Literacy Mindset

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we’re joined by Dr. Todd Fraley, Superintendent of Sedalia School District 200 in Missouri. From substitute teaching to leading a district of over 5,000 students, Dr. Fraley shares his journey in education, his philosophy on literacy instruction, and the challenges of balancing district-wide standards with classroom autonomy.

Sedalia School District is committed to high-quality literacy instruction and ensuring that intervention strategies extend beyond elementary grades. Dr. Fraley discusses the importance of phonics-based literacy, the struggles of secondary intervention, and how the district leverages professional development to equip teachers with the skills they need to address diverse student learning needs.

With a background in special education, Dr. Fraley emphasizes the importance of meeting each student where they are, using structured phonics instruction, and technology as a tool—not a curriculum—, and fostering collaboration between teachers, administrators, and instructional coaches.

This episode offers practical insights and leadership strategies for improving literacy instruction, personalizing learning, and preparing students for a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Key Moments

00:00 - Dr. Fraley’s Journey: From Substitute Teacher to Superintendent
06:31 - The Impact of Special Ed on Literacy Instruction
09:57 - Personalized Learning and Phonics-Based Instruction
17:06 - The Role of Professional Development in Supporting Teachers
20:09 - Using Technology as a Tool for Literacy, Not a Curriculum
22:47 - Challenges in High School Engagement and Literacy
31:20 - The Future of Education: AI, Literacy, and Student Learning
33:56 - The Importance of Collaboration in Education Leadership

Why You’ll Love This Episode

Dr. Fraley brings a unique and insightful perspective on literacy instruction, blending hands-on experience, research-backed strategies, and a passion for educational leadership. This conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for educators, administrators, and literacy advocates looking to improve student outcomes.

Connect with Dr. Todd Fraley

Website: https://www.sedalia200.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-todd-fraley-31b52193/

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

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This episode is a testament to how thoughtful leadership, community collaboration, and innovative strategies can reshape literacy education. 

Tune in and be inspired by Dr. Fraley’s vision for the future of education!

Dr. Gabriel Gutierrez, Director of Special Education at Hollister School District in California, is dedicated to creating inclusive learning environments where every student—regardless of ability—has access to high-quality literacy instruction. With a background as a school psychologist and years of leadership experience, Dr. Gutierrez understands the importance of data-driven decision-making in supporting students with diverse learning needs.

In this episode, Dr. Gutierrez discusses the role of specialized educators, intervention programs, and the importance of early assessments in identifying learning challenges. He dives into the intersection of literacy and special education, highlighting strategies for personalizing instruction and ensuring students receive the right support at the right time.

Dr. Gutierrez also explores how technology is reshaping special education, from AI-driven reading interventions to adaptive learning tools that enhance accessibility. He shares his vision for a more inclusive future—one where technology, data, and collaboration drive meaningful change in education.

Key Moments

04:45 Special Education and Support Services

08:56 Data-Driven Inclusive Education

11:53 Evaluating Student Progress Interventions

14:45 Guiding Intensive Student Interventions

16:15 Assessing Fidelity in Multilingual Education

22:05 Educational Trends and Development Challenges

24:00 Educational Tools Enhancing Literacy Skills

28:14 Inclusive Education through Technology

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.

Dr. Gutierrez’s passion for special education is evident throughout this conversation, offering a thought-provoking look at how schools can better serve students of all abilities.

Connect with Dr. Gabriel Gutierrez

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

Website: https://www.hesd.org/en

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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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Literacy is more than just reading and writing—it’s the foundation for lifelong learning and success. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Sharon Pepukayi, Superintendent of Talbot County Public Schools, Maryland, whose leadership is transforming the way students engage with literacy. With a warm and dedicated approach, Dr. Pepukayi is committed to ensuring every child, regardless of background, has access to high-quality literacy instruction and the support they need to thrive.

