Literacy Mindset

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Brian Williams sits down with Tabatha Miller, Executive Director of Student Services at Weld RE-5J School District in Colorado, for an insightful conversation about how to deliver equitable, data-driven literacy outcomes for students with diverse needs. From special education and multilingual learners to gifted and homeless student populations, Miller shares how her district uses strategic data analysis, inclusive practices, and systems like Impact Teams to close post-COVID learning gaps. 

She discusses how fidelity, flexibility, and family partnerships are essential in personalizing instruction—especially when balancing compliance, limited resources, and philosophical differences among educators. Plus, hear how Weld RE-5J is leveraging tools like I-Ready, SIPPS, and Lexia, and what Miller hopes AI can do to reduce the paperwork burden and unlock more time for student connection.

Key Moments

00:00 Addressing Post-COVID Educational Needs

04:22 Improving GT and Special Education

09:20 Special Education Inclusion Initiative

14:11 Educational Challenges: Time, Money, Philosophy

15:38 "Challenges in Adopting New Teaching Methods"

19:07 "Navigating Educational Goals and Technology"

22:21 Technology Enhances Special Education Strategies

27:11 Advocating for Implementation Capacity

29:51 Optimizing Literacy Strategies

33:08 "Essential Partnership for Student Success"

36:02 "Future of Education: Challenges & Prospects"

39:25 AI's Impact on Student Outcomes

42:34 State Education Standards Variability

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
 

Tabatha Miller speaks with clarity and conviction about one of the most complex challenges in education: serving every student, equitably and effectively. 

You’ll appreciate her honest take on post-pandemic learning loss, the power of inclusion, and how strategic data use and a whole lot of teamwork can help schools meet rising demands. 

Whether you’re a district leader or a classroom educator, this episode offers a rare blend of compassion and tactical wisdom.

Connect with Tabatha Miller

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tabatha-miller-b3417a209

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-williams-624a1485

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation

Company Website: http://MindPlay.com

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In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with two pioneers in the field of literacy and education: Dr. Nancy Mather, a professor emeritus at the University of Arizona and an expert in reading disabilities, and Judith Bliss, the visionary founder of MindPlay. Together, they discuss the origins of MindPlay, a revolutionary literacy intervention program rooted in the science of reading, and its impact on students with dyslexia and other reading challenges.

Judith shares her personal journey with dyslexia and the challenges her son faced, which fueled her mission to create an accessible and effective reading solution. Dr. Mather, with decades of experience in literacy instruction, reveals the critical role of early intervention, the power of differentiated instruction, and how technology can enhance reading instruction beyond the traditional classroom model.

The conversation dives deep into how artificial intelligence and adaptive learning can further personalize literacy education, ensuring every child gets the support they need to succeed. Whether you're an educator, parent, or literacy advocate, this episode will leave you with valuable insights on how reading success is achievable for all students.

Key Moments

04:49 Overcoming Teacher Hesitancy

06:51 From Party to Teaching Career

09:29 Career Shift Inspired by Experts

14:53 "Mind Reading Coach Development Process"

16:26 Effective Golf Practice Strategies

22:35 Individualized Instruction for Reading Challenges

24:14 Enhancing Teacher Preparedness in Reading

30:30 Accelerated Learning Through AI

31:43 AI Enhancing Reading Education

Why You’ll Love This Episode

Inspiring Personal Stories – Hear how Judith Bliss turned her struggles with dyslexia into a powerful literacy movement.

Expert Insights on Dyslexia – Dr. Nancy Mather explains the importance of early intervention and individualized instruction.

The Science of Reading in Action – Learn how MindPlay's Reading Coach aligns with research-backed literacy strategies.

The Role of Technology in Literacy – Discover how AI and adaptive learning can bridge literacy gaps in classrooms.

Empowering Teachers & Students – Find out how literacy programs can support educators and help struggling readers gain confidence.

Connect with Nancy Mather

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-mather-94634413/

Website: https://www.arizona.edu/

Connect with Judith Bliss

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bliss-judith-09043613/

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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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In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff sits down with Monique D. Boone, Senior Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Cleveland ISD in Texas. With a powerful personal story—once a selective mute who struggled with reading—Monique takes us on a journey from her early challenges with literacy to becoming a passionate advocate for foundational reading instruction across all subject areas.

Monique shares her district's strategic approach to equitable Tier 1 instruction, the importance of high-quality instructional materials, and the science behind reading success. From her roots in English classrooms to her current leadership role, she brings a deep understanding of what it takes to support multilingual learners, leverage edtech tools with purpose, and align intervention strategies across grade levels.

Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or someone committed to shaping the future of literacy, this episode offers concrete strategies, heartfelt wisdom, and a clear-eyed look at the role literacy plays in every corner of a student’s life.

