Dr. Misty Sailors

Dr. Misty Sailors is an internationally recognized expert in literacy and educator professional development, currently serving as a Research Director at WestEd. Her expertise encompasses K–12 literacy education, focusing on reading comprehension, and the professional development of both pre- and in-service teachers. Dr. Sailors has designed literacy programs and teacher education courses across the United States and in several African countries. Her strong research background, evidenced by over 80 scholarly research articles and book chapters, along with 6 books, includes both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Dr. Sailors is currently leading literacy research and professional development, focusing on structured literacy, disciplinary literacy, and supporting higher education institutions. She also directs the Reading Apprenticeship for Academic Literacy Learning. Dr. Sailors also works with State Educational Agencies (SEAs), districts, and schools as an evaluation and technical assistance provider, offering expertise in high-quality reading curricula and professional development of teachers and school leaders. She holds Professor Emeritus status at the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Dr. Sailors earned her B.S., M.Ed., and Ph.D. from The University of Texas at San Antonio.