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Cindy Downend

Center Director

What I like most about my role within the Center is…

Working alongside literacy leaders—including coaches and administrators—to solve the complex challenges of ensuring every child has the opportunity to become a successful reader and writer. When educators think in new ways about literacy teaching and professional learning, they transform their practice—and, ultimately, outcomes for children. 

Seeing educators grow in confidence and lead meaningful change within their schools is incredibly rewarding. Knowing that our work helps create lasting improvements for teachers and students is the most fulfilling part of what I do. 

What I believe in

The power of literacy to improve, enrich, and change people’s lives.

Previous work highlights

I am so proud of being a member of our Center’s team here at Lesley for more than 19 years. Prior to that, I enjoyed working as a classroom teacher, literacy coach, and reading  interventionist in a variety of locations including Michigan, Germany, Minnesota, and Florida. 

Favorite book

So many, but my all-time favorite is A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole! 

Fun fact

My cockapoo, Westley, and I were recently certified as a pet therapy team. 

Education

MA, Elementary Education, Western Michigan University 
EdS, Educational Leadership, Nova Southeastern University 

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Featured Blog Posts

October 28, 2026 Wendy Vaulton, Associate Director, Early Interventions

Five Ways to Lead From Where You Sit

Here are five practical ways you can lead from any role by building trust, modeling positive behaviors, solving problems, communicating clearly, and sharing your why.

October 9, 2026 Heather Rodman, Literacy Trainer

When Someone Sees You as a Writer

Discover how to put the writer, not the writing, at the center of writing conferences for students to see themselves as writers.

September 28, 2026 Cindy Downend, Director

What Coaches Need to Succeed: A Research-Informed Model for Supporting Coaches

Coaching can be one of the most rewarding roles in a school, but it can also be isolating. Coaches occupy a unique space: they are not administrators, but their role also differs significantly from that of classroom teachers and specialists. Here are 5 things coaches need to thrive.