In this episode of The Literacy Mindset Podcast, Jeff Pendleton is joined by a panel of literacy leaders from American Paradigm Schools in Philadelphia: Susan Senek, Brittany Reid Harden, and Kyle Black. Together, they bring perspectives from across the K–12 spectrum, sharing how their network of charter schools is approaching literacy instruction with both innovation and consistency. From building consensus around Tier 1 curriculum choices to weaving the science of reading into upper grades, the trio discusses the challenges and opportunities of aligning literacy practices across diverse school communities.

The conversation explores pressing issues like the balance between fluency and comprehension, the impact of short-form digital communication on student reading habits, and the ongoing importance of physical libraries and book choice in cultivating lifelong readers. The panel also dives into how they’re navigating AI in classrooms, setting policies that prepare students to use new tools responsibly while ensuring authentic literacy growth. Looking ahead, they share their hopes for culturally responsive teaching, new texts entering the curriculum, and the role of learning science in closing achievement gaps.

Key Moments

04:01 Literacy Structure in Schools

07:02 "Reading Development Journey Overview"

12:48 Ninth Grade Academic Foundations

15:03 "Essential School Libraries Boost Literacy"

19:39 AI in Education: Tools and Challenges

21:36 Monitoring Student Tech Use

25:37 Science of Learning Advances Education

Why You’ll Love This Episode

If you’ve ever wondered how literacy leadership looks when it spans every grade level, this episode delivers. Susan, Brittany, and Kyle offer candid, practical insights on everything from managing curriculum adoption to coaching students through the distractions of technology. Their blend of expertise—rooted in classrooms, libraries, and system-wide leadership—makes this a dynamic conversation packed with takeaways for teachers, administrators, and literacy advocates alike. You’ll leave with fresh ideas on building strong literacy systems, equipping students for the future, and ensuring every learner sees themselves in the texts they read.

Connect with Guests

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susansenek
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-paradigm-schools

Follow Us On:

• Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation
• Company Website: https://mindplay.com/
  
  

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