Rita M. Bean, PhD, is Professor Emerita in the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to joining the university, she taught at the elementary school level and served as a reading supervisor for grades K-12. Dr. Bean has published numerous articles, book chapters, and books on topics including professional learning and the role of reading specialists and literacy coaches. She is a member of the Reading Hall of Fame and a former board member of the International Literacy Association. Dr. Bean is a recipient of the University of Pittsburgh's Chancellor's Distinguished Teaching Award and Distinguished Service Award, among other honors.

Jacy Ippolito, EdD, is Professor in the McKeown School of Education at Salem State University in Massachusetts, where he teaches courses in literacy and leadership, codirects graduate programs in Educational Leadership, and is the cofounder and coleader of the Center for Educational Leadership. Prior to joining Salem State, Dr. Ippolito was a middle school reading specialist, drama teacher, and literacy coach. His research, teaching, and consulting focus on the intersection of coaching, leadership, adolescent/disciplinary literacy, and school reform. He is the author of numerous journal articles and books.