Science of Reading Leadership

In this episode of Science of Reading Leadership, our hosts Dr. Christy Lamb and Terri K. Hunt, M.Ed., sit down with Jeff McCoy, the associate superintendent for academics at Greenville County Schools, to discuss the evolution of literacy in South Carolina, and the role of the science of reading in accelerating reading achievement. Jeff shares his insights on the journey of transitioning from the balanced literacy model to emphasizing the science of reading, the critical role of family involvement in the literacy journey, the impact of LETRS training on teachers and administrators, and the district's strategic approach to literacy development. Jeff's emphasis on patience and flexibility as key leadership actions makes this conversation an insightful and valuable resource for educators and district leaders. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives and practical strategies for transforming literacy instruction.Timestamps00:00 Transition from classroom to edtech; innovative role.05:10 Addressed literacy challenges through honesty and phonics recognition.08:56 Emphasizing the science of reading in the literacy framework.12:38 Teachers feel more equipped to diagnose reading.14:11 Teachers receive instructional feedback, enhancing reading instruction.18:33 Engaging parents in summer and school support.21:25 The Support system emphasizes all 3 tiers. Intervention expansion.23:34 Encourage patience and flexibility in teacher development.Connect with Jeff McCoyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmccoygcs/Website: https://www.greenville.k12.sc.us/

In this episode, we unravel the intricacies of language and literacy and how they are interwoven in the fabric of early childhood education. Lucy elucidates the pivotal role that professional learning and practical tools play in following the science of reading to bolster children's literacy learning. Together, we explore how the synergy of reading and writing not only enhances cognitive growth but also enriches content learning across disciplines.Prepare to be enlightened by Lucy's perspective on motivational teaching methods, such as using decodable books to empower children with the magic of reading. Hear first-hand accounts of the profound impact that comes when young readers realize the functional power of writing to communicate their imagination to the world.Additionally, Lucy sheds light on the "picture story, word story" routine and the magic of modeling written language at appropriate levels to honor the learning stages of children. We discuss the essence of decodable text in early classrooms and why it's crucial for making purposeful connections between the alphabet and sounds.And for educational leaders hungry for actionable insights, stay tuned as Lucy reveals two key strategies to accelerate reading achievement, emphasizing the foundational role of phonological awareness and the alphabetic principle.Timestamps00:00 Studying language and literacy, sharing research experiences.05:10 Educators need a strong foundation in language development.09:12 Understanding of alphabet, phonological awareness, phonics principle.12:33 Interacting with educators, focus on literacy education.15:25 Writing linked to reading enhances childhood development.19:33 Children learn to write through an experimental approach.20:23 Modeling language at children's writing levels is crucial.23:36 Decodable text relates to early childhood learning.27:36 A Teacher's role in literacy is crucial.Connect with Lucy Hart Paulson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-hart-paulson-263a1264/

In today's episode of the Science of Reading Leadership Podcast, we've had the privilege of welcoming Dr. Fabian H. Cone, an exemplary figure in educational leadership, currently steering the Office of Academics at Broward County Public Schools. Dr. Cone's illustrious career spans over 25 years, with roles that have significantly impacted K-12 education, from an elementary educator across grades 3 to 5, to an assistant principal, and a principal supervisor. His comprehensive involvement in the district's professional learning continuum underscores his dedication to instructional staff development, embodying a journey of continuous growth and commitment to excellence in education.Our discussion ventured into the transformative initiatives led by Dr. Cone, particularly focusing on the integration of the science of reading across Broward County Public Schools. His insights into the district's approach to literacy, emphasizing the crucial blend of theory and practice, offer an enlightening perspective on educational leadership. By fostering a culture of high expectations and leveraging a strategic rollout of professional learning, Dr. Cone's work exemplifies a steadfast commitment to elevating instructional standards and student achievement. His narrative not only inspires but also serves as a guiding beacon for educators aiming to make a profound impact in the realm of education.Timestamps00:00 Educator's 27 years; broke diversity barrier. Large district.06:01 Maintained successful school, now cultivating teacher leaders.07:36 Teachers used inadequate materials, students suffered academically.10:33 Improving reading skills through science-based instruction.14:35 Supporting teachers and triaging priority schools.20:02 Professional learning outcomes guide support and evaluation.24:13 Principals support teacher training for student improvement.27:45 Community support and aligned materials for reading.31:02 Challenge status quo, prioritize, commit, rally support.Connect with Dr. Fabian ConeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fabian-cone-a267a429Website: https://www.browardschools.com/Page/75570

