Best Michelle Rayburn Podcasts (2025)

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55. What Real Implementation Looks Like with Justin Browning, SOR for More 1:04:35

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1d ago1:04:35

1:04:35

We all know the saying “when you know better, you do better.” But what happens when we know better…and still don’t see the needle move in reading outcomes? In this episode of Literacy in Color, I sit down with Justin Browning, national literacy consultant and founder of SoR for More, to talk about the missing piece: implementation. Justin draws fro…

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A 5-step method for helping students read CVC words - with Pryor Rayburn 11:11

2d ago11:11

11:11

225: Do you have students who are struggling to read CVC words? You'll love the quick and practical tips that Pryor Rayburn shares in this episode! Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential Steps to Reach All Readers. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking for printable resources that align with the sci…

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54. Blending Strategies 16:44

8d ago16:44

16:44

Have you ever had a student rattle off the sounds in a word—/b/… /a/… /t/, only to say “tab,” “balloon,” or even “chicken”? If so, you’re not alone. And here’s the thing: these blending errors aren’t always decoding issues. Often, they’re tied to working memory. In this solo episode of Literacy in Color, we unpack why blending matters, what researc…

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How to promote orthographic mapping - with Michelle Sullivan 22:12

9d ago22:12

22:12

224: Michelle Sullivan joins me to discuss what orthographic mapping is and how we can promote it so our students become fluent readers and spellers. Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential Steps to Reach All Readers. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking for printable resources that align with the s…

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53. The High Frequency Word Project with Rebecca Loveless & Fiona Hamilton 59:05

15d ago59:05

59:05

What if high-frequency words aren’t “irregular” after all? In this episode of Literacy in Color, I sit down with Rebecca Loveless and Fiona Hamilton, co-authors of The High Frequency Word Project, to dig into the stories behind some of the most common words in English. Too often, these little “function words” get handed to students on flashcards wi…

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How to support oral language development - with Kim Lockhart 27:33

16d ago27:33

27:33

223: Kim Lockhart, an experienced teacher who currently teaches in a French immersion school, helps us understand why oral language development is so important. She shares practical ways for building oral language whether or not you're teaching children learning a second language. Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign up for my free master…

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52. Phonemic Awareness Research Unpacked with Dr. David Kilpatrick 1:10:32

22d ago1:10:32

1:10:32

In this pivotal episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle is joined by psychologist, professor, and reading researcher Dr. David Kilpatrick to untangle some hotly debated ideas surrounding phonemic awareness in the Science of Reading community. This conversation isn’t about taking sides in the “with letters vs. without letters” debate. It’s about gett…

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How to incorporate review into your phonics lessons - with Jessica Farmer 14:07

23d ago14:07

14:07

222: We know that reviewing the material we've taught is one of the most important things we can do in any subject area. Listen for practical ways to incorporate review into your phonics instruction! Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential Steps to Reach All Readers. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Loo…

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51. Rethinking Sight Words with Pryor Rayburn, Orton Gillingham Mama 36:59

29d ago36:59

36:59

In this episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle sits down with THE Orton Gillingham Mama, Pryor Rayburn to take a deep dive into the hot-button world of sight words and high-frequency word instruction. Pryor busts through common myths, clears up confusing terminology, and explores brain-based practices for teaching high frequency words through the l…

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[Listen again] Structured Word Inquiry - with Dr. Pete Bowers 1:25:07

1M ago1:25:07

1:25:07

Dr. Pete Bowers explains "structured word inquiry," an exciting type of instruction that engages learners of all ages in making sense of our (surprise!) logical spelling system. In this episode, Dr. Bowers shares the research behind morphology, explains why words typically called "irregular" are usually not, and advocates for morphology instruction…

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50. The Truth About Progress Monitoring: Myth Busting with Shannon Moore, Moore Literacy Leaps 46:14

