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LitTX Group Chat – March 2026

August 15, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

Want to ask a question? 

Need help with something? 

Maybe you want some new ideas or resources for your literacy program? 

Have some feedback or a request for an upcoming training session? 

Drop by this virtual session and chat with the Literacy Texas team. All literacy questions welcome!

There’s no formal agenda and no presentation – just an open time for literacy chat.

The March Group Chat will focus particularly on the upcoming Literacy Texas Annual Conference, so if you have questions about the scholarship process, being an exhibitor, the RFP, or other, we particularly encourage you to come along to this session!

As always, though, all literacy-related questions will be welcome, even if not about the conference.

Join us online on

Thursday, March 26

any time between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM (CT)

There’s no official “start” to this event, so come whenever you like – and stay for as long or as short a time as you like.

No prior registration is needed. We’re looking forward to seeing where the conversation takes us!

NOTE: This is the same as our old “Coffee With Literacy Texas” events, just with a new name.

REGISTER HERE, AND GET A CALENDAR INVITE AND THE ZOOM LINK
CLICK HERE ON MARCH 26 TO JOIN THE SESSION
  • Google Calendar
  • iCalendar
  • Outlook 365
  • Outlook Live

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

Checked/updated 1/28/2026

Tagged With: ideas

2026 Literacy Texas Annual Conference

August 14, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

Learn about the latest research in the literacy field.

Rub shoulders with experts and connect with like-minded people.

Most importantly, leave with the tools, relationships, and inspiration you need to continue making a difference.

2026 Conference Basics

Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Grapevine DFW Airport North
Street address: 2401 Bass Pro Drive, Grapevine, Texas, 76051

Our hashtag is #LitTX26

Monday, July 27, 2026: General arrival, check-in, exhibitor set-up, VIP Reception

Tuesday, July 28, 2026: Conference Day 1

Wednesday, July 29, 2026: Conference Day 2

The theme of the 2025 conference is “Literacy looks like this.”

There’s so much more to literacy than classrooms and whiteboards.

What does literacy look like in your part of the world?
How are folks in your programs linking their learning to family, work, and life outside the classroom?

There’s no one “right” way for literacy to look! We’ll showcase literacy in all its breadth, diversity, and beauty with “Literacy looks like this.”

CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE MAIN CONFERENCE PAGE

Quick guide to the 2025 conference:

conference home page
conference theme & focus
breakout sessions
sponsors & exhibitors
registration
scholarships & grants
schedule & program
conference presenters
location & venue
pre-conference
request for proposals
take a look at recent past conferences

Checked/updated 8/14/2025

Tagged With: cbo, ideas, professional development, research based

Best of Texas: Civics & Citizenship

July 24, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way.

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:

Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section, or simply scroll down the page.

  • Basic details
  • About this month’s topic
  • Guests this month
  • Online registration
  • PD Certificates
  • Special thanks

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Thursday, August 28, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CT).

The Zoom room will open at 9:50 AM.

Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins.

This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy.

ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC

In 2025, the path to U.S. citizenship is shifting. This session will explore the most recent updates, policy changes, and evolving USCIS procedures impacting lawful permanent residents in Texas.

Participants will gain practical strategies to adapt their instruction, ensure curriculum compliance, and meet the needs of diverse immigrant learners. We’ll also discuss how to navigate new challenges and help students prepare not only for the naturalization test, but for active and informed civic participation.

GUESTS THIS MONTH

Garcia Alvarez, Luis

Luis García-Alvarez
President, SEDES &
Senior Community Engagement Advisor, USAHello

Luis A. García-Alvarez immigrated to the U.S. at the start of the century to pursue his dreams and enhance the lives of Hispanic immigrants. In 2008, he founded SEDES (System for Education Empowerment and Success), where he serves as President. He also serves as the Senior Community Engagement Advisor for USAHello, helping immigrants achieve financial freedom and societal development. He holds a Master’s in Human Rights and International Law.

In 2021, he received the Hispanic Heritage Award from Houston and was named MLS Community MVP for representing the Houston Dynamo. His leadership on various advisory boards reflects his dedication to a brighter future. In his essay for the Hispanic Leaders Program, he envisions the U.S. as a cultural melting pot and an opportunity to strengthen the Hispanic community.

Host:

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker
Executive Director
Literacy Texas

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School. 
 
She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 

FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION

click here to register now

REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM

Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive, please check your junk mail!

Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements.

PD CERTIFICATES

NOTE TO WEB ADMIN: Most Best of Texas sessions will not include a PD certificate, but the longer in-depth sessions currently scheduled for 3 times a year will be the exception.

