Meet our Literacy Coach: Mrs. Heather Craner
Hello, my name is Heather Craner and I am one of two Elementary Literacy Coaches here in Parsippany. I am currently entering my 18th year as a teacher and coach. I began my career in grades third, fourth and fifth in Paterson, NJ. Believe it or not, I was originally a math and science teacher! I loved unlocking the mysteries of math for my students and creating science experiments. However, after realizing how much my kiddos needed reading support, I went back to school to earn my Master´s degree in Reading, while also earning my Reading Specialist Certification. I spent the remainder of my time in Paterson as an ELA teacher, providing reading support across several grade levels. After the birth of my first son in 2015, I was fortunate to come to work in Parsippany as a third grade teacher.
In the fall of 2020, I became a Literacy Coach and have loved every minute of it. My role as a Literacy Coach is quite unique in that I get to partner with the amazing elementary teachers of our district to problem solve, grow as literacy experts and continue to provide different learning opportunities. Together we examine curriculum, incorporate best literacy practices into our classrooms and discover different ways to teach every child to become confident readers and writers. I am grateful to get to work alongside such wonderful teachers at Troy Hills.
When not working alongside fantastic teachers, I am a mom to two sweet boys, ages 7 and 4. We love to go to the beach, take long hikes, look for bugs, leaves and anything else that can make a fun mess! We also love to read, making frequent trips to Parsippany´s awesome libraries. When I do have a few spare minutes, I enjoy getting lost in a great book and spending time with my closest friends.