In this episode, I sit down with Markesha Tisby, M.Ed., founder and CEO of Tisby Educational Consulting, to explore the critical importance of K-2 instruction and how foundational literacy sets the stage for long-term academic success. A former early childhood teacher and coach, Markesha shares strategies for integrating phonics into all content areas and building joyful, rigorous instruction that supports young readers.

Key Takeaways:

• Strong K-2 instruction lays the groundwork for a student's future academic performance.

• Phonics instruction can and should be woven into all subjects—not just reading blocks.

• School leaders should focus on both instructional practice and student engagement during early literacy walkthroughs.

• Teachers benefit from routines, research-backed resources, and time to deeply understand foundational reading strategies.

• Slowing down instruction in the early grades can lead to faster, more sustainable growth in later years.

Connect with Markesh Tisby:

• LinkedIn: Markesha Tisby, M.Ed (https://www.linkedin.com/in/markesha-tisby-m-ed-7a241a157/)

• LinkedIn: Tisby Educational Consulting (https://www.linkedin.com/company/tisby-educational-consulting)

• Website: www.tisbyconsultant.com – Schedule a consultation today!

• Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts: tctela.org

Recommended Reading:

• 6 Ways to Bring the Science of Reading into the Balanced Literacy Classroom (https://www.routledge.com/Shifting-the-Balance-Grades-K-2-6-Ways-to-Bring-the-Science-of-Reading-into-the-Balanced-Literacy-Classroom/Burkins-Yates/p/book/9781625315106?srsltid=AfmBOoq69NpP-1bsyyRbrTnOzW27Qqdb8OsIPYdK5Ao63gKDB5k1Bbmo)

• Reading Above the Frey: Reliable, Research-Based Routines for Developing Decoding Skills

• Differentiating Phonics Instruction for Maximum Impact: How to Scaffold Whole-Group Instruction So All Students Can Access Grade-Level Content

• Fear Not the Decodable: Why? When? How?(https://blog.heinemann.com/fear-not-the-decodable-why-when-how)

• I Am Ruby Bridges

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