The Stories that Shape Us: Centering Student Experience to Reimagine Literacy Practices
“Before getting to literacy skill development such as decoding, fluency, comprehension, writing or any other content standards, students must see themselves in the learning” (Muhammad, 2019, p. 69).
Gholdy Muhammad’s insight reminds us that learning is most meaningful when students see themselves reflected in the texts, practices, and stories they encounter. Storytelling provides a way for students to express identity, culture, and perspective while engaging deeply with literacy skills. The 2026 AETA conference theme invites educators to explore instructional approaches that place student experiences and voices at the center of learning. This conference seeks proposals that highlight innovative strategies for integrating storytelling into classroom practice, helping students engage meaningfully with literacy while seeing their identities affirmed.
Location: Chandler Gilbert Community College (map)
Scholarships available for early career educators, rural educators, and educators from underserved and historically marginalized communities — deadline to apply is July 31, 2026.
Tucson Values Teachers is providing limited scholarships for educators to attend PD opportunities, if you are interested, click here for more information
- For questions regarding this resource, please contact Arizona English Teachers Association (AETA).
- Email Address: programs@arizonaenglishteachers.org