Key Moments

03:31 From Dyslexic Student to Literacy Leader

09:03 Improving Instructional Quality in Cleveland ISD

10:40 Challenges in Learning English

15:18 Everyday Literacy in Action

18:17 Integrating Literacy Across Curriculum

21:12 Maximizing Educational Tool Effectiveness

22:38 Critical EdTech Utilization Analysis

27:20 Embracing AI in Education

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

• Monique’s story is real, relatable, and powerful—a reminder that our personal challenges can become our biggest motivators.
• You’ll gain fresh insights into how rural, rapidly growing districts like Cleveland ISD are tackling literacy with intentionality and innovation.
• It’s packed with practical takeaways on building aligned instructional ecosystems, choosing edtech wisely, and supporting students with phonological gaps—especially at the secondary level.
• You’ll rethink literacy as a universal skill, not just the domain of ELA teachers, but something that should thrive in math, science, PE, CTE—and even band.
• You’ll hear a vision of the future, where AI and education can work together to prepare students not just for tests, but for life.

Connect with Monique D. Boone

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monique-d-boone-m-ed-201540241/

Website: https://www.clevelandisd.org/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation

Company Website: http://MindPlay.com

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In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Jamie Bente, Superintendent of Faribault Public Schools in Minnesota. With a background spanning nearly every role in education—from teacher to principal to superintendent—Bente brings a wealth of insight into leadership, literacy, and equity in a uniquely diverse school district.

Faribault Public Schools serves a student population unlike many others: a rural setting with urban-level diversity. Bente shares how the district is tackling literacy challenges, including the implementation of science-based reading instruction, the importance of early intervention, and supporting multilingual learners. He also discusses innovative approaches to professional development, equity-focused community initiatives, and the evolving role of technology in education.

Whether you're an educator, administrator, or advocate for literacy and student success, this episode offers valuable perspectives on how to drive meaningful change in K-12 education.

Keypoint:

• 01:38 Jamie Bente’s journey from teacher to superintendent
• 03:20 Unique diversity in Faribault Public Schools
• 05:47 Literacy as a core district goal and challenges in early reading proficiency
• 07:28 Minnesota’s Science of Reading initiative and phonics-based instruction
• 10:25 Personalized literacy interventions and WIN (What I Need) time
• 13:34 Supporting older students with foundational reading gaps
• 15:41 Professional development tailored to teacher needs
• 19:20 Community schools: Addressing non-academic barriers to literacy
• 22:54 Equity-driven student support systems and grant-funded programs
• 27:24 One-to-one iPad access and digital learning strategies
• 29:53 Managing personal device distractions and digital responsibility
• 33:33 The future of education: Engaging students in a technology-driven world

Why You’ll Love This Episode

If you’re an educator, you’ll gain insights into data-driven instruction and personalized learning strategies.
If you’re a parent, you’ll understand the assessment process and how schools support students with learning challenges.
If you’re an advocate, you’ll be inspired by the push for inclusive education and technology’s role in bridging learning gaps.

Connect with Jamie Bente:

• Website: https://www.faribault.k12.mn.us/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bente-59891493/

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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Share this episode with educators, administrators, and advocates who are passionate about improving literacy and student success.

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. Cosmas Curry, Superintendent of Stroudsburg Area School District, for a deep dive into literacy instruction, district leadership, and the future of K-12 education. Dr. Curry shares insights into his district’s structured approach to literacy, including the adoption of the science of reading, a robust MTSS framework, and the professional development initiatives that are driving student success.

From the challenges of transient student populations to the importance of early literacy interventions, this conversation highlights the strategies that have led to significant gains in student achievement. Dr. Curry also discusses the role of technology in education, the impact of school structure on student outcomes, and his vision for the future of education policy.

If you're passionate about improving literacy outcomes, fostering a data-driven instructional culture, and rethinking the way schools support students at every stage of their academic journey, this episode is a must-listen!

Key Moments

04:39 Grades Configuration Impact on Students

09:09 Teachers' Commitment to Professional Development

12:06 New Steel Standards Impact Education

14:53 "Overcoming COVID Education Gaps"

18:54 Intimate Professional Development Sessions

20:20 MTSS Team Boosts Student Performance

26:45 Improving Student Reading Proficiency

30:57 Empowering Learning with Technology

32:30 Transition to Online Curriculum

37:27 Future Education: Listening and Adapting

38:59 "Impact of Government in Education"

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

• Learn how Stroudsburg Area School District is improving literacy through the science of reading.
• Discover how MTSS and professional development are driving student success.
• Hear Dr. Curry’s insights on school structure, technology, and education policy.

Connect with Dr. Cosmas Curry

X: https://x.com/Cosmas_Curry?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Website: https://www.sburg.org/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/ 

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation 

Company Website: https://mindplay.com/ 

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Literacy Mindset and leave us a review! 

