What Strong Reading Looks Like in Secondary Classrooms: From Guessing to Grounded

About the Presenters

Sharon Alonso is a seasoned educator with over 20 years of experience in K–12 education and currently serves as a Coordinator of Accelerated Programs for Hillsborough County Public Schools. In this district-level role, she supports the implementation and expansion of advanced academic programs, working closely with school leaders and instructional teams. Sharon previously served as a K–12 writing supervisor and a district writing coach for middle grades, where she focused on strengthening literacy instruction and student achievement. With more than 15 years of experience as a professional learning writer and facilitator, she has led professional learning in curriculum design and effective pedagogy for educators across the country. Based in Tampa, Florida, Sharon is committed to strengthening instructional practices and creating more opportunities for students to succeed through meaningful, engaging learning experiences.

As a writer weaving tales on the page and screen, Nimat Jones finds joy in crafting stories and absorbing them as an avid reader. Her love for the arts extends beyond literature to visual and cultural exploration during her global travels, where she seeks inspiration through outdoor adventures from serene shores to rugged peaks. Nimat’s dedication to education spans two decades across roles in teaching English, coaching, professional learning facilitation, and instructional leadership. Consulting and collaborating with organizations like the College Board and Zinc Learning Labs have enriched her perspective, deepening her passion for advancing adolescent literacy and equitable environments that empower both students and adults. As Nimat embraces a new chapter in international education, she eagerly anticipates immersing herself in UAE culture as the Director of Teaching and Learning at Dunecrest American School.

Brenda Aston is an experienced educator of 30 years, with experience as a middle school classroom teacher and instructional coach. She currently works for the Tacoma Public Schools, teaching language arts as a middle school teacher in a high-poverty, low-achieving school. Her interests include student motivation, gifted education, and instructional strategies that increase engagement in high-poverty environments. Brenda is seeking ways to improve secondary reading instruction with historically low-achieving populations.