April

5th, 2016
To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing in reference to Lauren Caturano who is an Elementary
Education teacher candidate at Elon University. Lauren has been an exceptional
student in our program and more specifically in my Explorations Seminar, this past
fall. This inquiry-based seminar is designed to give teacher candidates the necessary
knowledge, skills, and dispositions to explore issues pertinent to effective education
in the 21st century. This course provides opportunities for candidates to engage in
wide range reading, intensive writing, critical analysis, respectful debate and
thoughtful discussion. Candidates become familiar with the School Improvement
Plan (SIP) process and the concept of a Professional Learning Community (PLC),
along with the facilitation of a PLC in order to demonstrate leadership and
collaboration skills.
Throughout this process, Lauren played a large role in helping to facilitate
her groups project, which promoted literacy in four local schools. Her group
secured an internal grant to purchase high quality literature for Kindergarten, first,
and second graders. They also created bi-lingual bookmarks and a website to help
inform parents about best practices with regards to supporting literacy
development at home. Lauren was primarily responsible for researching literacy
strategies to support literacy at home. She also assisted with designing and
launching the website with this information. The website was made available to
families through a link on the bookmark. The website has had multiple visits, is well
designed, and helps families to know how to support their childrens development
at home.
Lauren has a strong rapport with her peers and faculty within the School of
Education. She communicates and maintains effective strategies when collaborating
with others. She is punctual and always exhibits professional dispositions on and off
of campus. Lauren is a mature, reflective pre-service teacher who continuously
evaluates herself to see how she can continue to grow and learn.

Respectfully,


Marna K. Winter, M. Ed
Lecturer
Program Coordinator of Elementary Education
School of Education
Elon University