Gail Saunders-Smith

Dr. Gail Saunders-Smith is an Associate Professor at Youngstown State University (YSU), specializing in Literacy Education. She teaches in the online M.S.Ed. Teacher Education – Curriculum and Instruction – Literacy program, focusing on courses like Organizing and Managing Diverse Literacy Environments and Practicum: Coaching for Effective Literacy Instruction. Her expertise includes reading comprehension, curriculum design, and teacher training.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction – The University of Akron (1994)
• M.S. in Administration & Supervision – YSU (1980)
• M.A. in Early Childhood Education – Kent State University (1977)
• B.S. in Early Childhood Education – Kent State University (1974)

Research Interests: Dr. Saunders-Smith emphasizes literacy development, classroom management strategies, and the role of teacher talk in fostering student engagement. She advocates for reflective teaching practices, drawing from frameworks like Cambourne's Conditions of Learning.

Publications: She has authored 55 children's books, three major literacy education books (listed above), and numerous articles. Her work focuses on practical instructional methods for improving literacy outcomes.

Awards: None explicitly listed, but her publications reflect significant contributions to literacy education.

Advising & Grants: No specific advisees or grants mentioned, but her courses emphasize collaborative learning and professional development among educators. She advises students to prioritize diligence and critical thinking in their studies.

Labs/Teams: Not explicitly mentioned, though her work aligns with YSU’s educational initiatives in literacy and teacher training.