Tomeka Watts

Elementary educator and Science of Reading leader with 15+ years of successful K–3 classroom experience and growing instructional leadership experience. Uses literacy assessment and classroom data to identify student needs, plan differentiated instruction, monitor progress, and strengthen literacy outcomes. Experienced in teacher mentoring, lesson modeling, curriculum implementation, PLCs, professional learning, small-group instruction, MTSS-aligned intervention planning, and evidence-based literacy practices.

Brings a strong classroom-to-coaching perspective and a demonstrated commitment to building teacher capacity and improving student reading achievement.

First Grade Teacher | Literacy & Instructional Leadership at McLendon Elementary, Stoneview Elementary, Murphy Candler Elementary (2009-12 – Present)

• Deliver evidence-based literacy instruction grounded in the Science of Reading, contributing to reported reading proficiency gains of 20–30%.
• Analyze formative, benchmark, and summative assessment data to identify learning needs, guide instructional decisions, and monitor student progress.
• Design and implement differentiated literacy instruction through whole-group, small-group, and individualized learning experiences using Wonders and Phonics 95.
• Model effective literacy practices and collaborate with teachers to strengthen classroom instruction and improve student outcomes, including reported gains of 35% in reading.
• Provide instructional support and mentoring to colleagues through curriculum collaboration, data discussions, professional learning, and sharing of effective instructional practices.
• Serve as K–2 Wonders Reading Curriculum Contact, supporting curriculum implementation and instructional consistency across grade levels.
• Lead and participate in PLCs focused on literacy instruction and collaborate with administrators to support continuous school improvement.
• Mentor new teachers and colleagues by sharing instructional strategies, literacy resources, and classroom best practices.

Science of Reading Specialist | K–2 MAP Teacher Leader | ELA K–2 Teacher Leader | Wonders Reading Curriculum Contact (K–2) | Literacy Committee Member | School Improvement Committee | Attendance Committee | Parent Engagement Committee Chair at McLendon Elementary, Stoneview Elementary, Murphy Candler Elementary (2009-12 – Present)

• Provide instructional coaching and ongoing support through lesson planning, curriculum implementation, lesson modeling, and instructional best-practice conversations.
• Facilitate collaborative data meetings that use literacy assessment results to guide instructional adjustments and intervention planning.
• Support schoolwide literacy initiatives through committee leadership, curriculum planning, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Strengthen teacher capacity through coaching conversations, lesson modeling, differentiated instruction support, small-group planning, and professional learning.

Master of Educational Leadership & Certification in Educational Leadership – Mercer University (2024-12)

Master of Early Childhood Education in Early Childhood Education – Mercer University (2010-12)

Bachelor of Mass Communications in Mass Communications – University of West Georgia (2001-08)