We had the good fortune of connecting with ingrid haynes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi ingrid, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?

My habits are a powerhouse and each one contributes to the success of the National Literacy Institute: 1. Goal-Setting and Progress Tracking: Setting clear goals and tracking progress daily is like having a roadmap for success. It keeps me focused, motivated, and provides a tangible way to measure my achievements. The National Literacy Institute’s thriving performance during COVID is a testament to strategic planning. 2. People Skills: Being a people person is a superpower, especially in education and business. Building strong relationships with teachers, administrators, and clients fosters trust and collaboration. It creates a positive environment that supports the growth and impact of the National Literacy Institute. 3. Consistent Daily Routines: Consistency is key, and my daily routines provide the stability needed for sustained success. Whether it’s in business strategies or personal habits, a routine establishes a rhythm that keeps everything running smoothly. 4. Daily Self-Reflection: The habit of daily self-reflection shows a commitment to continuous improvement. It’s like having a built-in feedback loop. By regularly evaluating my actions, decisions, and outcomes, I can fine-tune my approach and adapt to new challenges, ensuring the National Literacy Institute stays on the path to success. 5. Self-Care Practices: Running a successful business and supporting educational initiatives can be demanding. Regular self-care ensures operating at my best, mentally and physically, allowing me to lead with energy and enthusiasm. 6. Comfort with Saying No: Knowing when to say no is a skill that many successful leaders possess. It’s about prioritizing and protecting my time and resources. By being comfortable with saying no, I am able to focus on the initiatives and opportunities that align most closely with the National Literacy Institute’s mission and goals. Good habits are a recipe for sustained success, and they reflect a mindful and strategic approach to both business and personal well-being.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

Introducing the National Literacy Professional Development Consortium, LLC., also known as the National Literacy Institute—a beacon of excellence in education since 2003. As featured on the esteemed Dr. Phil Show twice in 2023, we proudly stand as a leading provider of staff development and professional resources to K-12 schools nationwide.

Our mission is clear: to combat illiteracy by empowering educators, one student and one teacher at a time. Recognized for our unwavering commitment, we’ve become the go-to resource for thousands of teachers and administrators, contributing to a brighter future through the power of education.

Specializing in language and literacy development, Cultural Responsiveness, Effective Leadership Practices, Equity, SEL, and more, the National Literacy Institute is your partner in transformative learning experiences. Our distinguished training team excels at translating research-based strategies into practical and effective methods, ensuring lasting impact in the classroom.

For over a decade, we’ve been the driving force behind positive change in schools. From customized on-site professional development to inspiring Literacy Institutes, Educational Retreats, and engaging regional workshops, the National Literacy Institute is committed to shaping a world where every student can thrive.

Join us on the journey to create a more literate and empowered future. The National Literacy Institute—where knowledge meets impact.

The journey of the National Literacy Institute has been quite the adventure. Like any success story, it wasn’t a walk in the park, but rather a series of challenges met with determination and innovation.

The road to becoming a leading provider of staff development and professional resources in the education sector started with a passion for literacy and a commitment to making a meaningful impact. Early on, we faced the usual hurdles—establishing credibility, building a client base, and navigating the complexities of the education landscape. It definitely wasn’t a cakewalk, but it was these challenges that fueled our drive to excel.

Overcoming obstacles involved a mix of adaptability and resilience. We stayed current with educational trends, continuously refining our training programs to meet evolving needs. Building strong relationships with schools and educators was crucial—listening to their challenges, tailoring solutions, and demonstrating tangible results.

One key lesson learned was the importance of staying true to our mission. In the dynamic field of education, it’s easy to get swayed by trends, but we held steadfast to our core values. Our commitment to reducing illiteracy, promoting cultural responsiveness, and fostering effective leadership practices became the backbone of our success.

As for what the world should know about us—beyond being a provider of professional development, we’re advocates for positive change in education. We’re not just selling services; we’re contributing to a larger narrative of empowerment and transformation. The National Literacy Institute is more than a brand; it’s a story of resilience, dedication, and the unwavering belief that education has the power to change lives.

So, in a nutshell, it wasn’t easy, but every challenge was a stepping stone. The National Literacy Institute stands tall today because of the lessons learned, the resilience shown, and the impact created in classrooms across the nation.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

Alright, buckle up for the ultimate week-long adventure! Let’s make this trip memorable.

Day 1 – Cultural Immersion:

Morning: Start with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe. I’m thinking a place with character, maybe a historic spot or a trendy brunch spot.
Afternoon: Dive into the local culture at a museum or art gallery. Get a taste of the area’s history and artistic vibes.
Evening: Dinner at a cozy, local restaurant with a diverse menu. Something to satisfy every craving.

Day 2 – Outdoor Exploration:

Morning: A hike or nature walk at a nearby park. Fresh air and scenic views to kick off the day.
Afternoon: Picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Keep it simple with local goodies.
Evening: Sunset cocktails at a rooftop bar. A perfect way to unwind and enjoy the evening sky.
Day 3 – Foodie Extravaganza:

Morning: Explore the local farmers’ market for fresh produce and unique finds.
Afternoon: Cooking class or food tour. Dive into the local culinary scene and maybe learn a new recipe or two.
Evening: Dinner at a top-rated restaurant. Fine dining with a touch of local flair.

Day 4 – Adventure Day:

Morning: Thrilling adventure activity—maybe zip-lining, kayaking, or something that gets the adrenaline pumping.
Afternoon: Casual lunch at a spot known for post-adventure refueling.

Evening: Relaxing spa or wellness retreat to wind down from the day’s excitement.

Day 5 – City Exploration:

Morning: Explore the cityscape with a walking tour. Visit iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Afternoon: Lunch at a trendy urban eatery. Something Instagram-worthy, of course.
Evening: Attend a live performance—concert, theater, or a local band at a cozy venue.

Day 6 – Beach Day:

Morning: Head to a nearby beach for a leisurely morning stroll.
Afternoon: Beachside lunch with seafood delights and tropical vibes.
Evening: Bonfire on the beach with good music and great company.

Day 7 – Relax and Reflect:

Morning: Slow start with a lazy brunch at a relaxed cafe.
Afternoon: Visit a spa or wellness center for a pampering session.
Evening: Farewell dinner at a favorite local spot. Share stories, laughter, and savor the last moments of the trip.
This itinerary combines a mix of adventure, culture, culinary delights, and relaxation. We are ready for an epic week of fun and exploration.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My success and development as a person, educator and business women is the direct efforts of my parents and grandparents. Both parents were highly educated with advanced degrees in education and business. Their parents were educated and entrepreneurs as well. My mom’s parents, Carey and Mary Holmes opened The Blue Front Café in 1948 in Bentonia MS.. During the 1980s and ’90s the Blue Front Café became a tourist attraction to people who admired authentic blues music. Now my uncle Jimmy “Duck” Holmes operates and performs at the Blue Front Cafe and he was recently nominated for a Grammy. My dad’s mom was a teacher and his dad was the owner of a construction company in which a lot of the homes and businesses built in a small town called McComb, Ms- was built or driveways paved by my grandad. So- I thank my grandparents and parents for instilling the importance of education and courage to follow my dreams. I have learned so much from them and I thank them for the person I am today.

Website: www.thenationalliteracyinstitute.com

Instagram: thenationalliteracyinstitute

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ingrid-haynes-ph-d-973a67122

Twitter: @nlpdc2

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/literacyinstitute

Youtube: @dr.ingridhaynes4062

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