Best Jeff Pendleton Podcasts (2025)

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Oklahoma Edition: Science of Reading, Community, and Equity in Education with Kathy Hunt 25:45

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2d ago25:45

25:45

In this episode of The Literacy Mindset Podcast, Jeff Pendleton talks with Kathy Hunt, a veteran educator and reading interventionist, about transforming literacy instruction through small, consistent shifts in classroom practice. Hunt shares how her journey from a traditional teacher to a literacy coach reshaped her understanding of what strugglin…

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Navigating the Literacy Spectrum: K-12 Strategies and Innovation at South Fayette 32:06

3d ago32:06

32:06

In this episode of The Literacy Mindset Podcast, Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. Michelle Miller, a seasoned literacy leader, to explore how intentional, research-based strategies can transform student reading success. Dr. Miller shares her journey from classroom teacher to district-level administrator, revealing the pivotal moments that shaped h…

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Oklahoma Edition: Embracing Intervention and Individualization in Rural Education 21:45

9d ago21:45

21:45

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton speaks with Richard Kirksey, the newly appointed principal at Moreland High School in rural northwest Oklahoma. With a background that spans corporate creative work, multimedia design, and classroom teaching, Richard brings a unique perspective to educational leadership—one rooted in storytel…

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The Role of Digital and Physical Libraries in Modern Literacy Instruction 25:00

10d ago25:00

25:00

In this episode, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Josh Aston, Director of Secondary Curriculum at Atascadero Unified School District in California, to explore what it takes to foster literacy in today’s evolving educational landscape. Josh shares his journey from small-town Idaho social studies teacher to curriculum director on the California coa…

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Rethinking Foundational Skills and Fluency Across Grade Levels 23:20

18d ago23:20

23:20

In this special episode from our Oklahoma miniseries, hosts Jeff and MindPlay CEO Jeff Pendleton sit down with Dr. Susan Wray, principal of Wellston Elementary School in Wellston, Oklahoma. Dr. Ray brings a unique perspective with her background in both science and elementary education, as well as experience working at the state level. Together, th…

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From Spanish Class to Special Ed: Dr. Michael Taylor on Literacy for All 24:25

17d ago24:25

24:25

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, Dr. Michael Taylor, Director of Special Education for Bryant School District in Arkansas, shares how his unique journey—from high school Spanish teacher to special education leader—shapes his approach to literacy and learning. Dr. Taylor dives into why language development in early childhood is a critical predic…

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Oklahoma Edition: Creating Literacy Equity Through Special Education & Community Collaboration 24:09

25d ago24:09

24:09

In this episode from our Oklahoma series, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Susan L. Jones, Director of Special Education at Marlow Public Schools in Oklahoma. With a background that spans from deaf education interpreting to leading district-wide special education efforts, Susan brings a deeply human perspective on literacy equity, early intervent…

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Innovative Approaches to Literacy: Balancing Core Curriculum and Student Needs 34:34

24d ago34:34

34:34

In this episode of Literacy Mindset with Dr. Lisa Hill, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. Lisa Hill, Director of Instruction at Canyon ISD in Texas, for an insightful conversation about what it truly takes to develop strong readers and writers in our schools. Dr. Hill dives into her district’s approach to core instruction, emphasizing the impo…

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Oklahoma Edition :Rebuilding Literacy, SEL, and Instructional Equity in Rural Oklahoma with Dr Bobbi Gillham 22:42

1M ago22:42

22:42

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton talks with Dr. Bobbi Gillham, principal of Pansy Kidd Middle School in Poteau Public Schools, Oklahoma. Dr. Gillham brings 27 years of experience and a multifaceted career across elementary, curriculum leadership, and now middle school leadership. Her passion for literacy, data-driven instruc…

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Fostering Biliteracy and Collaboration in Schools with Dr. Patricia Mondragón-Doty 32:18

