Hello, all! My name is Erin West, and I am an educator, literacy scholar, and advocate committed to equitable, research-informed literacy teaching and learning. I serve at Appalachian State University, where I support teacher learning, rural education partnerships, and educator development.

With experience spanning early childhood, elementary, secondary, and higher education, I bring a practice-grounded perspective to literacy education and leadership. My work focuses on literacy development, teacher empowerment, early childhood education, and relational approaches to teaching and learning.

I am the editor of Former Educators’ Roles in Supporting Student Growth and Learning (IGI Global, 2025) and have authored numerous book chapters and peer-reviewed publications. My research appears in Workplace: A Journal for Academic Labor and the International Journal of Self-Directed Learning. I have presented at professional conferences, including the North Carolina Reading Association, with a focus on literacy and teacher learning.

In addition to my scholarly work, I direct the WEUMC Summer Reading Program, a community-based initiative that supports children’s reading engagement, confidence, and growth. In every setting, I am committed to nurturing curiosity, empowering educators, and advocating for rich, inclusive literacy opportunities for every child.
Email: westek@appstate.edu