Cindy Marten has used her reflective approach to teaching and learning for nine years as a classroom teacher and six years as a literacy specialist. She is deeply committed to creating conditions and opportunities, both in and out of school, for all children to become actively literate members of a democratic society. Her passion for her work led her to serve as president of the San Diego Council of Literacy Professionals. The International Reading Association has honored her with the Regie Routman Teacher Recognition Award. Marten teaches in the Poway Unified School District in San Diego and consults in other districts about writing and spelling instruction.

Cindy believes that effective spelling teachers are equipped with tools to help students not only become expert spellers but to develop a love of words and language.

In order to be an effective word crafting teacher you will need many tools in your tool belt. Gone are the days where teaching spelling simply required one tool: a drill. If you simply ask students to memorize words (just use the "drill") they will only become functional spellers. Instead, Cindy's approach involves full engagement in inquiry and wonder about words.

This web site was developed to assist you in your search for more tools to help you teach spelling and word study in an effective manner.