Arlington ISD educator recognized by TWU

March 21, 2025 — DENTON — Krista McCown, an educator in Arlington Independent School District, is the recipient of the 2025 Rose Spicola Pioneer in Literacy Award. She will be recognized at Texas Woman’s University’s Rose Spicola Forum in Literacy, hosted by the School of Education’s Literacy and Language Division, on May 3.
 
The Pioneer in Literacy Award recognizes an exceptional literacy leader who embodies the same pioneering spirit and unwavering commitment of former TWU educator Rose Spicola to advancing literacy education.
 
“Krista’s ability to connect research with real-world application has transformed how teachers approach literacy in AISD,” Assistant Clinical Professor Heather Cato, PhD, said. “Her advocacy mirrors the legacy of Rose Spicola, making her an ideal recipient of this award.”
 
In her role as coordinator for state and federal interventions and operations at Arlington ISD McCown has enhanced teacher effectiveness and elevated student achievement. She leads innovative district-wide literacy intervention programs designed to match student needs with support to close learning gaps.

“Krista’s work exemplifies what it means to be a pioneer,” School of Education Director Juan Araujo, PhD, said. “Her dedication has built a legacy of empowerment that will benefit AISD students for years to come.”
 
A Master of Education graduate from Texas Woman’s (2007), McCown has partnered with TWU to empower educators and elevate student outcomes across Title I campuses. She has been integral in TWU’s partnership with Arlington ISD, launched in 2016, that has supported 81 teachers and administrators in earning a MEd in Literacy Education and pursuing Texas Reading Specialist Certification. McCown helped tailor TWU’s graduate coursework to AISD’s specific needs to equip the district’s teachers with cutting-edge strategies to address literacy disparities and support varied learners.
 
The program has developed literacy leaders in AISD and improved educator retention in the face of teacher shortages, leading to promotions for multiple graduates. Currently, 33 more teachers are pursuing their master’s through the TWU partnership.
 
McCown has directly impacted growth in AISD teachers’ expertise in literacy development across all ages, particularly in Title I settings. She has fostered a culture of instructional leadership with her mentorship, encouraging educators to advocate for literacy resources and leading professional development.
 
The 57th annual Rose F. Spicola Forum in Literacy, featuring keynote speakers and breakout sessions focused on research-based literacy practices, will be at TWU’s Denton campus and is free and open to both undergraduate and graduate TWU students. 

For more information about the forum or the award, contact Literacy and Language Division Head Amy Burke, PhD.
 
More on Rose Spicola Pioneer in Literacy Award

The Rose Spicola Pioneer in Literacy Award honors an exceptional literacy leader who embodies a pioneering spirit and steadfast dedication to advancing literacy education. This award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated outstanding advocacy for literacy, pioneering innovative programs, supporting educators, and ensuring access to reading and learning opportunities for all students. Through transformative leadership, the award recipient has impacted a school district and community, reflecting Spicola’s foundational contributions celebrated at the Texas Woman’s University Rose Spicola Forum in Literacy. The recipient is selected for commitment to empowering students, inspiring educators, and championing literacy as a cornerstone of lifelong learning.

Page last updated 12:53 AM, March 21, 2025