About the Presenters

Alicia Atwood is the Pre-K R.I.S.E. Specialist and Content Coordinator at the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE), with 30 years of experience in early childhood education. For 25 years, she taught kindergarten, cherishing every moment. Now, she ensures preschool content aligns with kindergarten state standards, preparing young learners for the journey ahead. Since 2020, Alicia has served as the R.I.S.E. Reading Specialist, crafting engaging monthly newsletters for ADE, offering valuable insights and activities to boost literacy skills. She spearheaded the Pre-K R.I.S.E. Initiative, providing top-notch resources and training for preschool educators statewide. Alicia excels in coaching and professional development, fueled by her passion for reading and belief that literacy begins at birth. Her ultimate goal is to empower all children to become lifelong readers, equipped with the skills needed to thrive.

Lori Bridges serves as Director of Early Childhood Programs at the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE), overseeing the Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) program and leading the Pre-K RISE initiative to enhance early literacy development. With over 30 years of experience in education, including roles as an elementary teacher, curriculum coach, and administrator, Lori brings a wealth of expertise to her current position. She holds a master’s degree in educational leadership and curriculum and administration from Arkansas Tech University. Lori’s dedication to advocating for children and families drives her commitment to ensuring high-quality Pre-K services throughout Arkansas. Her leadership aims to provide essential support for emergent literacy and educational success from the earliest stages of a child’s learning journey.

Dr. Deann M. Collins leads the Maryland State Department of Education’s charge to accelerate student achievement as the Deputy State Superintendent of Teaching and Learning. Dr. Collins has worked in the field of education for more than two decades. Most recently she served as the Director of the Division of Early Childhood and Title I Programs, and Recovery Funds for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). She previously served as the Executive Director to the Deputy Superintendent for MCPS where she assisted in aligning the school system’s goals, strategic planning, and major initiatives; analyzed data to inform strategic planning; and coordinated and facilitated professional learning for executive leaders. She has also served as a classroom teacher, staff development teacher, Pre-K-12 school improvement specialist, assistant principal, and principal. Dr. Collins is well known for her passion and interest in transformational leadership, equity, and school improvement. She earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Bowie State University.

Julie Sealine is an Implementation Specialist with Really Great Reading. She holds degrees in elementary, early childhood, and early childhood special education. She is a certified early childhood and early childhood special education teacher. She has more than 10 years’ experience in the classroom, as a literacy coach, a university instructor, and state department consultant. Now, as an Implementation Specialist, Julie has supported thousands of educators and their schools throughout the country and provided literacy professional development to more than 50,000 educators worldwide to grow knowledge and practice of effective literacy instruction.