Cortland Reading and Writing Collaborative

The purpose of the Cortland Reading and Writing Collaborative is to make a sustained and positive difference in the literacy success of primary and intermediate children and teachers by providing high quality, reflective professional development through SUNY Cortland's Literacy Department graduate program. Headed by Phyllis Litzenberger, Literacy Specialist, the program integrates research-based strategies and practices developed and implemented by faculties of SUNY Cortland and the Cortland Enlarged City School District. This collaboration provides direct, continuous, and sustained faculty exchanges, resource-sharing, and funded research projects through a literacy coaching model. Presently,  Cortland City teachers are involved in this extended learning community to improve upon and even develop new practices for literacy education.

	This collaborative combines theory with practice. Research-based teaching practices are studied, implemented, and critiques by peers. Teachers model their literacy practices on information received by the instructor and in protocol sesssions. Much dialogue and reflection takes place among participants to encourage student achievement.
	Students engage in literacy through an organized learning environment of managed and independent learning.