1M ago32:18

32:18

Welcome to another episode of MindPlay’s Literacy Mindset, where we dive into the heart of education with leaders who are shaping the future of literacy. In this episode, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. Patricia Mondragón-Doty, Director of Instruction, Curriculum, and Assessment at California’s Oak Grove School District. Patricia brings a we…

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Oklahoma Edition: Empowering Middle School Literacy Through Creativity and Community 22:33

1M ago22:33

22:33

In this special Oklahoma Edition of The Literacy Mindset Podcast, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Blaine Wise, Principal of Glenpool Middle School in Oklahoma, to explore how passion-driven leadership and creative collaboration are driving real results in student literacy. Wise shares his personal journey from social studies teacher to principal…

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Innovation Meets Literacy: Grounding EdTech in Human Connection with Danieli Parker 34:12

1M ago34:12

34:12

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton is joined by Danieli Parker, Director of Innovation and Instructional Technology at Hallsville ISD in East Texas, for a no-fluff, all-substance conversation on how to elevate literacy without losing the foundational skills that make reading stick. Parker shares how her district balances instr…

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Implementing Evidence-Based Literacy and AI: Dr. Jim Masters’ Journey in Kentucky Schools 28:31

1M ago28:31

28:31

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. Jim Masters, superintendent of Henry County Public Schools in Kentucky, to unpack a roadmap for real, data-driven literacy transformation. With nearly three decades in education—and a track record of turning around school performance—Dr. Masters reveals why culture must come bef…

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Making Literacy Number One: Strategies and Realities from Leavenworth Schools 27:22

2M ago27:22

27:22

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. Kellen J. Adams, superintendent of Leavenworth USD in Kansas, to unpack what it really means to place literacy at the heart of a school district’s mission. With a unique blend of military-influenced demographics, generational roots, and socioeconomic challenges, Leavenworth stan…

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Bridging Policy and Practice for Better Outcomes in Special Education 30:48

2M ago30:48

30:48

In today’s episode, Dr. Balsley shares her deep-rooted passion for inclusive education, shaped from childhood through her extensive leadership experience in special education at both state and national levels. We’ll delve into the evolution of special education policy, charting the milestones from exclusion to inclusion over the past 50 years, incl…

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Navigating Mental Health and Learning Loss: Literacy Leadership After COVID-19 31:38

2M ago31:38

31:38

In this episode of the Literacy Mindset Podcast, Jeff Pendleton sits down with Larry Brunson Jr., Director of Special Education at Victor Valley Union High School District, to explore the evolving challenges and bold opportunities in literacy education from grades 7 through 12. With over 26 years in education, spanning K–12 and higher ed, Larry sha…

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High Expectations and Collaboration: Elevating Literacy Outcomes with Dr. Burnett 32:40

2M ago32:40

32:40

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Chad Burnett, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning at Eanes Independent School District in Austin, Texas. Drawing from his background in both secondary education and administration across Texas and Massachusetts, Dr. Burnett shares his unique perspective on the evolving landscape of literacy instruction.…

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The Power of Early Literacy Assessment: Insights from District Leader Glen Webb 54:20

2M ago54:20

54:20

In this conversation, Glen shares the eye-opening discoveries he made as a teacher when he realized just how many students reached high school lacking essential reading skills, and how that ignited his mission to address literacy earlier and more effectively. Together, Brian and Glen dive into the lessons learned from shifting a district’s literacy…

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Scarborough’s Reading Rope and Beyond: Dr. Tate’s Guide to Student Success 28:36

2M ago28:36

28:36

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the heart of what it takes to help every student learn to read, especially those who face unique challenges. Our host, Jeff Pendleton, sits down with Dr. Taneka Tate, assistant director of special education at Fort Smith Public Schools in Arkansas. With a background that spans teaching, coaching, and leadership…

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Literacy Reform in Action: A Principal’s Story of Change and Community 32:38

