Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson headlines Centenary University Literacy Conference, urges educators to focus on student-centered learning
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — More than 100 educators gathered at Centenary University’s Sitnik Theater for the annual Literacy Conference, which featured a virtual keynote address by renowned education scholar Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson. The event, titled Differentiating Literacy Instruction to Meet the Needs of All Learners in Grades K-8, was filled to capacity as attendees explored strategies to tailor literacy instruction to diverse student needs.
Dr. Tomlinson, widely recognized as a pioneer of differentiated instruction, emphasized the importance of maintaining a student-centered approach in today’s classrooms. “Differentiation places the student at the center of planning, implementation, and reflection,” she said. She encouraged educators to focus on creating “responsive, kid-worthy learning environments” and “communities of learners.”
During her address, Dr. Tomlinson also clarified the distinction between standards and curriculum. “Standards are important ingredients for a curriculum but are not a curriculum,” she explained. “A curriculum is much more expansive. It introduces learners to a wider world in which they can see themselves and how what they are learning connects to their lives and experiences.”
Following her remarks, attendees took part in smaller breakout workshops to explore practical applications of her message. Many left the event feeling inspired and better equipped to apply differentiated strategies in their classrooms.
A former PreK–12 public school teacher, Dr. Tomlinson currently serves as the William Clay Parrish, Jr. Professor and Chair of Educational Leadership, Foundations, and Policy at the University of Virginia’s Curry School of Education. She has authored over 300 educational works published in 15 languages and was recently named one of Diverse Magazine’s 2025 Top Women in Higher Education. In 2024, she was ranked #12 in the Education Week Edu-Scholar Public Presence Rankings and #4 in the Curriculum & Instruction category.
The Literacy Conference was sponsored by Centenary’s Master of Education in Literacy Instruction and ESL Teacher Certification programs. “Her work has shaped education for decades,” said Dr. Lexis McCoy, program director. “We are proud that Centenary University provides educators with access to such impactful learning experiences.”
Centenary University’s School of Education and Humanities offers bachelor’s and graduate degrees in teacher preparation and literacy education. The university’s literacy program is recognized by the International Literacy Association for aligning with national standards and for preparing graduates to earn New Jersey Reading Specialist Certification.
