From Pages to Possibilities: A Novel Approach to Amplifying Joyful Latine Voices
Dr. Cindi Koudelka, District Curriculum Coordinator, Fieldcrest CUSD 6, Minonk and Adjunct Professor, Aurora University, Aurora; Melissa Wheeler, Grade 7 Teacher, Mattoon CUSD 2, Mattoon; and Dr. Julie Hoffman, Secondary Teacher Instructional Leader for Literacy and Social Studies, Springfield Public Schools D186, Springfield and Adjunct Professor and Teacher Instructional Leader, University of Illinois, SpringfieldM-201
Representation matters—and joyful Latine stories transform classrooms for all students. This session shares fresh, creative ways to bring vibrant Latine books into novel studies and classroom libraries. Participants will learn about high-quality books featuring Latine representation, activities to support them, and actionable ideas to amplify student voice, pride, and literacy through authentic voices.