2M ago32:38

32:38

In today’s episode, host Jeff Pendleton welcomes Lana Ingram, principal at Harding Charter Preparatory Elementary in Oklahoma City, for a deeply insightful conversation. With over twenty years in education across both public and charter schools, Lana brings a unique perspective to early literacy and foundational skills. She shares her journey from …

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The Art of Connection: Whole Child Strategies for Literacy with Dr. Precios Armstrong 32:42

2M ago32:42

32:42

In this episode, your host, Jeff Pendleton, sits down with Dr. Precios Armstrong, Director of Special Education at East Lansing Public Schools, to dig deep into what it really takes to help students become successful readers. Dr. Armstrong shares her unique journey from aspiring attorney to passionate educator and offers a wealth of insights on bui…

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Embracing Change: Technology's Role in Literacy Education at Upper Darby School District 34:53

2M ago34:53

34:53

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Dr. Daniel P. McGarry, Superintendent, and Ed Marshaleck, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, from Upper Darby School District in Pennsylvania. Together, they share an unflinching look at the challenges and breakthroughs of leading a district with over 12,000 students, where more than …

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Scaling Literacy Impact: Job-Embedded PD and Intervention in Marietta City Schools 32:29

3M ago32:29

32:29

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton is joined by Dr. Grant Rivera, Superintendent of Marietta City Schools in Georgia, for a no-fluff, all-substance conversation on what it really takes to lead a district-wide literacy transformation. Dr. Rivera shares how his district moved from a fragmented, site-based approach to becoming a …

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Bridging the Gap: Literacy, Leadership, and Technology in DeKalb County Schools 29:33

3M ago29:33

29:33

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Wayne Lyles, Superintendent of DeKalb County Schools in Alabama. With a career spanning 30 years in education and a deep-rooted commitment to his home district, Lyles shares his journey from a high school teacher to leading a rural school district. He offers invaluable insights…

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Adapting Literacy Approaches for Unique Online Learning Communities 27:44

3M ago27:44

27:44

In today’s episode, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Andrea G. Valadez, Director of Special Education and Support Services at Heartland Charter School in California. Andrea shares her unique journey from school psychologist to educational leader in an innovative virtual-home school hybrid environment. Together, they dive into Heartland’s distinct…

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Science of Reading: Grandview C-4’s Path to Literacy Excellence with Dr. Prissy LeMay 26:19

3M ago26:19

26:19

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Dr. Prissy LeMay, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction at Grandview C-4 School District in Missouri. With a deep commitment to literacy and student success, Dr. LeMay shares how her district is implementing the Science of Reading, leveraging data-driven strategies, and fosterin…

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Embracing Science of Reading: How Guymon Schools Foster Literacy Growth 36:12

3M ago36:12

36:12

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with two passionate education leaders from Guymon Public Schools in Oklahoma: Melissa Watson, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction (and incoming Superintendent), and Julie Edenborough, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services. Together, they unpack the district…

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Exploring ESL Challenges and Solutions in a Growing School District 37:31

3M ago37:31

37:31

In this episode of The Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton is joined by two extraordinary education leaders from Springdale Public Schools in Arkansas—Kimberly Glass, Director of Federal Programs, and Dr. Carrie Bredow, Director of ESL Programming and Services. With over three decades of combined experience, Glass and Bredow take us behind the sc…

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Investing in Literacy: Superintendent Mark Marshall on Building a Sustainable Literacy Mindset 23:31

3M ago23:31

23:31

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Dr. Mark Marshall, Superintendent of Los Banos Unified School District in California, to explore the district’s approach to strengthening literacy outcomes. Dr. Marshall shares insights into the unique demographic and economic challenges of Los Banos, including a high percentage of commuting par…

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Literacy for All: Strategies for Diverse Classrooms in Prince William County 35:30

3M ago35:30

35:30

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, Jeff Pendleton is joined by Dr. Lynmara Colón, Director of Student Opportunity and Multilingual Services for Prince William County Schools in Virginia. With more than 90,000 students, over 50 languages spoken, and one of the most diverse student populations in the nation, Dr. Colón brings a bold and deeply perso…