1M ago46:14

46:14

In this episode, Michelle is joined by instructional coach and literacy specialist Shannon Moore of Moore Literacy Leaps to bust four major myths about progress monitoring in reading instruction. Together, they tackle what progress monitoring really is (and what it’s not), how it fits into the MTSS framework, and why all students, not just those be…

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[Listen again] An introduction to morphology - with Michelle Sullivan 45:14

1M ago45:14

45:14

This episode begins an exciting series about morphology! Michelle Sullivan, of The Colorful Classroom, defines basic morphology terms and gives practical ways to begin morphology instruction across the grades. Click here for the show notes from this episode. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential Steps to Reach All Readers. Get my book, Reach…

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When All Voices Sing 20:37

2M ago20:37

20:37

What happens when only some voices are heard—and the rest stay silent? In this episode of Midlife Repurposed, Michelle Rayburn uses the metaphor of a choir to explore what a “more perfect Union” really looks like. She reflects on how every voice matters—in our homes, workplaces, communities, and in our democracy—and why silencing others diminishes …

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49. Set for Variability with Jen Yagid and Wendy Darasz, Informed Literacy 34:36

1M ago34:36

34:36

What does it really mean to be “set for variability”? In this episode, Michelle is joined by Jen Yagid and Wendy Darasz of Informed Literacy to break down this complex-sounding but classroom-friendly concept. Together, they demystify set for variability, explore its role in decoding, and share practical classroom examples. If you’ve ever wondered h…

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[Listen again] Answers to all your questions about teaching handwriting - with Dr. Shawn Datchuk 49:48

1M ago49:48

49:48

Should we teach students to write upper or lowercase letters first? What's the best routine for practicing handwriting? How much time should students practice handwriting each day? Dr. Shawn Datchuk shares what the research says (and doesn't say) about these questions and more! Click here for the show notes from this episode. Sign up for my free ma…

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48. SOR Mini-Con 2025 Recap with Heidi Martin, Jessica Farmer & Yvette Manns 53:26

2M ago53:26

53:26

In this heartfelt roundtable episode, Michelle is joined by her Science of Reading sidekicks, Heidi Martin, Jessica Farmer, and Yvette Manns to reflect on the very first Science of Reading Mini-Con! From spark-filled sessions to swag bags and sound baths, this conversation is full of gratitude, laughter, and heartfelt takeaways. They revisit each s…

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[Listen again] Which literacy assessments are worth your and your students' time? - with Sean Morrisey 43:49

2M ago43:49

43:49

Sean Morrisey, former school psychologist turned fifth grade teacher, walks us through the many different literacy assessments teachers administer. Which are useful, and which are a waste of time? You'll love this practical episode! Click here for the show notes from this episode. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential Steps to Reach All Read…

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47. Why Representation in Children’s Books Matters—Especially for Black Boys with Tiffany Obeng, Sugar Cookie Books 33:26

2M ago33:26

33:26

In this powerful episode of Literacy in Color, I’m joined by lawyer-turned-author Tiffany Obeng, founder of Sugar Cookie Books. Together, we unpack the significance of representation in children’s literature, especially for Black boys, and how her “Andrew Learns” series is challenging the traditional narratives and creating space for all kids to fe…

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How to implement the science of reading with young learners - with Amie Burkholder 26:01

2M ago26:01

26:01

221: What should K-2 teachers know about teaching phonemic awareness, phonics, handwriting, and more? Teacher and author Amie Burkholder gives us practical tips in this quick and powerful episode! Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential Steps to Reach All Readers. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Lookin…

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46. Making Words Stick with Dr. Molly Ness on Orthographic Mapping 37:32

2M ago37:32

37:32

In this powerful episode, we welcome back Dr. Molly Ness, literacy researcher, educator, and co-author of “Making Words Stick”, the latest release from the Scholastic Science of Reading in Practice series. Together with Dr. Katie Pace Miles, Molly has created a teacher-friendly guide to help educators understand orthographic mapping and implement a…

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A lively discussion about syntax, grammar, and punctuation - with Lyn Stone 47:05

