Yuri directs the CSL Literacy Initiative, a custom multi-district solution crafted by the Center in collaboration with school districts in the rural Mississippi Delta region to equip teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively deploy the science of reading in the classroom and foster parental and community engagement. He also supervises literacy coaches who provide professional development and coaching opportunities that focus on each district’s specific needs. Yuri also collaborates with each district and school personnel to ensure that culturally diverse books are provided for the students.

As Assistant Principal of Cordova Middle Optional School in the Shelby County Schools district Yuri engaged teachers to deploy strategies to move students toward proficiency in core content subjects. Through observations and focused feedback, he helped build capacity among teachers and teacher leaders to gain an accurate understanding of the adopted standards and instructional practices, including a system of aggressive monitoring for rigor and curriculum alignment.

By collaborating with the school leadership team, Yuri also provided vision in determining the optimal placement of educators within the school. His knowledge and experience helped strengthen several departments—and the school as a whole. By helping set expectations that were mission and vision-aligned he fostered a safe and respectful learning environment.
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Yuri is particularly adept at working closely with school leaders to prepare and present actionable assessment data results. He enables individuals and teams to use formative and summative assessment data to develop and implement strategies for improving teacher effectiveness and student achievement.