An extra teacher is always a gift, especially when working with young authors. But what if we looked for teachers within those tiny writers?
Author: Leah Thomas
Leah Thomas is passionate about honoring student voice and identity through writing workshop and early literacy. She believes that for children to see themselves as writers, they must be trusted with autonomy and supported as they explore their writing processes. By centering intentional identity development, foundational skills instruction, and a brave classroom community, Leah nurtures young writers as they grow in both skill and craft. The Gateway Writing Project strengthens her belief that teachers who write are better writing teachers. Leah slices at leahthomaswrites.wordpress.com, and you can follow her on LinkedIn and BlueSky: @LeahThomasWrites.
Engage Writers at the Beginning of the Year with Base Training
At the beginning of the school year, take time before launching your first unit to allow students to settle in to writing workshop. This time helps you learn about students, build their confidence, and teach workshop routines.
Graphic Organizers Limit Creativity: Resetting Our Workshop Practices
Many teachers assign graphic organizers to help students learn about structure and organization. But do these organizers actually impede authentic writing and student agency? Read about why Leah chose to stop mandating graphic organizers, and some tips for letting go!