Someone who completes the full session will receive X hours of PD credit.

Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training.

SPECIAL THANKS

Luis García-Alvarez

[name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant, new line for each]

The Texas Workforce Commission

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Checked/updated 8/28/25

Tagged With: cbo, ideas

2025 Focus Group #2

July 24, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

As part of our Annual Survey, we hold focus groups with literacy folks across Texas, to hear more about what you need right now and how we can best be helpful over the coming 12 – 18 months.

We can’t promise that we can do everything you want, but our ears are open, and there are NO silly ideas! We want to hear what you need, what you want – and what would need to happen for your wildest literacy dreams to be fulfilled.

Plus, this year, we want to hear how funding uncertainty and cuts across adult education are affecting you, your program, and your community.

Check your email for an invitation!

Tagged With: cbo, data, ideas

2025 Focus Group #1

July 24, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

As part of our Annual Survey, we hold focus groups with literacy folks across Texas, to hear more about what you need right now and how we can best be helpful over the coming 12 – 18 months.

We can’t promise that we can do everything you want, but our ears are open, and there are NO silly ideas! We want to hear what you need, what you want – and what would need to happen for your wildest literacy dreams to be fulfilled.

Plus, this year, we want to hear how funding uncertainty and cuts across adult education are affecting you, your program, and your community.

Check your email for an invitation!

Tagged With: cbo, data, ideas

2025 Literacy Texas Pre-Conference

July 24, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

NEW in 2025! Pre-Conference Sessions

Join Rachel Muir and Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker for a 3-hour deep dive into specially chosen topics.

READ MORE ABOUT PRE-CONFERENCE HERE

2025 Conference Basics

Location: Embassy Suites, San Marcos, TX
Street address: 1001 E McCarty Lane, San Marcos, TX 78666

Our hashtag is #LitTX25

CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE MAIN CONFERENCE PAGE

Quick guide to the 2025 conference:

conference home page
conference theme & focus
breakout sessions
sponsors & exhibitors
registration
scholarships & grants
schedule & program
conference presenters
location & venue
pre-conference
request for proposals
take a look at recent past conferences

Checked/updated 4/9/2025

Tagged With: cbo, ideas, professional development, research based

Elevating English Proficiency through Visual Literacy

May 28, 2025 by Literacy Texas

This is a guest post by Tara Benwell, VP of Publishing at Ellii.

You can find Ellii among the exhibitors at the 2025 Literacy Texas Annual Conference.

Visual literacy is an essential life skill that complements language learning. Emily Bryson, a graphic facility expert and guest blogger with Ellii, is a strong proponent of the power of visuals. Emily frequently reminds educators how much of the information we encounter each day comes from images, symbols, signs, and diagrams.

In English language classrooms, fostering visual literacy is key to helping students navigate and understand the world around them. Visual literacy helps learners to:

  • understand main ideas from pictures before reading
  • grasp complex processes through diagrams
  • use online platforms or apps by recognizing icons
  • stay safe by interpreting signs and symbols
  • analyze meaning, think critically, and discuss opinions
  • inspire curiosity and exploration
  • communicate creatively
  • share information effectively

Did you know that Ellii originally started as a library of images? Before it was known as ESL Library—and later, Ellii—teachers subscribed to ESL Images. While teaching English in Japan, Ellii’s founder, Ben Buckwold, relied on visuals to support his lessons. When he couldn’t find the simple, engaging imagery he needed, he created his own library. You can hear the full origin story of Ellii on this episode of The Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast.

Today, Ellii is both an LMS and a content library full of ready-made lessons, courses, and visuals to keep language learners engaged, especially in those crucial emerging levels. Ellii’s Media Gallery offers a comprehensive collection of high-quality images and videos to help teachers elicit, teach, and reinforce vocabulary and grammar structures as well as spark engagement and interaction in the classroom. And the best part? The content was created specifically for ELLs.

Here are four types of visuals Ellii suggests experimenting with to elevate English proficiency:

1. Flashcards

Over the years, countless marketing experts have tried to convince Ben that the concept of a “flashcard” is outdated. However, Ellii’s founder strongly believes in classic teaching tools, including printable lessons and images, and our friends at Cambridge University Press and Assessment (CUPA) agree. At a recent TESOL session, Ventures author Gretchen Bitterlin recommended sending flashcard sets home in an envelope to help promote family literacy.

