E. Francine Guastello

E. Francine Guastello serves as Associate Professor & Literacy Coordinator for Master’s and Advanced Certificate Programs in the Department of Education Specialties at St. John’s University. With 44 years of professional experience spanning elementary/junior high teaching, elementary school principalship, diagnostic work in St. John’s reading clinic, and adjunct/full-time faculty roles since 1999, she brings extensive practical expertise to her academic position.

Her academic credentials include:

• Ed.D. in Educational Leadership & Curriculum & Instruction from St. John’s University
• Professional Diploma in Administration and Supervision from St. John’s University
• M.S. in Reading Specialist (N–12) from St. John’s University
• B.S. in Elementary Education (N–6) from St. John’s University

Guastello specializes in multi-sensory language learning approaches and developing diagnostic instructional strategies for diverse learners. Her research focuses on evidence-based techniques for English Language Learners, dyslexic populations across age groups, individuals with mild-to-severe learning disabilities, and disenfranchised women seeking literacy advancement. This work bridges theoretical frameworks with classroom implementation through practical teaching methodologies.

Her notable recognition includes:

• Fellow of the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators

As Literacy Coordinator, Guastello has authored 11 departmental programs and one for Curriculum & Instruction. She served eight years as department chair and participated in university committees for two decades. Her program development work demonstrates sustained commitment to curriculum innovation despite no explicitly mentioned grant funding. The reading clinic diagnostic work conducted over 15 years forms the foundation of her applied research in literacy intervention.