About

All opinions expressed on this blog are mine and do not reflect that of my employer.

Bio

Shaelynn Farnsworth is a leader in the convergence between literacy and technology. As High School teacher she redefined her English classroom as not only a place to learn about literature but also explore how technology is shaping the future of communications. She continues this exploration as a School Improvement Consultant in Iowa. There her primary focus is on technology, literacy and authentic instruction, providing support to schools in Planning and Implementation of Initiatives, Data Collection, Professional Development , School Improvement Plans, and Walk-through development.

Shaelynn is a Google Certified Innovator and regularly provides professional development to educators around the country on the impact Google tools can have on student learning and instruction. She is also a Certified Project-Based Learning Educator from the Buck Institute and has taken part in Jim Knight Coaching Training.

Shaelynn gives back to the education community by regularly presenting at the Iowa 1-to-1 Conference, the Iowa Technology Conference, FETC, BLC and other conferences around the country. She has been featured in T.H.E Journal, SmartBrief, US News, the NY TImes Learning Network and other publications.

She has a Master’s Degree in English from the University of Northern Iowa along with a Bachelor’s of Liberal Arts Degree in Education with a minor in Coaching also from the University of Northern Iowa. Education

University of Northern Iowa, 2000, Bachelor’s of Liberal Arts Degree, Coaching minor
University of Northern Iowa, 2012, Master’s Degree in English

Experience

School Improvement Consultant, Iowa 2012-Present
- Primary focus on Technology, Literacy and Authentic Intellectual Work. Provide assistance to schools in Planning and Implementation of Initiatives, Data Collection, Professional Development , School Improvement Plans, MTSS, Walk-through development
English Teacher, BCLUW High School, Conrad, Iowa 2000 – 2013
- 5 years experience as a 1:1 Educator
- 9th English – Introduction to Literature – a study of literature (short stories, poetry, plays, etc.), creative writing, beginning research writing, multiple projects
- 12 English – AP Literature, Creative Writing, Advanced Composition and Research – seniors have a choice on which English class they take. With threads focusing on either literature or writing, students choose based on preference and post- secondary goals.
- 9-12 mixed – Second Chance Reading – a class designed to increase reading comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary. Students are taught strategies through modeled read alouds. Data collected and interventions applied as a standard treatment protocol.

Committees/Leadership