Nikki Drury

Literacy Trainer

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

Every day I get to immerse myself in my favorite topic: Literacy!

What I believe in

I believe language is powerful, and when we give students the ability to use language, we empower them to shape the world with their words, learn more about themselves and others, and delight in the pleasures of great literature.

Previous work highlights

Before coming to the Center, I was a classroom teacher and literacy coach.

Favorite book

Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell

Fun fact

At 10 years old I was the Texas state baton twirling champion.

Education

BS Interdisciplinary Studies, Sam Houston State University

M.Ed. Educational Leadership, Texas A&M

December 12, 2025 Nikki Drury, Literacy Trainer

Season’s Readings: 2025 December Holiday Books

The holiday season is a wonderful time to spark joy, build community, and celebrate some of the traditions your students bring into the classroom.

December 1, 2025 Wendy Vaulton, Associate Director for Reading Recovery & Early Interventions

Reaching All Learners Matters More Than Ever

Classrooms are full of potential, bursting with students who each bring their own strengths, ideas, and perspectives. This year’s Reaching All Learners Speaker Series, kicking off in January 2026, is designed to equip you with the tools you need to make the most of every student’s potential—celebrating diversity, sparking engagement, and discovering ways to make learning meaningful for every student.

November 6, 2025 Nikki Drury, Literacy Trainer

Timing is Everything: Moving from the Writer’s Notebook to Draft Paper

How do you know when to move from the writer’s notebook to draft paper? The writer’s notebook is the heart of a writer’s daily life. Just like gardeners plant seeds without knowing which ones will flourish, writers collect ideas.