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The Power of Partnership: Kansas City’s Blueprint for Literacy Success 25:57

3M ago25:57

25:57

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton welcomes Dr. Robin E. Henderson, Chief Program Officer at SchoolSmart KC and a veteran educator with a PhD in reading, to unpack one of the most ambitious and community-driven literacy efforts underway in the country. As Kansas City faces the sobering reality of over 250,000 adults without fu…

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The Role of Relationships in Education: A Conversation with Superintendent John Asplund 33:43

3M ago33:43

33:43

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. John Asplund, Superintendent of Galesburg District 205, to explore the essential role of literacy in student success. Dr. Asplund shares his personal journey—from discovering a student in his high school English class who couldn’t read to dedicating his career to closing li…

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Ensuring Equitable Literacy: Tabatha Miller on Overcoming Barriers for Diverse Learners 45:49

4M ago45:49

45:49

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Brian Williams sits down with Tabatha Miller, Executive Director of Student Services at Weld RE-5J School District in Colorado, for an insightful conversation about how to deliver equitable, data-driven literacy outcomes for students with diverse needs. From special education and multilingual learners to gi…

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Exploring Dyslexia: A Journey with Nancy Mather and Judith Bliss 33:44

4M ago33:44

33:44

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with two pioneers in the field of literacy and education: Dr. Nancy Mather, a professor emeritus at the University of Arizona and an expert in reading disabilities, and Judith Bliss, the visionary founder of MindPlay. Together, they discuss the origins of MindPlay, a revolutionary l…

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Monique Boone's Approach to Literacy Education in Cleveland ISD 29:28

4M ago29:28

29:28

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff sits down with Monique D. Boone, Senior Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Cleveland ISD in Texas. With a powerful personal story—once a selective mute who struggled with reading—Monique takes us on a journey from her early challenges with literacy to becoming a passionate advocate for foundatio…

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Building Literacy & Equity in a Diverse Rural-Urban District with Jamie Bente 36:47

4M ago36:47

36:47

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Jamie Bente, Superintendent of Faribault Public Schools in Minnesota. With a background spanning nearly every role in education—from teacher to principal to superintendent—Bente brings a wealth of insight into leadership, literacy, and equity in a uniquely diverse school distri…

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Literacy Leadership: Dr. Cosmas Curry's Insights on Educational Progress 41:52

4M ago41:52

41:52

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. Cosmas Curry, Superintendent of Stroudsburg Area School District, for a deep dive into literacy instruction, district leadership, and the future of K-12 education. Dr. Curry shares insights into his district’s structured approach to literacy, including the adoption of the s…

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Strategies for Diverse and Inclusive Literacy Education in North Shore Schools 36:43

4M ago36:43

36:43

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. Michael Lubelfeld, Superintendent of North Shore School District 112, to explore the district’s transformative journey in literacy instruction. Dr. Lubelfeld shares insights on creating a cohesive, equitable curriculum, the importance of foundational literacy skills, and th…

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Science of Reading: Addressing Multilingual Learners' Literacy Needs 35:46

5M ago35:46

35:46

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Benjamin Zulauf, Director of Literacy at Cicero School District 99 in Illinois, to discuss how strategic leadership, professional development, and a commitment to research-backed literacy practices are transforming education. Ben shares his unconventional journey into education, the challenges o…

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Promoting Literacy with Technology: How Highlands Leverages Digital Tools for Learning 32:58

5M ago32:58

32:58

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Kristopher Macias, Director of Instruction and Professional Learning at Highlands Community Charter and Technical Schools. Kristopher shares a transformative perspective on literacy instruction—one rooted in the needs of adult learners, many of whom are immigrants seeking not just a high school …

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Franklin Regional's Literacy and Innovation Initiatives Explored with Dr. Gennaro R Piraino 38:19

