Susan B. Neuman is a Professor in Educational Studies at the University of Michigan, specializing in early literacy development. Her research and teaching interests include early childhood policy, curriculum, and early reading instruction, PreK–Grade 3. She previously served as the U.S. Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education (2001-2003), where she established the Reading First program and the Early Reading First program.

Francie Alexander is the Chief Academic Officer, Scholastic Inc., Senior VP, Scholastic Education, and the spokesperson/advisor for the Scholastic Home Phonics Reading Program. As the former Deputy Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Education, she published the very successful Helping Your Child Learn series. Ms. Alexander is a recognized leader in educational thought and serves on the National Assessment Governing Board.

Adele M. Brodkin is a faculty member at the Institute for Training in Infant and Preschool Mental Health, Youth Consultation Service, and a member of the psychiatry department at St. Barnabas Medical Center. Additionally, she serves as a senior child development consultant and author for Scholastic Inc., which has published many of her articles and books, including her most recent title, Raising Happy and Successful Kids.

Akimi Gibson is Vice President and General Manager of Scholastic’s Early Childhood Education Group. She previously worked as a childhood educator, teaching infants, toddlers, and preschoolers as well as kindergartners. A children’s book author, Ms. Gibson holds degrees in early childhood education and child development and specializes in language acquisition and early literacy and cognitive development.

Diane C. Ohanesian is an Editor-at-Large in the Early Childhood Division, Scholastic Inc. She is also the author of many picture and activity books for young children. Diane serves as the editorial focal point at Scholastic for early childhood research and editorial development.