Connie Dierking is originally from northeast Kansas. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a Master's degree in Special Education, both from Kansas State University.During the past 32 years, Connie has experienced the joys of teaching kindergarten, second grade, third grade, and exceptional education students. Connie has experience as a reading/writing demonstration teacher, reading coach and writing staff developer. She has also provided guidance for literacy teachers throughout the southwest region of Florida as a Reading Coordinator. She currently writes literacy curriculum and is enjoying a return to the classroom. She is the author of five books written for literacy… teachers to assist with the teaching of writing and reading in the primary grades. She conducts professional development in the areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening throughout the country.