The Apron Ladies began as a collective idea to help teachers guide young readers to successful literacy. Beth Stevens, Terri Heidger, and Rachel Chappell are three Sarasota County, FL teachers who share common educational experiences, values and vision. They then started a small business (The Apron Ladies) based on an original idea and philosophy of how young readers develop into strategic readers. The Good Reader Apron is a tool for teachers to build good readers one block at a time. The ladies have received degrees in reading, exceptional education, and elementary education with a combined educational experience of over 50 years.

The Apron Ladies have expanded their product line to include math, writing and comprehension "smart smocks" as well as Table-Top Strategies, Phonics Phones and "Read-It-Write" wristbands.

In addition to teaching, the gals have enjoyed presenting at the Florida Reading Association National Conferences, the International Reading Association National Conferences and at local conferences across the state. They also provide literacy training for schools and districts across the country.

Beth, Terri and Rachel have also co-authored several educational publications.