Walther, Maria P.: - Maria Walther, Ed.D., is a first-grade teacher in the Chicago area and an expert in early literacy. She is the author of four professional books, including Teaching Struggling Readers With Poetry and Literature is Back! As an adjunct professor in Judson University Masters in Literacy program, Maria shares her passion for teaching young literacy learners with other professionals. Recently, she helped create the ELA Common Core State Standards curriculum for the Indian Prairie School District.