TALE'S ELECTED OFFICERS
Soumi Chakraborti (2025 - 2027)
Soumi Chakraborti, M.Ed., is a dedicated 7th-grade English Language Arts teacher at Katy ISD. She holds both a bachelor's and a master's degree in Journalism from the University of Calcutta, India, and has earned her M.Ed. in Reading and Literacy from Sam Houston State University. Soumi is now embarking on her doctoral journey in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on reading and literacy at Texas A&M University-Commerce. A lifelong learner with a passion for reading and literacy, her research interests include culturally responsive teaching practices, literacy instruction for diverse learners, and the interplay of culture and identity.Her commitment to continuous learning and professional development underscores her dedication to enhancing her skills and knowledge in the field of education. Soumi is passionate about making a positive impact on the students’ life and contributing to the success of educational communities.
Patrick Behrens (2025 - 2027)
Patrick Behrens started teaching in 2023 at Boerne Champion High School, where he teaches AP Language and Composition, AP Seminar, and English II. He brings a jet engine philosophy to the classroom: structured, high-intensity, and built to generate real forward momentum. His students are pushed to think critically, write boldly, and take intellectual risks — not just to keep up, but to launch. Before teaching, Patrick came up through the rock climbing world — a space where precision, grit, and passion are staples. That mindset still fuels his work: eat the brick one bite at a time, make your own path, and proceed at Mach 10 speed. He grew up listening to hardcore punk and takes heavy inspiration from the scene and ethos associated with it. DIY, all-in, no shortcuts. As an at-large board member, Patrick is here to represent educators doing the work with urgency and integrity. He believes in teacher voice, systems that empower instead of control, and cutting through myopic practices that hold students back from their full potential. For him, it’s all about building something real, something that empowers the youths, something that empowers the teachers.
Kim Wright (2025 - 2027)
Kim Wright is a doctoral student in Curriculum and Instruction at Texas A&M University, where her research centers on strengthening literacy instruction through the use of evidence-based practices. She is especially interested in how research can inform classroom practice to support the academic success of vulnerable and marginalized students. Her work focuses on early intervention, teacher knowledge, writing, spelling, and preparing preservice teachers to meet the needs of diverse learners. With more than 25 years of experience in education, Kim has taught in both public and private schools and currently teaches and mentors future educators. She brings a practical, student-centered perspective to her work, always seeking to connect research to what matters most—improving learning for all students. Kim holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A&M University and a Master’s in Reading Science from Mount St. Joseph University. She is proud to serve as an at-large member of TALE and is committed to advancing literacy education across Texas.
Dr. Chanelle Maynard (2024-2026)
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Chanelle Maynard, Ed.D. is an Assistant Professor of Education at Schreiner University in Kerrville, Texas. Dr. Maynard teaches literacy courses and is also the coordinator of the undergraduate program. She received her B.A. in Special Education from Kean University, an M.Sc. in Multidisciplinary Therapy Child Health from the University of Southampton, an M.Ed. in Advanced Literacy Instruction from Concordia University, and her Ed.D. from Sam Houston State University. She is currently the Managing Editor of the TALE Yearbook. Dr. Maynard has over 25 years of experience in K-12 education. She is honored to serve on the TALE Board to promote literacy achievement for all!
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Dr. Gina Doepker (2024-2026)
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Dr. Gina M. Doepker is an associate professor in the School of Education at The University of
Texas at Tyler. Doepker received her Ph.D. from The Ohio State University in Literacy Education. She is currently the M.Ed. in Reading Program Coordinator and teaches undergraduate and graduate literacy courses. |
Dr. Susan Reily (2024 - 2026)
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Dr. Susan Reily holds degrees in early childhood education, reading, curriculum and instruction, and educational leadership. She has extensively studied and engaged in early childhood education, literacy education, and educational leadership over her many years of service to the profession. She has served in public schools and in higher education since 1996.
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