In this episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Dr. Edie Sohigian, Executive Director of Elementary School Education for Sampson County Schools in North Carolina. Together, they dig into Edie's journey from major urban school districts to leading in a rural setting, exploring the unique challenges and opportunities of each. The conversation unfolds around resource divides, leadership strategies, and the power of relationships in education.

Mindy and Edie get candid about current literacy instruction, especially the district’s big shift towards aligning teaching with the science of reading and the importance of high-quality instructional materials. They discuss how Sampson County is tackling support for struggling readers, building clarity and coherence for teachers, and fostering a culture where vulnerability and learning go hand in hand.

This episode is full of insights and practical takeaways on literacy, supporting educators, and what it takes to enact real change in schools. Stick around to hear Edie's vision for literacy five years from now and some personal reading recommendations to keep you inspired!

Key Moments

03:16 Rural vs. Urban Connections

08:34 Collaboration Brings Transformational Change

12:01 Student Self-Efficacy in Learning

15:04 "The Art of Gathering Insights"

16:46 "North Carolina Reading Initiative"

21:27 Adopting Effective Teaching Materials

25:48 "Job-Embedded Support Strategy"

26:32 Early Literacy Through Close Reading

29:42 Evaluating Tiered Instruction Effectiveness

33:39 Strength-Based Literacy and Rigor

37:28 "Spectacular Leadership Lessons"

Why You’ll Love This Episode

This is a thoughtful look at what it takes to lead literacy with clarity and heart. Dr. Edie Sohigian shares how Sampson County Schools is closing gaps, empowering teachers, and embracing the science of reading to give every child a strong start. From rethinking instructional playbooks to building trust and transparency, her leadership shows that change in education begins with people, not programs. If you care about literacy, equity, and the power of clear vision, this episode is for you.

Connect with Dr. Edie Sohigian
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edie-sohigian
Website: https://www.sampson.k12.nc.us/

Follow Us:

Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom
OnYourMark Website: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/
OnYourMark LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education

About OnYourMark Podcast
The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what’s possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child.

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