2M ago47:05

47:05

220: I take every opportunity I can to learn from Lyn Stone, so I was thrilled to sit down and "rapid fire" questions I had after reading the wonderful second edition of her book, Language for Life. I promise you'll be entertained and come away with new understandings after listening to this episode! Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign u…

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45. A Global Lens on Morphology, Etymology & Literacy Instruction with Dr. Treasa Bowe 56:57

2M ago56:57

56:57

In this episode of Literacy in Color, we’re heading across the pond to Ireland for a powerful conversation with Dr. Treasa Bowe, an international literacy leader and passionate advocate for morphology, etymology, and meaningful instruction. With over two decades of teaching experience in both Ireland and the U.S., Dr. Bowe brings a truly global len…

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Thoughtfully meeting the needs of advanced readers - with Dr. Amanda Nickerson 38:45

2M ago38:45

38:45

219: Advanced readers often get overlooked. Dr. Amanda Nickerson helps us understand how we can nurture these students and help them reach their fullest potential within the MTSS framework. Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential Steps to Reach All Readers. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking for p…

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44. 4 Warm-Up Drills for Effective Phonics Instruction 17:42

3M ago17:42

17:42

In this episode of Literacy in Color, we’re diving into 4 quick, high-impact phonics drills that spark engagement and build automaticity, without eating up your entire lesson time. These warm-ups aren’t about “drill and kill.” Instead, they’re short, intentional routines that help students review and retrieve previously taught phonics content. Whet…

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[Listen again] "I didn't believe him" - How one mom learned that her son's school wasn't teaching him to read - with Dr. Irene Daria 40:34

3M ago40:34

40:34

183: Irene's kindergarten son was attending a prestigious Manhattan public school. When he told her that the school wasn't teaching him to read, she didn't believe him. When she finally realized he was right, she set out on a challenging journey to save his academic life. You won't want to miss this one! Click here for the show notes from this epis…

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43. Rock Your Literacy Block with Lindsay Kemeny 34:58

3M ago34:58

34:58

In this episode of Literacy in Color, I’m joined by the incredible Lindsay Kemeny, a trusted voice in the Science of Reading community and author of Seven Mighty Moves and Rock Your Literacy Block. Lindsay shares her journey into structured literacy, sparked by her son’s dyslexia diagnosis, and how that led to a complete transformation in her teach…

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[Listen again] All about teaching English Spelling - with Dr. Louisa Moats 35:16

3M ago35:16

35:16

151: What an honor to speak with Dr. Louisa Moats about the English language! She explains why it's so important to teach spelling, why English isn't as irregular as some think, the usefulness and limitation of syllable types, and how to help students who struggle with spelling. Dr. Moats is a treasure! Click here for the show notes from this episo…

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42. Is the Science of Reading for Multilingual Learners? with Alejandra Ramirez 37:12

3M ago37:12

37:12

In this episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle sits down with Alejandra Ramirez, a seasoned bilingual educator, reading coordinator, and literacy leader, to explore one of the most important questions in today’s classrooms: Is the Science of Reading for Multilingual Learners? With over a decade of experience in dual language programs and extensive …

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What to say to your child's teacher when your child is struggling with learning to read - with Michelle Henderson 43:50

3M ago43:50

43:50

218: Are you concerned about your child's lack of progress in learning to read? Michelle Henderson, reading specialist and parent coach, explains what rights you have and offers advice for gently (and firmly) addressing the issue with your child's teacher. This episode is for any parent who has concerns about their child's reading progress. Click h…

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41. Small Groups Aligned with the Science of Reading with Christina Winter, Lead in Literacy 44:48

3M ago44:48

44:48

In this episode of Literacy in Color, I’m joined by my dear friend, Christina Winter from Lead in Literacy. Together, we dive into one of the hottest topics in structured literacy: small group instruction. While some Science of Reading conversations debate whether small groups have a place in the literacy block, Christina reminds us that when done …

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"There's research for that!" - with Dr. Heidi Anne Mesmer & Dr. Katie Hilden 55:15

