Heather Sanders

Background

About Heather Sanders

I’m a veteran educator with 28 years of experience helping students, teachers, and schools thrive. My work centers on strategic, research-based instructional practices—rooted in John Hattie’s Visible Learning and informed by adolescent neuropsychology—to drive meaningful outcomes in middle school classrooms. As a Title I Academic Facilitator and former ELAR teacher, I specialize in creating systems that support literacy, engagement, and data-informed decision-making. Whether I’m leading PLCs, designing curriculum, or coaching teachers one-on-one, I believe that the most effective classrooms are built where research meets relationships. I’ve had the privilege of sharing my work with educators across the country at leading conferences, including TCEA, FETC, ISTE, and GaETC. My professional development sessions focus on practical strategies that teachers can use tomorrow—especially in areas like brain-based instruction, adolescent engagement, Google Sheets for instructional planning, and ELAR across the content areas. What sets me apart: A deep love for Google Sheets and instructional data—not just collecting it, but helping teachers use it to drive decisions and impact A passion for ELAR instruction that builds both confidence and critical thinking in diverse learners 🧠 An understanding of teen brain development that empowers educators to connect more deeply and teach more effectively A track record of designing PD that’s hands-on, high-impact, and grounded in both research and reality I’m currently developing my next chapter as an Educational Consultant, with a focus on instructional leadership, adolescent learning, and practical teacher support. If you're looking to build stronger systems, more confident educators, and engaged students—I’d love to connect.