About Me

With over 20 years of experience in the New York City Department of Education, I began my career as a Special Education teacher eventually expanding my expertise by serving as a Peer Collaborative Teacher, a Model Lab Site, a Literacy Specialist, and an Instructional Coach.

In 2016, I launched Independent Literacy Evaluation, focusing initially on literacy-based tutoring. This gradually evolved into offering comprehensive evaluations paired with actionable plans for parents to implement. 

My approach centers around creating sustainable literacy practices and routines that make sense for each individual family while helping parents understand the connections between assessments, grade levels, and skills. 

My evaluation reports have played a critical role as evidence in NPS reimbursement litigation cases. I have been honored to serve as an expert witness in these proceedings that have helped families receive much needed support.

In 2020, I collaborated with NYU and PACH (The Project for the Advancement of Our Common Humanity) to create the Listening Project curriculum. This innovative program is now implemented in DOE public schools and private schools throughout New York City.

Today, Independent Literacy Evaluation is proudly based in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. We offer a variety of services including Parent Workshops, Tutoring, Special Events, and Consultations. As a parent of three children, I understand the importance of flexibility in scheduling, grouping, and instruction—our services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of families, whether in our Bay Ridge location, at your home, or online.

Founder 

Diana Zakow 

M.A. Literacy Specialist Grades 5-12, New York University, NY 2007

M.A. Special Education Birth-21, New York University, NY 2004

B.A. Bard College, NY 2001

New York University, Paris 1999

L'École des Beaux Arts, Paris 1999

Wilson Language System Level I Certification 2007

Languages: English, French, Polish

Reiki Certified, SRW Practitioner