First Grade Wisdom

Join expert educators Laura Arledge and Tiaya Daniels for a deep dive into who 1st graders are, what they need, and how parents can use specific strategies to connect with their children, help them thrive, and capitalize on this fun time of childhood learning. For resources mentioned in this podcast, check out bowbendconsulting.com Bios: Until her recent retirement, Laura Arledge taught Pre-First and First Grade at The Westminster Schools for 25 years. After earning a BS-ED and MED – Early Childhood Education from the University of Georgia, she began her career by working in elementary education for five years in the Gwinnett County Public School System. She then joined the preschool programs at Peachtree Presbyterian Church and The Cathedral of St. Phillip while starting her family. During her time at Westminster, Laura has been recognized as an outstanding member of the faculty, respected by her peers and loved by her students. She received the Schoen Family Award in recognition for her passion displayed in working with children and their families, and the School Family Award for Excellence in Teaching. In addition, Laura completed special instruction and training in the Reggio Emilia teaching method held at the prestigious Loris Malaguzzi International Centre in Reggio Emilia, Italy. Laura and her husband enjoy traveling, cooking, college football and spending time with their family, five sons and six grandchildren. Tiaya Daniels is an educator with experience teaching grades K-8. She is passionate about developing her students' language and literacy skills, in particular. Tiaya has a vast wealth of knowledge relating to professional learning, having taught in Atlanta Public Schools and various private schools globally, including in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ethiopia, and Singapore. Tiaya recently completed her doctorate in curriculum and instruction with a focus on collective teacher efficacy and continues to advocate for best practices for the unique needs of her students.