In her role at Sawyer Elementary, Ellen learned of Boundless Readers (then known as the Rochelle Lee Fund). "My teachers were telling me we needed literacy training. We needed to know how to help students to read and to continue reading." A fierce advocate for deeper student learning and staff collaboration, basic tenets of the professional development programs provided by Boundless Readers, she urged some of her new teachers to apply for Rochelle Lee Teacher Awards.
"The reason I'm so devoted to, interested in, and passionate about Boundless Readers is that it helped me to bring much more in-depth, vigorous learning to my students based around literature and thinking. And just as important, it took our staff from a 'just close your door and get your job done' mentality, to a collaborative school community that really worked together and learned together -- the adults as well as the students."
At one point, Ellen had 35 teachers on staff with Rochelle Lee Teacher Awards from Boundless Readers -- all working in collaboration. "We learned from Boundless Readers that you have to model passion and enthusiasm around literacy and reading. When teachers are passionate, students catch the spirit. That's what Boundless Readers is all about."
Having developed a great respect for its work over the years, Ellen became a Boundless Readers facilitator after she retired. She was later invited to sit on its Board of Directors. She wholeheartedly agreed and has served on the board's Program Committee since 2008.
A Boundless Reader: Ellen Reiter
Ellen Reiter is a Chicago Public School alumnus herself and always wanted to teach in the heart of the city. So when she graduated from college in 1965, she began her career in the Chicago Public School system. She took a job at Marshall High School where she spent 20 years as a teacher in the English Department and, for six years, as department chairperson. She later served as principal at Sawyer Elementary School on the southwest side for another 15 years. Even after retirement, Ellen continues to devote herself to the Chicago education community by serving as a coach for New Leaders for New Schools.
Retired CPS Principal
School Achievement Coach, New Leaders for New Schools
Board Member, Boundless Readers
Book Fave: Life Doesn't Frighten Me, Maya Angelou
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