3M ago55:15

55:15

217: What does it mean when we say that research supports a specific practice? And what DOES research say about decodable text, comprehension strategies, phonemic awareness, and more? Dr. Heidi Anne Mesmer and Dr. Katie Tilden join us to discuss their new book, There's Research for That, and how research can answer common questions teachers ask as …

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40. Why Read-Alouds Matter: Equity, Comprehension, and Book Access with Dr. Molly Ness 42:49

4M ago42:49

42:49

In this powerful episode of Literacy in Color, we are joined by Dr. Molly Ness to explore the deep impact of read-alouds, particularly think-alouds, as well as book access.. Dr. Ness, educator, author of Read Aloud for All Learners, and host of the End Book Deserts podcast, brings her research, experience, and passion to this conversation about how…

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What do students need to learn, and what do only teachers need to know? - with Dr. Devin Kearns 36:38

4M ago36:38

36:38

216: Have we overcorrected in our enthusiasm for structured literacy? Dr. Kearns challenges teachers to find the right balance between what students need to know versus what technical knowledge belongs solely in a teacher's toolkit. A thought-provoking listen! Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential St…

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39. Mastering Morphology - Introducing Logos Literacy Academy with Sarah Paul & Michelle Sullivan 37:06

4M ago37:06

37:06

In this special episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle is joined by her brilliant friend, Sarah Paul, to officially unveil their new course: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every Educator. Together, Michelle and Sarah share the backstory behind their collaboration (Logos Literacy Academy), reflect on their own morphology journeys, and talk ca…

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Anything but boring: The power of direct instruction - with Dr. Zach Groshell 52:26

4M ago52:26

52:26

215: Dr. Zach Groshell explains what direct instruction is and why it's so effective for student learning. He also shares specific classroom strategies teachers can start using right away. Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential Steps to Reach All Readers. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking for pr…

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38. Tier 1 Engagement Strategies with Jake Daggett 57:39

4M ago57:39

57:39

I’m joined by the one and only Jake Daggett—educator, foundational literacy director, and all-around engagement strategist. If you've ever seen his viral phonics videos, you already know the energy and intentionality he brings to instruction. But there’s more to Jake than claps and chants—he’s deeply rooted in brain-based research and committed to …

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How to use the MTSS framework to transform school reading achievement - with Dr. Sarah Brown & Dr. Stephanie Stollar 43:19

4M ago43:19

43:19

214: Dr. Sarah Brown and Dr. Stephanie Stollar join me to talk about implementing the science of reading through the MTSS framework. We define MTSS, discuss practical tips for implementation, and address things to avoid. Be sure to get their new book, MTSS for Reading Improvement. Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign up for my free master…

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37. The Impact of Language and Leadership in Literacy with Dr. Danielle 'Nell' Thompson, The Transformative Reading Teacher Group 1:00:17

4M ago1:00:17

1:00:17

In this deeply moving episode, Dr. Danielle “Nell” Thompson shares her powerful journey from a small town in North Dakota to Bush Alaska, all the way to becoming a transformational coach and the founder of the Big Sky Literacy Summit. Together, we explore how language is the foundation of literacy—not just for academic success, but for human connec…

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The principal's role in using MTSS to improve reading outcomes - with Sharon Dunn 43:38

4M ago43:38

43:38

213: Sharon Dunn, a former principal of a high-poverty school, shares the process that she and her staff used to drastically improve reading outcomes. This episode offers a blueprint for principals looking to lead meaningful reading improvement in their own schools. Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essent…

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36. Tips for Teaching the Alphabet with Heidi Martin, Droppin' Knowledge with Heidi 40:06

4M ago40:06

40:06

In this episode of Literacy in Color, I’m chatting with Heidi Martin—also known as Droppin’ Knowledge with Heidi—to unpack what research says about effective alphabet instruction. Together, we explore common debates, research-based tips, and engaging strategies to teach the alphabet more effectively. From ditching letter-of-the-week traditions to e…