In our latest episode of Science of Reading Leadership, we've been graced with the insightful presence of Dr. John Hutton, a pediatrician at Cincinnati Children's Hospital and Director of the Reading and Literacy Discovery Center. Dr. Hutton has also made his mark as an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at UT Southwestern and Dallas Children's Hospital. His pioneering research utilizes MRI technology to delve into the impact of home reading environments and screen time on the developing brains of young children. This groundbreaking work, which first highlighted these effects before kindergarten, has gained national attention, underscoring its significance in the realm of pediatric health literacy.Dr. Hutton's contributions extend beyond his research; he has authored 29 children's books, many of which promote health themes, demonstrating his commitment to fostering early literacy. His journey into this field was unexpected, initially resisting the paths of a doctor or scientist, only to embrace both roles later. Dr. Hutton's passion for literacy was fueled by his personal experiences as a parent, finding joy in reading with his daughters and recognizing the disparities in book access and reading practices he observed in his pediatric clinic. His dedication to understanding and improving early literacy is not just academic; it's a personal mission that resonates with the values and experiences of families and educators alike.Timestamps00:00 Father's love for reading inspired his career.06:10 High-tech studies confirm reading promotes brain development.10:17 Encouraging children to enjoy non-screen activities.12:42 Find routine, keep trying, build joyful reading.17:14 Interactive books promote grown-up, child interaction.20:49 Encourage fun reading for kids with variety.23:32 Balancing traditional books and technology for kids.26:44 Promoting joyful reading, increasing diversity, coaching families.Connect with Dr. John HuttonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-hutton-702980a8Website: https://profiles.utsouthwestern.edu/profile/226447/john-hutton.html

In this invigorating episode of our podcast, we've had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Laura Tortorelli, an esteemed associate professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Michigan State University. Known for her profound scholarship that delves into the realms of how and who teachers teach, Dr. Tortorelli's focus on bridging the gap between research and practice in reading education is nothing short of inspiring. With her research grounded in developmental perspectives and critical quantitative inquiry, she investigates the various tests, texts, and technological tools that shape reading instruction in elementary classrooms, particularly focusing on the impact these elements have on children labeled as struggling readers. Her accolades include multiple awards and publications in various reading journals, reflecting her active involvement in literacy initiatives across Michigan.During the podcast, Dr. Tortorelli shared insights into her journey from a creative writing enthusiast to an educator passionately committed to teaching reading. Her story began with a love for reading, which initially led her to pursue creative writing. However, her experience teaching creative writing to young children revealed to her the fundamental importance of reading in education. This realization prompted her to shift her focus and pursue a degree in teaching reading, driven by the desire to empower children with the tools to access enriching literature. Dr. Tortorelli's experience underscores the intricate relationship between reading and writing, highlighting how each skill enriches the other. Her commitment to improving reading fluency and comprehension in children, particularly in the context of informational texts, stands out as a testament to her dedication to fostering a generation of proficient and enthusiastic readers.Timestamps00:00 Teaching kids poetry, emphasizing the importance of reading.05:54 Children need practice to develop reading fluency.06:48 Repeated reading with purpose improves reading skills.10:16 Support in fluency through various reading strategies.16:06 Reading and writing together benefit fluency and skills.19:54 Sentence frames depend on your writing goal.23:10 Children may substitute words when reading.26:52 Integrate language skills for better reading comprehension.29:14 Ensure high-quality, structured phonics instruction with practice.Connect with Dr. Laura TortorelliLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-tortorelli-1b046619Website: https://education.msu.edu/people/Tortorelli-Laura/