Today’s flashcards are not just printable images. Many platforms, including Ellii, offer digital vocabulary images with audio support and gamification features to go along with digital (or printable) lessons. At Ellii, flashcards are created specifically for English learners by real illustrators who understand the importance of simple, iconic imagery. Teachers can edit the text that goes with these 5,000+ images, making them a practical tool in bilingual programs or for leveling vocabulary up or down in a multilevel setting. Teachers can even get creative and make their own conversation question sets!

Flashcard Library on Ellii

2. Photo Prompts

Why do you think the popular Ventures series starts each unit with a scene called The Big Picture? CUPA author Donna Price often pulls out these detailed image scenes during teacher training sessions to reinforce the power of an image in eliciting language. Each Big Picture scene includes a critical incident, activating students’ prior knowledge and creating opportunities for thematic discussion.

Ellii does something similar with its That’s News to Me section using real photos or videos from The Associated Press. There is also a full section of Photo Prompts that can be used for a variety of activities from vocabulary building to critical thinking. As Emily Bryson points out on the Ellii blog, “Using just one image, students are prompted to describe the photo, make predictions, research the history… explore reasons” and more.

Photo Prompts on Ellii

Language Scenes are a tried-and-true method for eliciting vocabulary and assessing grammar knowledge, helping teachers identify new students’ levels and needs at intake. For the lowest-level learners, including adults preparing for CASAS STEPS, identifying vocabulary through visuals is something emerging learners need to practice in order to demonstrate proficiency.

3. Silent Clips & Video Lessons

“Sometimes the best way to get a conversation going is to stay silent,” says Emily. Silent Clips are a great way to introduce and review tricky words, including action verbs, emotions, and workplace vocabulary.

Silent Clips on Ellii

And if you want to keep your students truly engaged, video lessons are the number one recommendation, especially in those no-phone classroom zones where students are likely craving more screen time. Over the last few years, Ellii has built up its video library to include 600+ ESL videos, reinforcing everything from grammar targets and pronunciation to life and workplace skills.

4. AI-Generated Imagery

Does AI-generated imagery have a place in ELT? While Ellii is sticking with its human illustrators and photographers for now, there are countless activities that teachers and students can do to hone their prompt-engineering skills. From creating 3D dolls to spotting AI-generated errors, the language opportunities are endless. And, as Caitlin Thomas of National Geographic Learning pointed out at TESOL 2025, “AI fluency is the new digital literacy.” Have some fun! We are!

Ellii plays with AI-generated images

What Literacy Teachers Are Saying about Ellii

"Ellii is the one resource that I recommend to every new teacher. It has a wide range of materials for different student needs. Daily, I use flashcards for my newcomers and the academic resources with my higher levels. Ellii has innovated so much in the past few years and continues to improve the resources available."
Lynn
"Ellii offers great collections to use as an additional resource for younger English learners. The Word Bank lessons can be used to enhance vocabulary and language acquisition and begin the foundations for writing. My students have thoroughly enjoyed the Phonics Stories this year, and flashcards help to facilitate great discussions! A parent of one of my students has even started using Ellii to help with everyday tasks. "
Anon

More #Love4Ellii

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Filed Under: Research & Best Practice, Resources Tagged With: ideas, resources

Best of Texas: Best Practices & Research

May 28, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way.

QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:

Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section, or simply scroll down the page.

  • Basic details
  • About this month’s topic
  • Guests this month
  • Online registration
  • PD Certificates
  • Special thanks

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Thursday, July 17, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CT).

The Zoom room will open at 9:50 AM.

Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins.

This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy.

ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC

When professional development budgets are tight, it can be difficult to help every member of your team to access quality professional development.

Join us for this session where we’ll explore innovative and creative ways to maximize learning at professional development events – with a focus on the upcoming Literacy Texas conference! – and ways to ensure the learning continues even once everyone’s back in the office.

GUESTS THIS MONTH

Bauchelle, Kathryn

Kathryn Bauchelle
Communications & Training Specialist
Literacy Texas

Kathryn has worked with Literacy Texas since mid-2021 – but before that, she directed a large volunteer-based literacy program in Houston for more than a decade.

She’ll share some ideas for helping staff report back from training and other events, along with intentional ways to share information and build staff development into regular activities.

headshot placeholder

Name
Title
XY

Info

Info

Host:

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker
Executive Director
Literacy Texas

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School. 
 
She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 

FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION

click here to register now

REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM

Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive, please check your junk mail!

Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements.

PD CERTIFICATES

NOTE TO WEB ADMIN: Most Best of Texas sessions will not include a PD certificate, but the longer in-depth sessions currently scheduled for 3 times a year will be the exception.

Someone who completes the full session will receive X hours of PD credit.

Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training.

