Alabaster City Schools recently welcomed educators from across the state for an Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI) Teaching & Learning meeting, featuring nationally recognized education consultant Diane Sweeney.
The meeting brought together professionals from multiple districts across Alabama, all focused on strengthening literacy instruction and improving outcomes for students. The collaborative setting provided an opportunity for educators to share ideas, learn from one another, and gain practical strategies to take back to their schools.
Sweeney led a featured session titled “Deepening Impact with Student-Centered Coaching,” where she emphasized the importance of peer collaboration and instructional coaching in supporting teachers. Her presentation highlighted ways schools can build capacity among educators through meaningful feedback, shared leadership, and ongoing professional learning.
A key focus of the session was expanding the impact of the Alabama Reading Initiative beyond third grade, ensuring that strong literacy practices continue throughout a student’s academic journey. Educators explored how student-centered coaching can be used to support teachers at all grade levels and across content areas.
Hosting opportunities like this reflects Alabaster City Schools’ ongoing commitment to professional growth and instructional excellence. By bringing educators together to learn and collaborate, the district continues to invest in strategies that support both teachers and students across Alabama.