Sara Gretina-Diana of Literacy Strategies Consulting

Sara Gretina-Diana, M.S.Ed, has cultivated a multifaceted career in education, underpinned by a deep commitment to social justice, equity, and change. After earning an English degree from Rutgers University and a Master of Science in Education from the University of Pennsylvania, Sara initially entered the classroom as a substitute teacher while pursuing post-baccalaureate studies in literary criticism at Columbia University. This experience ignited a passion for education that has since defined her professional journey.

As a Literacy Consultant, Sara has specialized in upper-grade education and adolescent interventions, with a particular focus on foundational awareness and curricular innovation. She has been instrumental in integrating multimodal text sets, including picture books, into rigorous yet accessible curricula, ensuring that students from all backgrounds with all abilities can engage with and understand complex subjects. Recently, a deep dive into conventions of English Grammar has further supported students in building strong linguistic foundations, enabling them to express themselves more effectively.

In her work with educators, Sara has been a steadfast advocate for social justice and equity. She has actively worked to unpack, unlearn, and revisit these concepts through the lenses of equity and change, ensuring that her teaching and leadership practices reflect a deep commitment to these principles. 

Her expertise in team-building and supporting teachers who may hesitantly approach new initiatives has made her a trusted partner for leadership teams across various districts. She collaborates closely with these teams to implement strategies that not only meet the specific goals of each district but also promote teacher growth and student success within the educational system.

Her experience spans diverse educational settings, from rural to urban districts, giving her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that come with each environment. She is particularly adept at listening to and understanding the needs of different communities, and she works tirelessly to actualize those needs in ways that uplift all stakeholders.

Sara has recently expanded her interests to include neuroscience and the learning brain, recognizing the importance of understanding how brains learn to further her work in promoting equity in education. Her contributions have led to significant improvements in student performance and teacher satisfaction, and she has been recognized for her efforts in advancing social justice and equity in the districts she has served.

Through her work, Sara continues to honor the voices of her students and colleagues, advocating for change and celebrating the joy of learning in every aspect of her professional life.