SPECIAL THANKS

[presenter]

[name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant, new line for each]

The Texas Workforce Commission

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

Checked/updated 6/24/25

Tagged With: cbo, ideas, research based

Coffee With Literacy Texas

May 15, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

Want to ask a question?

Need some help, or want some new ideas or resources for your literacy program?

Have some feedback or a request for an upcoming training session?

Drop by this virtual session and chat with the Literacy Texas team. All literacy questions welcome!

There’s no agenda and no presentation – just an open time for literacy chat.

Join us online on Tuesday, July 8, any time between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM Central (there’s no official “start” to this event, so come whenever you like – and stay for as long or as short a time as you like).

No prior registration is needed. We’re looking forward to sharing a cup of (virtual) coffee with you and seeing where the conversation takes us!

Click here on July 8 to join the session
  • Google Calendar
  • iCalendar
  • Outlook 365
  • Outlook Live

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

Checked/updated 5/15/25

Tagged With: ideas

Best of Texas: Literacy in Corrections

April 23, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way.

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:

Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section, or simply scroll down the page.

  • Basic details
  • About this month’s topic
  • Guests this month
  • Resources
  • Online registration
  • Special thanks

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Thursday, June 26, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CT).

The Zoom room will open at 9:50 AM.

Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins.

This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy.

ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC

Around 75% of people currently in prison have low literacy skills (source). But when people who are in prison participate in education programs, they are 43% less likely to re-offend, compared to people who do not participate (source).

Education while in the corrections system makes a huge difference to what happens when adults leave the system. The Windham School District administers educational programs within the corrections system for the state of Texas, and prepares students to be contributing members of their communities through robust and innovative program opportunities.

Join us online and learn more!

GUESTS THIS MONTH

Our guests this month are all from the Windham School District. Windham is a school district that provides educational services to students in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The district has its headquarters in Huntsville.

Windham is one of the largest correctional education systems in the United States, providing educational programs and services in most Department of Criminal Justice facilities.

The goals of the district in educating its students are to:

  1. Reduce recidivism;
  2. Reduce the cost of confinement or imprisonment;
  3. Increase the success of former students in obtaining and maintaining employment; and
  4. Provide an incentive to students to behave in positive ways during confinement or imprisonment.
Hartman, Kristina

Kristina J. Hartman
Superintendent
Windham School District

Kristina J. Hartman has served as superintendent of Windham School District since 2019, operating 100 schools in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Superintendent Hartman’s 22-year career in education in corrections has included a variety of roles in both Florida and Texas.

Her focus areas include education in corrections policy related to terminology, identification and removal of unnecessary employment barriers, access to higher education and award of credits for prior learning, digital literacy and technology advancement. 

Ms. Hartman earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Political Science from Baylor University, Master of Arts in Special Education and Education Specialist in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida. Superintendent Hartman previously served as the President of the Council of Directors for the Correctional Education Association and is a board member for the Texas Corrections Association and Board of Governors member for the American Correctional Association.

Outside of work, Ms. Hartman enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, swimming, and attending live music events. 

O'Banion, Robert

Robert O’Banion
Chief Financial Officer
Windham School District

Robert O’Banion is the Chief Financial Officer for Windham School District.  He started working for the district in 2012 and currently oversees the areas of Information Technology, Human Resources, Operational Support and Financial Services for the entire district across Texas.

Mr. O’Banion has a bachelor’s of Agricultural Systems Management from Texas A&M University and a Masters of Business Administration from Sam Houston State University.  After college he worked in corporate America within the lumber industry before changing careers and accepting a position in 2008 with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice within their Business and Finance Division where he received experience in government finance. 

When not at work Mr. O’Banion enjoys spending time in state and national parks, working on the family ranch, and camping and backpacking adventures with his wife and daughters.

Pickett, Luann

Luann Pickett
Department Director of Instruction
Windham School District

Luann Pickett is the department director of instruction for Windham School District. She has been an integral part of Windham School District since 1990, dedicating over 35 years to fostering student success.

Throughout her tenure, Ms. Pickett has served in various roles across nine campuses district-wide, including study aide, testing specialist, teacher, assistant principal, college coordinator, campus principal and most recently, East Texas regional principal.

In every role she has held, Ms. Pickett has always demonstrated unwavering dedication to Windham. In February 2025, she was promoted to department director of instruction, overseeing the Assessment, Advisement and Records; Special Education and Federal Programs; Library Services and Professional Development departments. Ms. Pickett holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Stephen F. Austin University and a Master of Education from Sam Houston State University.

Committed to Windham’s mission of educational excellence, as regional principal, Ms. Pickett successfully cultivated a well-rounded team of principals capable of advancing within the district; three of her former principals now serve as regional principals themselves.

