Anna McNulty Taylor

Anna McNulty Taylor is a Lecturer in Literacy Education at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. She specializes in K-12 literacy practices, focusing on teachers' decision-making and the impact of Science of Reading discourse. Her work emphasizes culturally sustaining pedagogy and equity in education. Prior to her Ph.D., Taylor spent 13 years as a teacher and instructional coach in St. Louis, Missouri, working in under-resourced schools. She holds a B.A. in Philosophy from Grinnell College, an M.Ed. from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.

Her research interests include disciplinary literacy in English Language Arts (ELA), the complexities of implementing literacy frameworks in diverse classrooms, and the role of educators in fostering equitable learning environments. Taylor’s teaching philosophy centers on building joyful, inclusive classroom communities and preparing educators to address systemic inequities in K-12 systems.

Notable awards include the St. Louis Public Schools Supporting School Leader of the Year (2019), two Pettus Awards for Excellence in Teaching (2009, 2014), and the Sue Fisher Teacher of the Year Award (2009). She has also secured grants supporting her research during her doctoral studies.

Taylor’s professional experience includes roles as an instructional coach, school leader, and teacher in St. Louis, alongside her current academic appointments. Her work bridges practical classroom experience with scholarly inquiry, aiming to empower educators to create transformative learning spaces.