5M ago38:19

38:19

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Dr. Gennaro R. Piraino, Superintendent of Franklin Regional School District in Pennsylvania. With over a decade of leadership at Franklin Regional and a deep-rooted passion for education, Dr. Piraino shares how his district has transformed literacy instruction by centralizing curriculum decision…

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The Role of Technology in Modern Education with Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh, Ed.D. 36:03

5M ago36:03

36:03

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Dr. Jeremy Owoh, Superintendent of Jacksonville North Pulaski School District in Arkansas. With a background as a high school English teacher, principal, and district leader, Dr. Owoh brings a unique perspective to literacy education. He shares how his district is tackling literacy challenges, f…

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From Special Education to Superintendency: Dr. Todd Fraley’s Literacy Leadership Journey 36:19

5M ago36:19

36:19

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we’re joined by Dr. Todd Fraley, Superintendent of Sedalia School District 200 in Missouri. From substitute teaching to leading a district of over 5,000 students, Dr. Fraley shares his journey in education, his philosophy on literacy instruction, and the challenges of balancing district-wide standards with class…

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Inclusive Literacy Strategies for K-8: Insights from Dr. Gabriel Gutierrez 31:27

6M ago31:27

31:27

Dr. Gabriel Gutierrez, Director of Special Education at Hollister School District in California, is dedicated to creating inclusive learning environments where every student—regardless of ability—has access to high-quality literacy instruction. With a background as a school psychologist and years of leadership experience, Dr. Gutierrez understands …

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Transforming Talbot County: Literacy Leadership with Dr. Sharon Pepukayi 29:19

6M ago29:19

29:19

Literacy is more than just reading and writing—it’s the foundation for lifelong learning and success. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Sharon Pepukayi, Superintendent of Talbot County Public Schools, Maryland, whose leadership is transforming the way students engage with literacy. With a warm and dedicated approach, Dr. Pepukayi is committed t…

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Personalizing Education: Dr. Brian Clayton on Literacy and Technology 36:04

6M ago36:04

36:04

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we’re joined by Dr. Brian Clayton, Superintendent of Hartselle City Schools in Alabama. From snowy mornings in Alabama to the cutting-edge integration of technology and literacy, Dr. Clayton shares his journey as an educator, leader, and innovator in education. Starting as a math teacher, Dr. Clayton has evolved…

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Technology-Focused Learning Strategies in Logan City School with Jeffrey Alley 37:13

6M ago37:13

37:13

Welcome to another exciting episode of Literacy Mindset! Today, we're diving into the dynamic intersection of technology and education with our special guest, Jeffrey Alley, the instructional technology coach for Logan City School District in Utah. Jeff’s role was born out of the necessity to pivot to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, b…

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Personalized Learning in K-12: Insights from Riverside High School Leaders 31:47

6M ago31:47

31:47

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with two incredible educators from Riverside Local School District in Ohio—Principal Mike Hall and Intervention Specialist Allie Vitantonio. Together, they share how Riverside High School is transforming literacy education through personalized learning and innovative practices. Mike…

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Transforming K-12 Reading with Science of Reading: Insights from Dr. Brian Latwis and Sue Mayo 39:16

7M ago39:16

39:16

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Literacy Mindset. Today, Jeff Pendleton is joined by two distinguished guests from Riverside Local School District in Ohio—Principal Mike Hall and Intervention Specialist Allie Vitantonio. Together, they dive into the innovative literacy initiatives at Riverside High School, discussing the unique integrati…

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Elevating Literacy in Public Education: A Conversation with Dr. Drew Eichelberger 31:29

7M ago31:29

31:29

Dr. Drew Eichelberger, Superintendent of Piedmont Public Schools in Oklahoma, is deeply committed to improving student literacy outcomes. Under his leadership, Piedmont Public Schools have taken innovative steps to address literacy challenges, implement new teaching strategies, and bridge gaps to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.…