Share this episode with educators, parents, or advocates passionate about improving literacy and special education.

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. Michael Lubelfeld, Superintendent of North Shore School District 112, to explore the district’s transformative journey in literacy instruction. Dr. Lubelfeld shares insights on creating a cohesive, equitable curriculum, the importance of foundational literacy skills, and the role of instructional leadership in driving meaningful change. He also discusses the impact of intervention strategies, technology integration, and the future of education with AI. 

Whether you're an educator, administrator, or passionate about literacy, this episode delivers practical strategies for improving student outcomes and shaping the future of K-12 education.

Key Moments

05:37 School District's Transformative Journey

06:25 "Predicting Student Success Variability"

10:09 Ethical AI in Education

13:53 Tier Two: Targeted Reading Interventions

16:59 Supporting Teachers with Skills Gaps

19:18 Foundational Skills Focus in Education

23:43 Device Management and EdTech Strategy

28:29 Teacher-Led Training Preference

30:41 Embracing Generative AI in Education

34:27 Transforming Education with Technology

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

Practical Literacy Strategies – Learn how structured literacy is transforming student outcomes.
Equity in Education – Discover how standardizing curriculum ensures all students thrive.
AI & The Future of Learning – Hear how AI is shaping personalized instruction.
Inspiring Leadership – Dr. Lubelfeld’s vision will leave you motivated to drive change in education.

Connect with Michael Lubelfeld

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellubelfeld/

Website: https://www.nssd112.org/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/ 

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation 

Company Website: https://mindplay.com/ 

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Literacy Mindset and leave us a review! 

Share this episode with educators, parents, or advocates passionate about improving literacy and special education.

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Benjamin Zulauf, Director of Literacy at Cicero School District 99 in Illinois, to discuss how strategic leadership, professional development, and a commitment to research-backed literacy practices are transforming education.

Ben shares his unconventional journey into education, the challenges of uniting different pedagogical philosophies, and the steps Cicero has taken to improve literacy outcomes—nearly tripling student proficiency in just a few years. He also dives into the importance of professional learning, multilingual literacy instruction, and how his district has embraced structured literacy to drive measurable success.

If you're an educator, administrator, or literacy advocate looking for real-world insights on driving systemic change, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways on curriculum adoption, intervention strategies, and the future of literacy instruction.

Key Moments

05:30 Internal Debates on Reading Strategy

08:07 "Initiating District-Wide Training Program"

12:02 Science of Reading Debate Misunderstood

16:00 Ensuring Effective Student Readiness

19:36 District Develops Internal Literacy Program

22:52 Language vs. Reading Intervention Debate

25:47 Accelerating Foundational Learning Skills

30:23 Implementing Integrity in Education

33:10 Prioritize Teacher Prep Over EdTech

Why You’ll Love This Episode

• Practical Literacy Leadership – Learn how Ben Zulauf and his team transformed a fragmented literacy approach into a structured, research-driven program.
• Actionable Strategies – Gain insights into professional development, structured literacy, and intervention strategies that have made a measurable impact.
• Multilingual Literacy Insights – Discover how Cicero School District is supporting English learners while improving Spanish literacy at an accelerated pace.
• A Fresh Perspective on EdTech – Ben shares his candid thoughts on the role (and limitations) of technology in literacy instruction.
• Real Success Stories – From professional learning communities to district-wide literacy symposiums, hear how Cicero is fostering sustainable change.

Connect with Benjamin Zulauf

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-zulauf-968627160/

Website: https://www.cicd99.edu/

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

Enjoyed this episode?
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Share this episode with educators, district leaders, and literacy advocates who are passionate about student success.

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Kristopher Macias, Director of Instruction and Professional Learning at Highlands Community Charter and Technical Schools. Kristopher shares a transformative perspective on literacy instruction—one rooted in the needs of adult learners, many of whom are immigrants seeking not just a high school diploma, but a new beginning.

From classroom culture to biliteracy and the nuanced difference between translation and interpretation, Kristopher offers a front-row look at how adult education challenges conventional thinking. He discusses the emotional and pedagogical balancing act required to teach foundational literacy skills to students in their 30s, 40s, and beyond—while respecting their lived experiences and cultural identities.

Whether you’re an educator, instructional leader, or edtech innovator, this conversation will shift how you think about literacy, learning environments, and equity in education.

Key Moments

00:00 Biliteracy and Workforce Readiness Education

06:21 Teaching Multilingual ELD Students

07:39 Bridging Language Gaps in Education

11:39 Highlands District Technology Integration

14:48 Respectful Adult Language Education

17:06 Strategic Student Placement Approach

21:48 Intentional Teaching for Student Confidence

23:28 Hiring Teachers for Adult Education

27:57 Language Learning: Bridging Contextual Gaps

30:50 Promoting Literacy and Practice

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

• You’ll discover what it takes to build a classroom culture where adult learners feel safe enough to make mistakes—and confident enough to grow.

