Dr. Stephanie Al Otaiba joins READ to share her expertise in literacy interventions, the impact of social-emotional development on learning, and the future of reading education research. A leading researcher and professor at Southern Methodist University, Dr. Al Otaiba has led and collaborated on key studies on literacy and learning disabilities. In this episode, she discusses

• a framework for applying interventions in schools.
• the role of social-emotional learning and growth mindset in reading development.
• an integrated approach to dialogic reading for building language, emotional, and reading skills.
• how teachers ensure fidelity in applying instructional practices, including managing classroom behaviors and discourse.
• current gaps in reading science and her hopes for its future.

This episode offers practical strategies for educators and emphasizes the importance of structured literacy, data-driven decision-making, and supporting teachers to improve literacy outcomes.

Learn more about "The Science of Intensive Reading Interventions" at The Windward Institute's Robert J. Schwartz Memorial Lecture, featuring Dr. Jeanne Wanzek.

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Until next time, READers!