In this episode, Sara and Dr. Reutzel explore the intricate journey of learning and teaching reading. Dr. Reutzel, a distinguished senior research fellow at Utah State University and an emeritus member at the University of Wyoming, shares his rich experience in the field, spanning over 235 published works and significant contributions to the Science of Reading. Dr. Reutzel shares his personal experiences, challenges, and breakthroughs in the field, providing listeners with a unique perspective on reading education. From his early days as an elementary school teacher to his influential research on story mapping and phonics, his journey is inspiring and educational.Timestamps05:48 Whole language approach led to phonics success.10:37 Varied review improves memory in diverse classrooms.12:58 Neuroscience research supports distributed and interleaved practice benefits.17:16 Importance of certain letters over others.20:56 Writing deepens knowledge and memory retrieval.25:35 The importance of teaching briskly and focusing on building knowledge effectively.26:24 Groundwork for understanding language, sounds, and words.32:11 Science of reading facilitates student success and progress.33:16 Desire to promote reading unifies everyone.Connect with Dr. Ray ReutzelLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/d-ray-reutzel-402579a/

In this episode, our co-hosts, Dr. Christy Lamb and Terri K. Hunt, M.Ed., are joined by Zaretta Hammond, CEO of Transformative Learning Solutions. Together, they delve into the crucial topic of literacy and culturally responsive teaching. Hammond emphasizes the need for educators to create an environment that supports students to excel in reading and underscores the importance of reimagining professional learning for teachers. The conversation also addresses the challenges of addressing reading achievement gaps for African-American, indigenous, and multilingual students. Listeners can expect a deep dive into the role of district leaders in promoting effective reading instruction and the significance of understanding culturally responsive teaching in the context of literacy. Stay tuned for a thought-provoking discussion that explores the intersection of reading, education, and culturally responsive teaching.Timestamps05:38 Defining psychological safety in education to create equity.06:56 Culturally responsive teaching creates conditions for learning.13:27 Collectivist culture emphasizes engagement in classrooms.14:23 Large groups of minority students face challenges.18:57 Hammond discusses competitive culture, contrast of analysis, and linguistic diversity.22:39 Teaching advanced decoding and syllabication through professional development to better support reading development.24:41 Culturally responsive teaching is about instructional decision-making.27:18 Discussion around instilling the love of reading in children.30:30 Potential of overselling reading as teachers, but still feeling it’s worth the effort for the students.36:45 Emphasizing word study to engage student interest.Connect with Zaretta HammondLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zaretta-hammond-2b122ba/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ready4rigor Website: https://www.transformative.in/ 

In this episode, our hosts Dr. Christy Lamb and Terri K. Hunt, M.Ed., engage in a conversation with Dr. Alfred Tatum, a leading authority in African American boys' literacy development. Dr. Tatum shares his journey from finance to education, driven by a passion to address the challenges faced by Black boys in Chicago. Throughout the episode, our hosts and Dr. Tatum delves into the crucial role of texts, writing, and intentional selection of literature in advancing literacy development. They discuss fostering a love for reading in children, the need for a cultural shift in reading assessments, and the importance of creating inclusive and caring environments for students. Together, they explore topics such as the intersection of the science of reading and knowledge development and promoting growth and advancement for students. They also explore the topic of addressing the needs of struggling adolescent readers. Join us in this thought-provoking episode as Dr. Tatum offers valuable insights and expertise, inspiring us to reexamine our approaches to literacy education.Timestamps05:22 Dr. Tatum talks about his most recent research projects around text and writing, and how text has served as a historical tool for protection, empowerment, and connection for Black men07:53 Exalting students to prevent failure in education.10:29 Seeking texts for holistic academic and equity, considering access and diversity.14:49 Mediating text to protect student identities and communities.16:55 Nation striving for balanced literacy equation understanding.21:22 The importance of encouraging rich conversations, reading, and joyful learning.25:37 Discussion of instances of data not being used for good.Connect with Dr. Alfred TatumTwitter: https://twitter.com/alfredtatum?lang=en Website: https://red.msudenver.edu/expert/tatum-alfred/ 