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[Listen again] How to use assessment data within MTSS - with Dr. Stephanie Stollar 33:50

5M ago33:50

33:50

Dr. Stephanie Stollar has been supporting schools to use MTSS to improve reading outcomes for more than 25 years. She explains the importance of using screening data to reflect the effectiveness of Tier 1 instruction, how to use assessment data to form differentiated small groups, and how to avoid common mistakes that schools make when implementing…

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35. Why Transcription Skills Matter in Early Writing Instruction with Amy Siracusano 49:37

5M ago49:37

49:37

In this insightful episode, I sit down with literacy expert, Amy Siracusano, to unpack the critical role that transcription skills play in early writing development. Together, we explore why handwriting, spelling, and fine motor skills aren’t just mechanical tasks—they’re foundational tools that unlock a child’s ability to communicate their thought…

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What is the science of implementation? - with Laura Stewart 52:14

5M ago52:14

52:14

212: How do we bridge research to classroom practice? The answer lies in the science of implementation. Laura Stewart walks us through the five stages of implementation - this episode is a must-listen for anyone whose school is ready for change! Click here for this episode's show notes. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential Steps to Reach Al…

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34. Orthographic Mapping, Sight Words & High-Frequency Words: What Every Teacher Should Know 17:33

5M ago17:33

17:33

In this solo episode of Literacy in Color, we’re cutting through the confusion around sight words, high-frequency words, and orthographic mapping. You’ll get a clear, research-backed understanding of how the brain actually learns words — and why traditional memorization strategies just don’t cut it. Michelle breaks down why every word "wants to gro…

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Why implementation is the missing piece - with Justin Browning 53:50

5M ago53:50

53:50

211: Implementation specialist Justin Browning joins me to discuss the challenges of implementation, the importance of strong leadership, and what really matters for lasting change. Click here for the show notes from this episode. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential Steps to Reach All Readers. Get my book, Reach All Readers! Looking for pr…

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33. Spelling Error Analysis with Sydney Bassard, The Listening SLP 31:18

5M ago31:18

31:18

What can spelling errors really tell us about a student’s literacy development? In this episode of Literacy in Color, I sit down with Sydney Bassard, speech-language pathologist and founder of The Listening SLP, to dig into the power of spelling error analysis. Sydney breaks down the five types of spelling errors teachers should be aware of, explai…

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[Listen again] How to use assessment data to inform instruction - with Rachel Beiswanger 28:43

5M ago28:43

28:43

In today's episode, special education coach Rachel Beiswanger explains how she uses assessment data when deciding what to teach her students. We list screening measures and list specific things you can do if students are scoring below benchmark. I list all the details in the show notes, so be sure to check them out! Click here for this episode's sh…

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32. Crafting High-Quality Decodable Books with Brooke Vitale, Charge Mommy Books 37:31

5M ago37:31

37:31

In this episode of Literacy in Color, I'm joined by Brooke Vitale—veteran children’s book editor, author, and founder of Charge Mommy Books—to explore the art and science behind writing truly high-quality decodable books. With over 15+ years in publishing (including experience at Penguin and Disney!), Brooke brings a deep understanding of storytell…

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The power of Quick Writes - in any grade! - with Shauna Cotte 46:37

5M ago46:37

46:37

210: You'll love this practical episode, in which Shauna Cotte emphasizes that Quick Writes are brief, informal writing tasks designed to help students process and reflect on content. Best of all - you can use them in any grade! Click here for the show notes from this episode. Sign up for my free masterclass, 5 Essential Steps to Reach All Readers.…

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31. Stop the Robotic Reading – Building Fluency with MeQuel Bolden 22:41

6M ago22:41

22:41

In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by literacy coach and consultant MeQuel Bolden. With over a decade of classroom experience and a deep commitment to structured literacy, MeQuel shares insight into what reading fluency really is—and what it’s not. We unpack common fluency misconceptions, dive into what’s happening in the brain when students…