• Kristopher unpacks what true biliteracy support looks like, and why it’s so much more than translation.

• You’ll gain insight into the delicate art of teaching foundational phonics and fluency to learners well beyond the K-12 age range.

• The discussion highlights real-world applications of technology (including AI) in bridging literacy gaps—and where current tools still fall short.

Connect with Kristopher Macias

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristopher-macias-563046180/

Website: https://hccts.org/

Follow & Subscribe

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

Enjoyed this episode?
Subscribe to The Literacy Mindset Podcast and leave us a review!
Share this episode with educators, district leaders, and literacy advocates who are passionate about student success.

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Dr. Gennaro R. Piraino, Superintendent of Franklin Regional School District in Pennsylvania. With over a decade of leadership at Franklin Regional and a deep-rooted passion for education, Dr. Piraino shares how his district has transformed literacy instruction by centralizing curriculum decisions, implementing a robust MTSS framework, and fostering innovation in the classroom.

We explore the power of data-driven instruction, the importance of early literacy interventions, and how Franklin Regional is preparing students for a future shaped by technology and AI. Dr. Piraino also provides insight into how his background in special education has influenced his approach to differentiated instruction, ensuring that every student has the resources and support to thrive.

From reimagining literacy instruction to launching career academies that blend cutting-edge technology with real-world applications, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies and bold ideas for the future of K-12 education.

Key Moments

05:26 Innovative Primary School Renovation

08:43 Focus on Literacy for Success

11:57 Collaborative Educational Excellence Model

13:59 "Comprehensive Literacy Support Initiative"

17:20 Specialized Teacher Development Strategies

19:57 Digital Ambassadors: Teacher-Led Tech Integration

25:26 Reviving Innovation in Education

29:11 Advanced Tech Academy Plans

30:25 Integrating Tech in Education

35:52 Rethinking Educational Accountability Practices

37:03 Educational Innovation and Progress

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

Practical Strategies: Learn how Franklin Regional streamlined literacy instruction across multiple schools for greater consistency and equity.

Innovative MTSS Implementation: Discover how the district supports students at every level through a multi-tiered system of support.

Future-Ready Learning: Hear about the district’s groundbreaking career academies in advanced technology, medical studies, and entrepreneurship.

AI in Education: Gain insight into the evolving role of artificial intelligence in K-12 learning and why Dr. Piraino believes classrooms should embrace it.

Leadership Perspective: Get a behind-the-scenes look at how a superintendent balances curriculum decisions, teacher development, and student success.

Connect with Dr. Gennaro R. Piraino

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gennaro-piraino-728661a1/

Website: https://www.frsdk12.org/

Follow & Subscribe

Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation

Company Website: https://mindplay.com/

Enjoyed this episode?
Subscribe to The Literacy Mindset Podcast and leave us a review!
Share this episode with educators, district leaders, and literacy advocates who are passionate about student success.

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Dr. Jeremy Owoh, Superintendent of Jacksonville North Pulaski School District in Arkansas. With a background as a high school English teacher, principal, and district leader, Dr. Owoh brings a unique perspective to literacy education. He shares how his district is tackling literacy challenges, from embedding elementary reading specialists in high schools to bridging the gap between foundational reading skills and secondary education.

We also dive into the power of technology in education, the role of generative AI, and how Jacksonville North Pulaski School District is preparing students for a future where digital literacy and traditional skills go hand in hand. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or passionate about student success, this conversation is packed with insights on literacy instruction, educational leadership, and the future of learning.

Key Moments

05:35 "Benefiting from English Teaching Background"

08:14 High School Literacy Intervention Strategy

10:19 Master's Insights Enhance Educational Leadership

15:00 The Science of Reading's Importance

19:40 Integrating Technology in Education

22:54 Balancing Technology in Education

25:10 Balancing Traditional and Digital Learning

30:56 Future Technology Trends in Schools

33:06 Generative AI Enhancing Education

35:12 Generative AI's Exciting Potential

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
Inspiring Leadership Journey: Dr. Owoh’s path from English teacher to superintendent offers valuable insights into effective educational leadership.
Actionable Literacy Strategies: Learn how Jacksonville North Pulaski is innovating with reading specialists at the secondary level to close learning gaps.
Technology & AI in Education: Discover how schools can embrace AI while balancing traditional learning methods to enhance student outcomes.
Holistic Approach to Learning: Understand the connection between literacy, math, and science performance, and how educators can foster literacy across all subjects.

Connect with Dr. Jeremy Owoh

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-s-owoh-ed-d-9428b710/

Website: https://www.jnpsd.org/

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/ 

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Literacy Mindset and leave us a review! 

Share this episode with educators, parents, or advocates passionate about improving literacy and special education.