Turning District Priorities Into Daily Practice: What It Takes to Make Initiatives Work

About the Presenters

Leandra Cleveland is a District K–4 Math Specialist for Bentonville Schools, where she has served for 21 years and currently leads the district’s math coaching efforts. A Bentonville graduate, she began her career as a math teacher before moving into central office roles, including Instructional Technology Specialist and Director of Assessment and Data Management. In her current role, Leandra mentors math coaches, designs professional learning, and supports the implementation of high-quality instructional materials to strengthen consistency across classrooms. She is passionate about examining student thinking, analyzing data, and helping educators deliver strong math instruction that leads to meaningful learning. Outside of work, Leandra enjoys spending time with her family, including her five children.

Bonnie Bedford is a District K–4 Literacy Specialist for Bentonville Schools with 20 years in education and extensive experience in coaching and instructional support. She began her career in kindergarten and second grade, where she developed a strong foundation in early literacy instruction. Bonnie has supported districtwide shifts toward evidence-based literacy practices, partnering with school teams to implement high-quality instructional materials and strengthen instructional strategies. She designs and facilitates professional learning and works closely with educators to use student data and work to guide decisions and improve outcomes. She is deeply committed to helping all students become confident readers and writers. Outside of school, Bonnie enjoys running, spending time with her Great Dane, and cheering on her kids at sporting events.

Mandy Oyler is a K–4 Math and Science Instructional Coach for Bentonville Schools, with 15 years in education. She spent a decade as a primary teacher before transitioning into coaching, where she now supports teachers in strengthening math and science instruction. Mandy focuses on building clarity around learning standards and helping educators understand how concepts develop across grade levels. She partners with teachers to implement high-quality instructional materials, facilitates professional learning, and supports intervention efforts through data-informed practices. She is passionate about helping both students and teachers develop strong analytical thinking skills. In her free time, Mandy enjoys reading, spending time outdoors, and being with her family.

About the Moderator

Connie Warren, M.Ed., is an educator-turned-marketer with nearly 30 years of experience in K–12 education. Before stepping into her role as Sr. Marketing Manager at BookNook, she served as an instructional coach, summer school principal, trainer, and curriculum coordinator, with a strong focus on supporting struggling learners. Today, Connie blends her education leadership experience with a passion for storytelling, creating research-based content that helps district leaders examine challenges, reflect on data, and communicate effective strategies that drive student achievement. She frequently partners with education leaders to highlight real-world practices that support meaningful outcomes for students. Outside of work, Connie enjoys writing children’s stories, hiking, and spending time in her garden.