The webinar recording can be accessed here.

Every teacher has seen it—a student who can’t focus, can’t follow, or can’t find calm enough to learn—no matter how strong the instruction. This edWeb podcast introduces the concept of learning readiness through regulation—how emotional, cognitive, and relational factors shape students’ capacity to access and retain foundational literacy skills.

We explore how regulation is the bridge between ability and achievement, and how teachers can weave readiness practices into daily instruction without adding more to their plates. By connecting the Science of Reading with the Science of Learning, educators discover practical ways to create calm, connected, and learning-ready classrooms where every child can thrive.

Join Kai-leé Berke, educator and early learning leader, Dr. Diane Davison King-Shaw, Clinical Director of the Lourie Center School and expert in trauma-informed education, and Heather Minter, Resilient Learning and Well-Being Consultant, who translate these ideas into practical classroom strategies. Moderated by Marjorie Bottari, this conversation helps educators understand how readiness and regulation unlock every student’s potential—transforming not just how we teach, but how students experience learning.

Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.

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In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with a nationally recognized educator and literacy expert to explore the true foundations of reading success. They discuss the critical role of oral language, the science behind reading development, and how educators can take actionable steps to support every child’s learning journey. From early intervention to innovative leadership practices, this conversation highlights the impact of curiosity, collaboration, and knowledge in shaping literacy outcomes. 

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
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In this episode of Literacy Lunch Break, we are joined by Alvin Irby, educator, social entrepreneur, and founder of Barbershop Books, for a powerful conversation on advancing literacy equity. Drawing from his experience as a teacher and national thought leader, Alvin shares how his journey shaped a deep commitment to making reading accessible and joyful for all children. We explore the systemic barriers that impact underserved communities, the importance of cultural relevance in the classroom, and practical strategies educators can use to create more inclusive, affirming literacy experiences. Tune in for an inspiring and thought-provoking dialogue that challenges the status quo and uplifts the voices of young readers everywhere.

Learn more about Heggerty!

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In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari talks with Dr. Katie Pace Miles, known for her research on high-frequency words and orthographic mapping, about her powerful work with the CUNY Reading Corps. Katie shares how the program, born during COVID, now provides high-impact tutoring to thousands of New York City students while transforming preservice teacher training. Together, they discuss why one-on-one structured literacy support is essential, how tutoring can scale through innovative university partnerships, and the vital role of human connection in helping striving readers thrive. Katie also highlights how educators and universities can access free, research-based resources through the Reading Institute.

Learn more about Heggerty!

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In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with Dr. Lori Hernandez, Director of Teaching and Learning in Newport Mesa School District. Dr. Hernandez shares how her team has created a district-wide culture of literacy that supports every learner, from newcomers and English learners to students in Title I and non-Title I schools. She discusses the district’s strategic rollout of phonemic awareness, phonics, and high-quality instruction, the systems of support built for teachers and administrators, and the powerful mindset shift that all kids can—and will—learn to read. This conversation is packed with insights for leaders and educators committed to equity and excellence in literacy instruction.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
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In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with Dr. Molly Ness—literacy advocate, researcher, and author—to unpack what it really takes to move from knowing the science of reading to putting it into practice. Dr. Ness shares her journey from classroom teacher to national thought leader and offers insight into why literacy reform requires whole-system change, not just new materials. They dive into the importance of language comprehension, intentional read alouds, and building student identity and joy in reading. Listeners will walk away with practical ideas for supporting literacy that go beyond test scores and into everyday classroom life. 

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
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In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with Dr. Almitra Berry, a nationally recognized educator and author who has spent over 30 years advocating for all learners. Dr. Berry shares her personal journey and the experiences that fueled her passion for transforming educational outcomes. Together, they discuss , the importance of self-reflection for educators, and practical steps toward improving learning outcomes for all learners. Listeners will leave inspired to honor the whole child while embracing the science—and art—of teaching.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
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 In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with Kai-leé Berke, CEO of Heggerty and a nationally recognized early childhood education expert. With decades of experience as a teacher, administrator, and author of widely used classroom solutions, Kai-leé shares her insights on addressing the complex challenges of reading development. Together, they explore why solving reading problems requires examining multiple lenses—moving beyond surface-level assumptions like “parents don’t read to their kids”—and the importance of asking, What can we do next? They discuss examples of districts making measurable gains, such as Louisiana, and the role programs like Heggerty play in supporting growth. Listeners will gain perspective on using assessment data to guide instruction, understanding factors outside educators’ control, and taking actionable steps to support every child’s reading success. 

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
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In this episode, Shelia Cooper, an ELA coordinator, discusses her work supporting teachers and students in achieving literacy success. Shelia highlights the importance of using research-based strategies to foster growth, resilience, and inclusivity in literacy instruction. Learn how Shelia is empowering educators to implement simple, effective approaches in their classrooms, and how she champions a positive learning environment that helps students reach their full potential.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
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In this episode, Lisa Elaine Peters, a kindergarten teacher, shares her insights into building literacy skills in young learners. Lisa discusses how she integrates engaging and research-backed methods into her daily teaching, fostering both a love of learning and a growth mindset in her students. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Lisa’s approach to literacy is helping her students thrive, while providing inspiration to educators everywhere.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
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