TALE'S ELECTED OFFICERS
Leah Carruth (2022-2024)
Leah Carruth, Ph.D. is currently an Associate Professor at Angelo State University in the Department of Teacher Education. She obtained her Ph.D. from Texas Tech University in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Language and Literacy. Prior to teaching in higher education, Leah taught in Texas schools for nine years. She is the counselor of the Mu Gamma Chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, involving her students in multiple literacy events for local schools and early learning centers. She has presented in multiple conferences on literacy and culturally responsive learning centers focused upon literacy. Her research interests include early childhood, early literacy development, social/emotional learning, culturally relevant practices, and pre-service teacher education.
Jill Culmo (2023-2025)
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Dr. Jill Culmo began her career in public education over twenty-six years ago. Throughout her tenure, she taught first through fifth grades and has worked as an early literacy specialist, curriculum writer, and professional development writer and presenter. She currently works for Dallas Independent School District’s Early Learning Department as an Instructional Strategy Coordinator. Dr. Culmo is also an adjunct professor in the School of Education at Dallas College.
Dr. Culmo is a graduate of the University of North Texas. She received her Master of Science in Reading in 2003 and Doctor of Education degree in 2009 from Texas A&M University—Commerce. Her areas of expertise include early literacy, word study, comprehension, and motivation to read. Dr. Culmo has previously served TALE in various capacities including Secretary and ILA Coordinator. |
Kelly C. Johnston (2022-2024)
Kelly C. Johnston, Ed.D., is an Assistant Professor of Literacy Studies at Baylor University. Dr. Johnston’s research interests include sociocultural, critical, and affective approaches to children and youths' engagement with literacy in interdisciplinary spaces. Along with her research on reimagining schooled literacies, Dr. Johnston is currently examining the integration of literacy with physical activity and health as well integration of literacy across content areas through inquiry-based learning. Both of these projects seek to produce more equitable and just opportunities for children and youth who have been marginalized due to cultural, linguistic, racial-ethnic, and neurodiverse identities and practices. Dr. Johnston teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in the Department of Curriculum & Instruction. Before coming to Baylor, Dr. Johnston taught graduate courses at Teachers College, Columbia University, and at The City College of New York while working as a research fellow in the Department of Curriculum and Teaching at Teachers College, Columbia University. To learn more about Dr. Johnston’s work, visit www.kellycjohnston.com
Sarah Ranzau (2021-2023)
Sara Ranzau is currently an instructional coach and former English and creative writing teacher in Boerne ISD. She is also an adjunct professor at Schreiner University in Kerrville, TX. She is also the director for the TALE Advocacy Development Committee. She received her Ed.D. in education with a focus in literacy from Sam Houston State University in 2016. Dr. Ranzau has taught at schools in a variety of cities and situations throughout Texas since she began her career in 2003. Her undergraduate degree is in theatre education, so she believes she often brings a new take on a lesson or activity into her classrooms. She enjoys working with teachers and looks forward to continuing to serve the membership of TALE in her role on the board.
