Kat Theodore
Kathleen Theodore works with the Southeast Comprehensive Center (SECC) to build the capacity of state and regional agencies in assisting schools and districts with implementing the programs and goals of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. In this work, she focuses on curriculum and instruction, particularly the Common Core State Standards, effective literacy practices, early childhood education, and professional development to improve literacy outcomes in districts and schools. Theodore's work includes assisting school districts and state education agencies with best practices in language and literacy development. In addition, she has supported the implementation of an Early Reading First program by providing technical assistance and professional development.
Theodore works extensively with states and school districts to improve literacy outcomes by providing technical assistance and professional development in scientifically based reading instruction, effective interventions for struggling readers, and the implementation of the Common Core State Standards. She has also assisted states in her region with developing their preK-12 literacy plans.
Theodore has presented at various conferences, such as the International Reading Association (IRA) Conference and the National Reading First Conference. In addition to national conferences, she has provided numerous professional development sessions on reading and literacy practices for state education agencies and school districts. Her expertise in designing and conducting professional development has led to increased professional learning opportunities for administrators, reading coaches, and teachers.
Theodore has worked for the Louisiana Department of Education's Region I Education Service Center, where she coordinated regional and statewide Reading First professional development activities and provided extensive follow-up through mentoring and coaching. Previously, she worked in the New Orleans Public Schools for 24 years. During her career there, Theodore served in various roles, including classroom teacher, staff developer, and district reading facilitator. Through her work as a staff developer and a district reading facilitator, she provided professional development, coaching, and mentoring to elementary, middle, and high school teachers.