Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
References
Timeline
Generic

Lauren McHugh

Forest Hill,MD

Summary

Dedicated and passionate educator specializing in literacy education with a proven track record of fostering student engagement and success. Currently completing a PhD in Literacy Education (expected Spring 2025), with extensive experience teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in effective literacy practices. Skilled in designing evidence-based curricula, integrating technology into instruction, and supporting diverse learner needs. Adept at mentoring students and collaborating with colleagues to advance literacy research and pedagogy. Committed to promoting equitable and inclusive literacy education through innovative teaching methods and scholarly contributions.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience

Work History

Adjunct Professor

Notre Dame Of Maryland University
Baltimore , Maryland
09.2009 - Current

Experienced Adjunct Professor with a focus on teaching undergraduate and graduate literacy courses, equipping future educators with the knowledge and skills to foster effective reading and writing instruction in diverse classrooms.

Key responsibilities included:

  • Course Development and Instruction: Designed and delivered engaging coursework on literacy theory, instructional strategies, and assessment practices for pre-service and in-service educators.
  • Student Support and Mentorship: Guided students in applying evidence-based literacy practices through discussions, assignments, and fieldwork. Provided individualized feedback and mentorship to support academic and professional growth.
  • Research Integration: Incorporated current research and best practices into course content, fostering critical thinking and a research-based approach to literacy education.
  • Assessment and Evaluation: Evaluated student performance through assignments, presentations, and practical applications, ensuring alignment with program and accreditation standards.
  • Collaboration: Worked with faculty and program directors to align courses with institutional goals and state standards for literacy education.

Recognized for delivering high-quality instruction, fostering an inclusive learning environment, and inspiring future educators to champion literacy development in their classrooms.

Reading Specialist

Harford County Public Schools
, Maryland
08.2003 - Current

Experienced Reading Specialist with 22 years of expertise in developing and implementing literacy programs for students in PreK–5. Proficient in diagnosing reading difficulties, designing individualized intervention plans, and fostering literacy development in diverse student populations. Skilled in collaborating with teachers, administrators, and families to create and sustain a literacy-rich environment.

Key responsibilities included:

  • Instructional Support: Delivered targeted, research-based reading interventions for students with varying literacy needs, including struggling readers and advanced learners.
  • Assessment and Data Analysis: Conducted formal and informal literacy assessments to monitor student progress and inform instruction.
  • Curriculum Development: Designed and implemented literacy programs aligned with state standards and best practices.
  • Professional Development: Provided training and resources for teachers to enhance classroom literacy instruction.
  • Family Engagement: Partnered with families to support at-home literacy practices and foster a love for reading.

Recognized for leadership in literacy education, fostering a culture of reading, and achieving significant gains in student literacy outcomes over two decades.

Classroom Teacher

Howard County Public Schools
, MD
08.1999 - 06.2003

Classroom Teacher

Baltimore City Public Schools
, Maryland
08.1995 - 06.1999

Education

Ph.D. - Instructional Leadership For A Changing Population

Notre Dame of Maryland University
Baltimore, MD
05-2025

Master of Science - Reading Education

Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD
12-2002

Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education

Mount Saint Mary's University
Emmitsburg, MD
05-1995

Skills

  • Academic advisement
  • Individualized support
  • Education technology
  • Student performance evaluation
  • Faculty communication
  • Classroom structure and design for in-person, online, synchronous, and asynchronous courses
  • Guidance and coaching for emerging educators
  • Providing support and professional development for educators at various levels of experience

Affiliations

  • Member of the International Literacy Association 2000-Present
  • Member of the Harford County Literacy Association 2003-Present (Served in the officer roles of President, Vice President and Membership Director as well as various committee chairs)
  • Site Coordinator at Church Creek Elementary with Notre Dame of Maryland University
  • Presented "Digital Text is Here to Stay: How Teachers Can Improve Digital Texts' Role as an Instructional Material While Still Being Responsive Literacy Teachers". LitCon25 National Literacy K-8 Conference - Columbus, Ohio 2/1/25-2/4/25
  • Hartford County Public Schools Cruise into Learning Conference – 4/3/2023 Presentation Topic: The Role and Impact of Reading Digital Text
  • State of Maryland International Reading Association (SOMIRAC) Conference – 4/2017 - Hunt Valley, Maryland Presentation Topic: Notice and Note for Non-Fiction Readers (grades 3-12)
  • Member of the NDMU faculty group that completed the grant and research for “The Impact of Professional Learning on Teacher Educators’ Beliefs, Practices and Skillsets on Identifying Areas in Literacy Instruction That Can Be Enhanced Through Technology Integration.” Jan 2024- Jan 2025 with Notre Dame of Maryland University School of Education.

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Adjunct Professor

Notre Dame Of Maryland University
09.2009 - Current

Reading Specialist

Harford County Public Schools
08.2003 - Current

Classroom Teacher

Howard County Public Schools
08.1999 - 06.2003

Classroom Teacher

Baltimore City Public Schools
08.1995 - 06.1999

Ph.D. - Instructional Leadership For A Changing Population

Notre Dame of Maryland University

Master of Science - Reading Education

Johns Hopkins University

Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education

Mount Saint Mary's University
Lauren McHugh