Trusting Readers with Dr. Jennifer Scoggin and Hannah Schneewind

Dr. Erin Bailey talks with Dr. Jennifer Scoggin and Hannah Schneewind, founders of Trusting Readers and authors of Trusting Readers: Powerful Practices for Independent Reading. The duo shares their journeys from classroom teachers to literacy consultants and explains why trust—in teachers, students, and the independent reading process itself—is central to their philosophy. They break down the four essential components of effective independent reading: time, choice, talk, and teacher support, emphasizing that independent reading is an instructional time, not just "kids with books." The conversation covers practical strategies for families to cultivate reading habits at home, the powerful connection between reading and writing, and how reading identity shapes young learners. Both guests reflect on how reading inspires connection—with characters, with loved ones, and within classroom communities.About Dr. Jennifer Scoggin:Dr. Jennifer Scoggin has been a teacher, author, speaker, curriculum writer, and literacy consultant.  Jennifer’s interest in the evolving identities of both students and teachers and her growing obsession with children’s literature led her to and informs her work. Jen began her career teaching first and second grades in Harlem, New York. In her current role as a literacy consultant, Jennifer collaborates with teachers to create engaging literacy opportunities for children.  She holds a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Teachers College, Columbia University and has previously published two books about literacy instruction and life in the classroom. Jen lives in Connecticut with her two children, her husband, and her dog.About Hannah Schneewind:Hannah Schneewind has been a teacher, staff developer, curriculum writer, keynote speaker and national literacy consultant. She brings with her over 25 years of experience to the education world. Hannah’s interest in student and teacher agency and her belief in the power of books informs her work with schools. Hannah often works close to home, in Connecticut and New York. She also frequently travels across the United States.Hannah began her career as a first grade teacher at P.S. 321 in Brooklyn, New York, and her classroom was used as a model classroom for teachers around the city and country. The trust the administrators placed in her along with the culture of collaboration in the school formed her belief  in the power and possibilities of schools.Hannah lives in Connecticut with her three children, her husband, and the deer who eat her garden each summer.Links:Trusting Readers website: Trusting ReadersTrusting Readers Book: Trusting Readers by Jennifer Scoggin, Hannah Schneewind. PowerfulLinkedIn: (23) Trusting Readers LLC: Overview | LinkedIn