About
Turn the Page for Children is committed to
fostering a love of reading and writing in young learners. We believe that strong literacy skills are fundamental to academic achievement and lifelong success. Our team consists of experienced literacy specialists, educators, and consultants who are passionate about helping children develop the literacy skills they need to thrive in school and beyond. Whether working with individual students,
parents, or caregivers, we provide personalized solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.
Meet Bonnie Defriest-Downs
Master Teacher and Turn the Page for Children Founder
I have recently retired from a 34-year teaching career, where I was dedicated to cultivating a love for learning and fostering literacy skills at the district, classroom, and individual student levels. I am currently an Instructor at Long Island University with a focus on teaching literacy courses. With a firm foundation in the renowned Wilson Reading System, I am committed to equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in reading and writing, regardless of their background or learning challenges.
My journey in education has been driven by a deep-seated belief
in the transformative power of literacy. Through personalized instruction, innovative teaching methodologies, and a nurturing learning environment, I strive to empower students to become confident and proficient readers and writers.
With my vast teaching experiences, I bring a wealth of knowledge
and expertise to my role, implementing evidence-based strategies to support students at all levels of literacy development.
Whether working one-on-one with striving readers, filling the role of a travel educator, or leading professional development workshops for fellow educators and parents, I am dedicated to promoting literacy excellence and fostering a culture of lifelong learning.
Beyond the classroom, I am passionate about collaborating
with colleagues, parents, and community stakeholders to create comprehensive literacy programs that meet the diverse needs of each student. By leveraging technology, data-driven assessment practices, and culturally responsive teaching approaches, I aim
to create inclusive learning environments where every student
can thrive.
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I am excited to continue making a positive impact in the field of education and look forward to contributing to the success of Turn the Page for Children's parents and students. Let's connect today and begin taking the steps needed for your child to excel!
"I consider Ms. Downs as one of the best educators I have had the pleasure of hiring and collaborating with during my time in public education. Given my years spent in public education, I have come to identify the best qualities that today's educators require, and Ms. Downs undoubtedly embraces all those qualities and many more."
Linda Rozzi, Superintendent of Schools
"We are delighted to have had Bonnie in our lives over the years. She has a bright and sunny disposition, and is always positive and upbeat in her work. She loves what she does, comes prepared for each lesson with all manner of peripherals and learning devices, and makes each child feel special in their learning."
Chris Keber, Board Member at Kenan-Flagler Business School, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
"Bonnie is a thoughtful, caring, creative, interested and patient educator who worked with my children for four summers. She was a constant advocate and cheerleader for them, as she worked through their greatest challenges."
Wendy McCarthy
"In her role of reading leader of learning, I observed Bonnie collaborate
with all faculty and staff, demonstrate her ability to manage and lead complex situational issues, saw her understanding and application of reading
instruction and data gain immediate school-wide student progress and
teacher support learning improvements."
Joseph C. Dyer, Superintendent of Schools
"Regarding her ability to establish wonderful relationships with faculty,
staff and families. Ms. Downs is known as a leader who is warm, prepared,
and methodical when it comes to teaching other teachers."
Linda Rozzi, Superintendent of Schools
"Bonnie cared for my children’s success nearly as much as I did, not only building their concrete classroom skills but their confidence in themselves as students and learners. My family and I are beyond grateful for her patience and dedication to our children’s academic success. One would be hard pressed to find a more loving, caring or devoted educator. "
Wendy McCarthy
"I recommend Bonnie at the highest level as a specialist in the art and
science of early and developmental literacy instruction. She has fostered
a love of language and reading in our children and given us comfort in
their development along the way."
Chris Keber, Board Member at Kenan-Flagler Business School, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
