India Monroe, EdD
Literacy Specialist
Dr. Monroe has spent more than 25 years helping teachers and students thrive as readers and writers.
Originally from Connecticut and now living in eastern North Carolina, she has served as a secondary English teacher, ELA curriculum specialist, ELA department chair, and school administrator. She currently works as a Literacy Specialist with Vantage Learning, where she supports schools in strengthening writing instruction and teacher learning.
Dr. Monroe specializes in designing standards-aligned ELA curriculum and creating professional learning that helps educators use evidence-based strategies in ways that respond to student needs and classroom context.
Her 2023 doctoral dissertation from the University of Connecticut, Evidence-Based Practices: What Do Teachers Think?, explores teacher perspectives, adult learning, and motivation. She holds certifications in Secondary English, Special Education, and School Administration in both Connecticut and North Carolina.
Irma Sanchez
Literacy Specialist
Irma Sanchez is an accomplished educator, author, and professional development consultant based in El Paso, Texas. With a career in education and literacy spanning over four decades, she has dedicated her life to encouraging others to find their voices, share their stories, and pursue excellence in education.
Irma taught Reading and ESL and joined an industry leader to provide professional development services nationwide. She guided her school to achieve national recognition as an AVID National Demonstration School and served as an AVID national presenter. Her multiple honors include Teacher of the Year and Top Ten Teacher of the Year.
In 2014, Irma published her book, The Escontrias Family Legacy. Through her book presentations, she inspires students and adults alike to celebrate their personal histories and create their own written legacies.
Irma holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Texas at El Paso. Fluent in Spanish, she continues to bridge language and culture in all aspects of her work.
Nicole Zoccola
Professional Learning Specialist – Literacy
Nicole is an accomplished educator and literacy specialist with more than 23 years of experience supporting students and teachers across elementary, middle, and high school settings.
As a Professional Learning Specialist at Vantage Learning, she partners with districts nationwide to design and deliver professional development that strengthens writing instruction and promotes student achievement. A passionate advocate for literacy equity, Nicole helps educators implement practical, research-based strategies that make writing meaningful and accessible for all learners.
Nicole has been recognized multiple times for her excellence in teaching and leadership at the district level and was named the 2023 National Educator of the Year by the Share the Magic Foundation. Nicole also has spoken before the North Carolina State Board of Education as a literacy advocate and continues to champion initiatives that empower teachers and elevate student voices through writing.