In this episode, we are thrilled to have Dr. Matthew Burns as our guest. Dr. Burns is a Rose & Irving Fein Endowed Professor of Special Education and Assistant Director of UFLI and has extensive experience as both a practitioner and an academic. Throughout our conversation, we delve into the fascinating world of tiered interventions, RTI, and MTSS, and explore how data-driven practices can improve reading outcomes for students. We begin by discussing the importance of tier 1 interventions, focusing on class-wide strategies based on screening data. Dr. Burns emphasizes the significance of accurately grouping students and providing targeted interventions in tier 2, acknowledging that traditional ways of grouping students based on reading levels may not be effective in addressing individual needs. Moving on, we explore the relationship between RTI and MTSS, and how data analysis through Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) can drive effective small-group instruction. Dr. Burns shares insights on the science of the reading movement and the need for critical evaluation of research sources to make evidence-based decisions. The conversation then shifts towards dyslexia, its identification, and the importance of improved reading instruction rather than solely focusing on identification. Dr. Burns highlights the significance of individualized instruction for dyslexic students, while also discussing the ongoing legislative and advocacy efforts surrounding dyslexia.As the episode progresses, we dive into the role of morphology in language and its implications for learning, along with the need for a deeper understanding of phonemic awareness. Dr. Burns provides valuable resources, including his YouTube channel and Google Scholar, for accessing research articles and teaching strategies in the field of reading achievement.Timestamps02:26 Transition from teaching to research for greater impact.04:56 Dr. Burns discusses his adviser, grad school, special education, instructional support, and positive effects in his research.09:45 Poor reading instruction leads to not being able to provide support to students with dyslexia.13:11 Targeted interventions improved the academic performance of certain kids.16:35 RTI and MTSS are not synonymous terms. RTI is the process of using data from an NTSS system to identify a learning disability. RTI requires an existing MTSS.18:42 Simple view of reading works, effective techniques: teaching phonics, vocabulary, text structure, morphology. Important for student development at different ages.20:56 Advocacy work promotes change through accessible information.25:34 Research on morphology and language's role.31:19 Identify skill gaps, target instruction, and spur growth.Connect with Dr. Matthew BurnsWebsite: https://neurology.ufl.edu/

Join us on this educational journey as we dive into the heart of the Science of Reading with Sara Rich, the founder and CEO of Just Right Reader, in our latest Science of Reading Leadership podcast. Sara brings an inspiring passion for reading to the table, focusing our discussion on the Science of Reading’s role in guiding literacy instruction to accelerate student success.Her mission is to make reading fun and accessible for all students with research-based, engaging, and relatable decodable books that are representative of students in America’s schools. Sara takes us behind the scenes of partnering with literacy experts to craft top-tier decodables, creating an authentic and successful reading experience for students. It's the story of a company with a passion for partnering with educators and families to support students as they become confident, lifelong readers.Throughout our conversation, it's clear that Just Right Reader is reimagining the educational landscape, one student at a time, with a focus on closing the opportunity gap. Tune in to discover how they're not only changing how children learn to read but also transforming the joy and ease with which they do so.Timestamps[00:01:49] How Sara Rich is promoting reading instruction through science and collaboration.[00:05:58] Why Just Right Reader decided to start a podcast: to share innovations in reading achievement products & latest research for the science of reading.[00:09:52] Created products based on child-focused research.[00:13:16] Focused on the journey, serving kids, and making decisions.[00:14:16] Expanded the selection of Spanish children's books for stronger readers.Connect with Sara RichLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-shenkan-rich-32a85447/ Website: https://justrightreader.com/