Laura Stam

Laura Stam, a dedicated second-grade teacher from Wyoming and a Goyan fellow, dives into her passion for the Science of Reading and Direct Instruction. She discusses the importance of integrating content and vocabulary for enhanced literacy and critical thinking in elementary education. Laura shares innovative classroom strategies, such as merit-demerit systems for behavior tracking and a two-minute daily math timing to boost fluency. Her insights on structured teaching highlight the transformative effects on student confidence and engagement in reading.

Laura Stam, an elementary teacher and 2024–25 Goyen Literacy Fellow from Wyoming, shares her insights on powerful history instruction. She highlights how a coherent curriculum engages second graders with lively history lessons, like the War of 1812, and connects various subjects through art and culture. Laura discusses the importance of building teachers' content knowledge and shares strategies for professional growth. Her optimism shines as she emphasizes the role of knowledge-rich education in fostering civic understanding and encouraging student agency.