Welcome! My name is Madlen Brauner, and my greatest joys in life are my kids and teaching writing.

After eight amazing years as a 7th grade English teacher in Orange County, California, I took some time off to be a stay-at-home parent to my two awesome kids, Barb and Archie.

In 2024, I began developing a series of private writing and reading workshops with the goal of inspiring middle school students to develop a love of literacy. These workshops are designed to be inspiring, impactful, and fun. Groups are kept intentionally small to cultivate a trusting, safe environment in which students are encouraged to be open and take creative risks.

Beyond a love of teaching and working with kids, my credentials include:

• Eight years experience teaching middle school English in an independent school setting

• A Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of San Diego

• A Single-Subject Credential in English from UC Irvine

• A Master of Arts in Teaching from UC Irvine

Additionally, I am a 2013 fellow of the UC Irvine Writing Project, and have freelance written and copyedited for various magazines over the years.

My workshop lessons are primarily adapted from and inspired by the 3rd edition of Carol Booth Olson’s The Reading/Writing Connection: Strategies for Teaching and Learning in the Secondary Classroom, with personal additions and adjustments made through my own years of classroom experience.

More information regarding workshops can be found in the FAQ section. I will happily answer any additional questions by email or phone. Click here to get in touch.