy career that emphasizes intervention strategies for struggling readers, Lynn has been instrumental in shaping the educational landscape in Florida and beyond. As the former Director of Intervention at the Florida Center for Reading Research, she played a pivotal role in providing professional development and intervention training for teachers across the state. Her hands-on experience has equipped her with the expertise necessary to offer innovative solutions for educators and students alike.
Throughout her career, Lynn has taught undergraduate courses in reading and English/language arts at the prestigious Florida State University’s School of Teacher Education. Her passion for education goes beyond traditional classrooms, as she currently serves as an instructor and facilitator for online teacher endorsement courses in reading. Additionally, she is the creator and facilitator of the renowned 'Connect to Comprehension' course at the Orton-Gillingham Online Academy, further expanding her commitment to improving reading education.
Trained in the Orton-Gillingham method, Lynn has a strong background in supporting dyslexic students and other struggling readers. After spending eight impactful years at the Schenck School in Atlanta, she established a solid foundation in utilizing explicit instruction techniques to help students overcome reading difficulties. Her unwavering goal is to deliver high-quality instruction tailored to close the gaps in literacy for students who face challenges in reading, as well as to empower teachers with the strategies to achieve this.
Education and Achievements
Lynn's educational credentials include a Master of Education (M.Ed.) with a specialization in the Teaching of Individuals with Specific Learning Disabilities. She has studied at several prestigious institutions, including the University of North Carolina, the University of Florida, and Georgia State University. Lynn's extensive education underpins her deep understanding of reading instruction methodologies and the complexities of learning disabilities.
In her quest to enhance literacy education, Lynn has authored several impactful instructional materials. Her published work includes the 'Connect to Comprehension' reading program and its accompanying Extension Kit, alongside the innovative 'Phonics Games for Fluency'. These materials have been designed to provide educators with the resources needed to engage and uplift struggling readers. The 'Connect to Comprehension' program is now utilized in 38 states and several countries, reaffirming her influence in the educational sphere.
Achievements
Among Lynn's significant contributions to reading education is the availability of virtual training for her intervention program through the Center for Literacy Learning. This platform offers extensive professional development modules designed to enhance teachers' knowledge of the fundamental components of reading. By making these resources accessible, Lynn is actively contributing to the professional growth of educators and the academic success of their students.
As a testimony to her expertise, Lynn has held various influential positions throughout her career. She has served as a curriculum specialist while self-employed, and as an educational consultant at Connect to Comprehension. Moreover, her roles have encompassed visiting professor and course developer positions at the Florida State University School of Teacher Education, in addition to various curriculum development and facilitation positions at institutions such as NCS Pearson, Inc., and Beacon Educator.
Lynn's commitment to excellence and her ability to generate measurable outcomes in reading proficiency define her role in the field of education. Her innovative approaches and tireless efforts to mentor future educators ensure her lasting impact on students and teachers alike.
