This mixed methods action research study was conducted in a Title I, K-12 public charter school with the purpose of exploring teachers’ capacities to implement student-centered learning after participating in effective professional development (PD). Participants attended a PD cycle where the staff chose the topic, learning was sustained over a three-month period, and teachers received monthly feedback on classroom observations through personalized coaching. The guiding framework for this study was sociocultural theory because the PD design mirrored student-centered learning where the teacher is seen as a guide alongside the student. In this theory, meaning making is a social experience where perspectives of both the teacher and the student contribute to creating new knowledge. Quantitative data collected included a pre-/post-study survey and classroom observations scored on a rubric, and qualitative data consisted of exit interviews. All data was collected and analyzed concurrently, and a researcher’s journal assisted in real-time by providing a space for reflection that was used to determine PD needs, coaching conversations, and interview questions. Quantitative data revealed that the teachers perceived the intervention as slightly boosting their capacity to implement student-centered learning; however, the classroom observations indicated that teachers did not reach levels of proficiency. Through thematic analysis of the qualitative data, six themes emerged, which support the idea that PD can be a transformative experience when it is centered around praxis: 1) collaboration with colleagues, 2) PD gives teachers new ideas, 3) classroom feedback is valuable, 4) teacher reflection, 5) thought partnership, and 6) student choice. The discussion includes limitations and implications for future practice.

In an effort to combat the lack of diversity in Children's Literature, this project displays a piece of literature titled Stories & Stages: A Tale of Two Sisters, in the form of a children's chapter book for a middle grade audience. Focusing on characters of a Hispanic background without relying on stereotypes or false characterizations, the novel works to inspire young minds and reflect a true representation of the world children are living in. This is done using research on different aspects of Children's Literature, including: the definition of children's literature, diversity, girlhood, and sibling relationships. This research provides the basis for the project, as does personal experience and background. Following the novel is a recording of the background research involved and a documentations of the creative process. Keywords: Children's Literature, Diversity