ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Professors try to prepare you for the commitment: The physical, mental, and financial costs that will challenge a doctoral program. But no one can truly understand the price that is paid, until the journey begins. My family has experienced this journey with me. My husband committed to support me in this endeavor to the very end. And he did. My daughter supported me too. Since I’ve been on this journey, she’s graduated from high school and college, has moved from Georgia to Alaska, and has been engaged. Both my husband and my daughter have been my cheerleaders. They have encouraged me and pushed me when I really did not have it in me to keep going. My mother, father, brother, sister, and grandmother have listened to my stories and waited patiently for me to finish so that I could spend more time with them. Families endure great sacrifices during a journey such as this. Our family dog, Emma, has been my constant companion. She’s snuggled next to me either in my lap or at my feet throughout this journey. Sometimes, her head even rested on the keyboard of my laptop. Because of their consistent love and support, I would like to dedicate this dissertation to my family.
I want to express my deep appreciation to Dr. Sheryl Gowen, Dr. Bob Michael, Dr. Emily Dexter, Dr. Rick Lakes, Dr. Donna Breault, and Dr. Eric Freeman for their guidance, wisdom, and support. Thank you for meeting with me, having phone conferences with me, and encouraging me through this project.
A special thanks to the participants of this study. You were wonderful. You took time to meet with me and welcomed me into your classrooms with open arms. You shared your insights openly and honestly. Thank you for the effort that you put forth everyday to help all children learn to read and write.
I also want to thank my dear friends who have supported me. Jamie car-pooled with me for two years. He helped me with things that no one else would have taken the time to do. He has inspired me, challenged my thinking, and encouraged me. Orval read my drafts, questioned my thinking, and inspired me to move forward. They have my undying respect and enormous gratitude for the support they have given me.
I would also like to express a special note of appreciation to Dr. Bob Michael, the staff at North Georgia College and State University, and the members of the North GA Doctoral Co-hort. I will forever hold a special place in my heart for this journey we took together. You have answered questions, shared ideas, and given freely of your time. Finally, I am grateful to the guidance of Dr. Sheryl Gowen and Dr. Eric Freeman, my major advisors, who showed a genuine interest in my project and challenged my thinking. You have my respect and upmost appreciation. Thank you for your assistance and encouragement.