Dominique, Stephanie

Dr. Stephanie Dominique
Federal Programs Administrator
Windham School District

Dr. Stephanie Dominique is a seasoned education leader and lifelong learner with over 20 years of experience, primarily in special education. Her work centers on advancing equity in both educational access and leadership development. She has consistently led inclusive practices that support students with diverse learning and life experiences across public and alternative education settings.

Dr. Dominique currently serves as the Special Education and Federal Programs Administrator for Windham School District, which operates within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Since 2020, she has directed initiatives that promote compliance and equitable access to special education and Title I services for the student population.

Her academic credentials include a B.S. in Criminal Justice, a Master’s in Counseling, a second Master’s in Educational Administration, and a Ph.D. in Leadership in Educational Administration with a focus on special education and equity-driven systems change.

In addition to her leadership role, Dr. Dominique mentors youth in residential and juvenile justice placements, supporting their development of leadership, self-advocacy, and self-determination skills. Her work reflects a deep commitment to dismantling barriers and empowering marginalized individuals to reach their full potential.

Her purpose is rooted in building systems that elevate all learners and create sustainable, inclusive pathways for long-term success.

Watts, Ted

Ted Watts
Career and Technical Education Administrator
Windham School District

Ted Watts has been with Windham School District for 24 years, where he has dedicated himself to providing second chances through education. With 21 years of experience in the construction industry, including owning his own business, Mr. Watts transitioned to education in 2001 to pursue his passion for helping others. He spent 14 years as a career and technical education (CTE) teacher, sharing his industry knowledge while understanding the challenges faced by students pursuing careers in the field.

In 2014, Mr. Watts became a CTE field specialist, offering guidance to fellow educators. Then, in 2018, he was promoted to CTE department administrator. His diverse background has shaped his perspective, emphasizing the importance of skills and opportunities for success.

Mr. Watts is deeply committed to creating transformative learning experiences that empower individuals to reach their full potential.

Koonce, Ashley

Ashley Koonce
College and Career Readiness Administrator
Windham School District

Ashley Koonce joined Windham School District in March of 2022 and now serves as the College and Career Readiness Administrator.

Ms. Koonce has a diverse background spanning over 15 years in corrections, rehabilitation and education. She currently leads a team who facilitate occupational licensing efforts, assist with employer and community partner engagement and coordinate postsecondary collaboration. Ms. Koonce holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Business Administration, as well as a Master of Science in Criminal Justice all from Sam Houston State University.

Host:

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker
Executive Director
Literacy Texas

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School. 
 
She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 

RESOURCES

Thanks so much to the Windham team for sharing these resources!

  • PPT Presentation
  • Operating Procedures – Students With Disabilities
  • Individualized Study Guide

FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION

click here to register now

REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM

Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive, please check your junk mail!

Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements.

SPECIAL THANKS

The Windham School District

[name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant, new line for each]

The Texas Workforce Commission

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Checked/updated 6/26/25

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Mailing Address:
Literacy Texas
P.O. Box 111
Texarkana, TX 75504
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  • Home
  • What We Do
    • Annual Conference
      • Registration
      • Scholarships & Grants
      • Theme & Focus
      • Request for Proposals (RFP)
      • Sponsors & Exhibitors
      • Location & Venue
      • Schedule & Program
      • Breakout Sessions
      • Conference Presenters
      • Past Conferences
    • Regional Symposia
    • What Leaders Need
    • Best of Texas
    • The Expert Edge
    • Advocacy
      • National Adult Education & Family Literacy Week
    • Annual Survey
  • Why Literacy?
    • Defining Literacy
    • Literacy Facts
    • Literacy & the Economy
  • Calendar
    • Literacy Texas Events
    • Literacy Calendar
  • Resources
    • Nonprofit Administration
    • Program Structure
    • Classroom Instruction
    • Grants, Funding, & Rebates
    • Organizations, Groups, & Media
    • Plain Language
  • Connect
    • Find a Program
    • Ways to Give
    • Blog
    • Newsletter
    • Contact Us
  • About
    • History
    • Mission
    • Board of Directors
    • Meet the Team
  • Impact
    • Celebrating Students
      • 2024 Student Hall of Fame
      • 2023 Student Hall of Fame
      • 2022 Student Hall of Fame
    • Celebrating Volunteers
      • 2024 Volunteer Hall of Fame
      • 2023 Volunteer Hall of Fame
      • 2022 Volunteer Hall of Fame
    • Learner Stories
    • Testimonials