Education That Makes a Difference
As a dedicated resource for educators, I specialize in delivering straightforward, practical, and engaging strategies to empower your teaching and inspire your students.
Hello, and welcome!
I’m Carmen Contos, and I’m so glad you’re here! Let me tell you a little about myself and my passion for helping educators.
I grew up in sunny Southwest Florida, where the days were filled with sunshine and ocean waves, and I was blessed with a family that supported me in everything I set out to do. After earning my Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction for Elementary Education at Florida State University (Go Noles!), I spent over a decade in the classroom, teaching young minds and cherishing the magic of those early formative years.
While my heart belongs to teaching the little ones, I’ve discovered another passion: equipping fellow educators with tools to thrive in their own classrooms. I’ve had the privilege of working with organizations that specialize in coaching teachers in Project-Based Learning (PBL), where I discovered my passion for not only bringing dynamic, hands-on learning to life but also mentoring teachers in how to effectively teach and inspire younger learners.
My credentials include endorsements in gifted education, K-12 reading, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), and certification to teach Elementary Education for grades K-6. I’m also Science of Reading certified, which fuels my drive to share evidence-based strategies that truly make a difference in literacy instruction.
For me, education is more than a career—it’s a calling rooted in my faith, my family, and my belief in the transformative power of learning. These early years are where the magic happens, as we lay the foundation for all future success. Research shows that early literacy and foundational skills are critical for a child’s lifelong journey, and I’m passionate about empowering educators to make those first years count.
Through this website, I hope to share practical tips, inspiring ideas, and the kind of encouragement that helps teachers navigate the joys and challenges of education. Whether it’s diving into PBL, mastering literacy instruction, or fostering a love of learning in the classroom, we’re in this together.
Thank you for stopping by and for all you do for your students. I can’t wait to connect, share, and grow with you!
Warmly,
Carmen Contos

Carmen Contos
Educator/Coach
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What is this site about?
This site is all about early learning, with a focus on equipping teachers with research-based methods to effectively teach foundational skills to students. Here, you’ll find evidence-backed articles and practical strategies to bring effective teaching practices to life in your classroom.
How can this site help teachers and
This site provides teachers and homeschooling parents with peer-reviewed articles that teach effective teaching strategies. We also offer resources, practical tools, and step-by-step guides to help you implement these strategies and create engaging, successful learning environments for young learners.
What topics are covered on this site?
This site covers topics, such as early learning, foundational reading, the science of reading, and primary math. We also explore project-based learning (PBL) strategies, providing you with creative approaches to engage students while building critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
How can I get in touch for further
If you have any further questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact us. We are here to help and provide support, guidance, and resources to ensure your success in teaching and learning.
Can you help me with teaching strategies?
Yes, we can definitely help you with teaching strategies. Our website is filled with peer-reviewed articles, research-based methods, and practical resources designed to support effective teaching in the classroom and at home.