Gwendolyn Cartledge (Ph.D. Ohio State University, 1975) is Professor of Physical Activities and Educational Services, special education programs. She has had an extensive teaching career in both the public schools and higher education, and she has taught learners with and without disabilities in both suburban and urban public school settings. Her professional teaching, research, and writings have centered on students with mild disabilities, the development of social skills, and early intervention and prevention of learning and behavior problems through effective instruction. Currently, her research and writing interests are concentrated on early reading intervention with a particular emphasis on urban and culturally/linguistically diverse learners. Gwendolyn has published widely including three co-authored books: Teaching Social Skills to Children and Youth, 3rd Edition (1995), Cultural Diversity and Social Skills Teaching: Understanding Ethnic and Gender Differences (1996), and Teaching Urban Learners (2006). Her fourth book on teaching diverse learners with disabilities is currently in production with Merrill Publishers. Cartledge has been recognized by Ohio State University for “Fostering the Success of Black Students” (1991) and for “Distinguished Teaching” (2003). She has also been recognized by The Ohio Council for Exceptional Children for “Leadership and Distinguished Service” (1996) and as the “Educator of the Year” (2006).