Overview
Laurie Erby is a national expert in literacy with a specialization in the Reading Apprenticeship approach to disciplinary literacy. With over 2 decades of experience in education, Erby has led transformative professional learning and coaching initiatives across the United States, supporting teachers and teams of educational leaders in implementing research-based literacy practices. Her work centers on improving student outcomes in reading and critical thinking while fostering greater autonomy and confidence in learners.
At WestEd, Erby independently manages a major partnership with Rich Township District 227 in Illinois, overseeing a multicohort professional development initiative aimed at strengthening literacy instruction in high school classrooms. This work includes facilitating teacher learning in disciplinary literacy, providing direct instructional coaching, and collaborating closely with district leadership. Documented improvements in student reading performance and engagement have been featured on WestEd’s website and in Education Week.
Erby also played a key role in the implementation of a federal EIR grant project across 20 rural and low-income districts in North Carolina, helping educators adopt the Reading Apprenticeship framework with fidelity. Early results, validated by independent researchers at SRI, show promising gains in student achievement.
Additionally, she has led district recruitment and partnership development in key states for a second EIR grant focused on Tier II literacy interventions for struggling 8th and 9th grade readers.
Prior to joining WestEd, Erby was a dedicated middle school teacher committed to integrating literacy across all disciplines in ways that resonate with the unique traits and nuances of young adolescents.
Education
- MA in teaching: middle level curriculum and instruction, Eastern Michigan University
Honors, Awards, and Affiliations
Michigan Geographic Alliance, Board of Directors and Teacher Consultant, Central Michigan University, 2018 to present
Michigan Association of Middle School Educators, Educator of the Year, 2008
National Council for Geographic Education, Distinguished Teaching Award K–12 Level, 2008
National Geographic Teacher Consultant and grant recipient, 2005