As a former kindergarten and first-grade teacher, Deborah shares both theory and personal experiences in presentations, articles, and books. Her primary areas of interest are supporting children's development in reading, writing, and science; project-based learning; and working with families.Charlotte Sassman is a kindergarten and first-grade teacher at Alice Carlson Applied Learning Center in Fort Worth, Texas. During her 25 years in public education, she has been a staff developer, curriculum writer, mentor teacher, and frequent contributor to national magazines. Her primary areas of interest are young children's writing and reading, project-based learning, and school reform.