Colette leads Magpie’s 3–8 literacy work, bridging research, classroom practice, and product design to create tools that meet the needs of upper elementary and middle school learners. She began her career as a middle school special educator before moving into system leadership as Director of Academic Strategy for St. Louis Public Schools and Executive Director of Hiawatha Academies in Minneapolis. She has also served as a teacher coach, literacy coach, and Managing Director of Program at Teach For America–St. Louis. With 20+ years in education, Colette brings proven expertise in literacy innovation and a deep belief in access for all.