MSED Literacy Specialist Co-Presents at the 2016 Annual International Literacy Association Professional Conference

(SPARKILL, NY – Wednesday, July 27, 2016) — Terri Komar (Closter, NJ), a graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas College’s School of Education, co-presented with Dr. Michael Shaw, Professor of Education at the College, at the International Literacy Association Professional Conference in Boston (MA) on July 9, 2016. The International Literacy Association, based in the United States, works to enhance literacy instruction through research and professional development around the world.

The session titled, “The Transformative Power of Literacy Through Real-World Learning: Passion, Motivation, Engagement, and Empowerment as Keys for School and Life Success,” focused on deepening literacy experiences for all students including struggling readers and writers. It included examples of activities used in STAC’s Summer Literacy Program. These activities make a positive impact on children’s progress in reading.

Terri Komar is a 2015 graduate of the Master of Science in Education (MSEd.) in Literacy program and is already working as a reading specialist and literacy coach at Slocum Skewes School in Ridgefield (NJ). She has also begun coursework in the on-line Teacher Leadership Certificate program which complements the organizational and leadership skills learned in the MSEd. Literacy program.

The School of Education continues to provide opportunities for students in initial preparation programs and advanced programs to participate in professional conferences. These opportunities enable students to develop research skills, develop skills as educational leaders, and also widen their professional contacts.

For more information about our programs in teacher education, contact the School of Education at 845-398-4150/4158 or schoolofeducation@stac.edu.

St. Thomas Aquinas College is an independent liberal arts college located on 60 acres in Rockland County, NY which provides education at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The College’s 2,800 full and part time students can choose from more than 100 different majors, minors, specializations, and dual degree programs across three Schools: Arts & Sciences, Business, and Education. The College is recognized by U.S. News & World Report in the Top-Tier for Regional Universities, by Colleges of Distinction in both its New York and Catholic editions, by Affordable Colleges Online as a top College in New York for Return on Investment, and is included as a Military Friendly School®. St. Thomas Aquinas College is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; its School of Education is accredited by National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE); and its School of Business is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). For more information, visit www.stac.edu.