Marlene Darwin is a Senior Research Analyst at the American Institutes for Research, a premier social sciences research organization in Washington, D.C. Dr. Darwin has extensive research and practitioner experience in literacy and instruction, including 15 years as a reading specialist in public schools in Virginia and Georgia. Dr. Darwin received her doctorate in education from George Mason University with specialties in literacy and educational leadership. Dr. Darwin received the Nila Banton Smith Award in 2002 from the International Reading Association for her leadership as a secondary reading specialist. She was also recognized as Reading Teacher of the Year in Virginia for 2002. Dr. Darwin has demonstrated expertise in School Reform and Turnaround, Dropout Prevention, Evidence-Based Practices in Schools, and Translation of Research-Based Practices to Products and Tools for Practitioners. She brings a national policy perspective to the board as well as a deep understanding of children’s developmental needs to become expert readers, writers, and communicators.