Rita M. Bean

Rita Bean’s research on preparing reading specialists and literacy coaches was stimulated by her educational experiences, including serving as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, and coordinator (Kdg-grade 12). “I learned the importance of building a trusting relationship and collaborative problem-solving when working with teachers who were experiencing difficulties in providing effective literacy instruction for their students, especially those identified as struggling readers.” Bean is Professor Emerita, University of Pittsburgh, where she received the Chancellor’s Distinguished Teaching Award. She is also a member of the Reading Hall of Fame.