Using a learner-centered approach, Teaching to Transform works to guide teachers in discovering, exploring, and reflecting on students’ instructional needs. Our methods emphasize meeting students where they are in order to help them grow as writers. The foundation of our professional development is focused on establishing an authentic and enjoyable independent writing time, understanding writers' strengths and needs, and using data gathered from writers in a variety of ways to provide targeted instructional practices. Once teachers understand this foundational approach, the focus of training moves toward the actual techniques for instruction such as Shared Writing and Mini-lessons which incorporate Modeled Writing and Mentor texts.  This approach not only helps students grow as writers but also empowers teachers to provide focused and effective instruction for all students.