Growing up with a deep passion for education, Dr. Pepukayi has spent decades championing literacy and helping educators refine their instructional strategies. Her hands-on leadership style fosters a culture where teachers feel empowered, students feel seen, and communities come together to uplift learning.

In this conversation, she shares how Talbot County has embraced research-based practices, professional development, and high-quality instructional materials to improve student outcomes. She dives into the district’s systematic approach to literacy instruction, the role of coaching models, and the power of data-driven decision-making.

Key Moments:

[02:00] – Introduction to Talbot County Public Schools and its unique community
[04:15] – The importance of structured literacy and research-based instruction
[06:45] – Implementing a coaching model to support teachers
[09:30] – The critical role of professional development and ongoing feedback
[12:20] – Using data-driven strategies to identify and close literacy gaps
[15:00] – The future of literacy instruction: AI, technology, and evolving best practices
[18:30] – Navigating state mandates and aligning district literacy initiatives
[22:00] – The impact of strong community and parental involvement
[25:45] – Preparing for the future of literacy education

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

If you’re an educator, Dr. Pepukayi’s insights on building teacher capacity and data-informed literacy instruction will inspire you.

If you’re a district leader, you’ll appreciate Talbot County’s strategic approach to literacy interventions, leadership development, and policy alignment.

If you’re passionate about literacy equity, this episode provides a powerful perspective on closing gaps and ensuring every student has access to quality literacy instruction.

Connect with Dr. Sharon Pepukayi

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-pepukayi-superintendent/

Website: https://tcps.k12.md.us/about/superintendent/

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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, we’re joined by Dr. Brian Clayton, Superintendent of Hartselle City Schools in Alabama. From snowy mornings in Alabama to the cutting-edge integration of technology and literacy, Dr. Clayton shares his journey as an educator, leader, and innovator in education. Starting as a math teacher, Dr. Clayton has evolved into a champion of literacy, demonstrating how mathematical and literacy skills intersect to create a holistic approach to student achievement.

Hartselle City Schools, located just southwest of Huntsville—Rocket City—benefits from its proximity to a hub of innovation. With a strong focus on robotics, drones, and rocketry even at the elementary level, the district is leveraging its vibrant community and business partnerships to drive success. In this conversation, Dr. Clayton explores the critical role of personalized learning, the transformative potential of AI in classrooms, and how districts can address challenges like literacy gaps, intervention at the secondary level, and the ever-present distraction of technology in schools.

Whether you're an educator, administrator, or advocate for technology-driven learning, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical strategies for creating equitable and innovative learning environments.

Key Moments

00:00 Hartshill Superintendent's Journey and Vision

06:31 "Linking Early Literacy and Math"

09:57 Reading and Math: Learning Similarities

12:05 Addressing Diverse Reading Levels

17:06 Embracing AI in Future Education

20:09 Personalized Learning Through Technology

22:47 Challenges with High School Engagement

25:50 Personalized Education Development

31:20 "Future Education: AI and Reading Integration"

33:56 "Importance of English in Programming"

Why You’ll Love This Episode

Dr. Clayton’s insights blend practical wisdom with a forward-thinking approach to education. From balancing tradition and innovation to empowering teachers with AI and addressing literacy challenges at every level, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in improving student outcomes. His perspective on the intersections of math, literacy, and technology offers a refreshing and inspiring take on education’s future.

Connect with Brian Clayton

Website: https://www.hartselletigers.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-clayton-9a4286159/

Follow Us:

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 never miss an episode. Leave us a review—it helps us reach more educators and leaders like you.
Share this episode with your network to spark meaningful conversations about the future of education.

This episode is a testament to how intentional leadership, community partnerships, and innovative technology can transform the educational experience. 

Tune in and be inspired by Dr. Clayton’s vision for the future of literacy and learning!

Welcome to another exciting episode of Literacy Mindset! Today, we're diving into the dynamic intersection of technology and education with our special guest, Jeffrey Alley, the instructional technology coach for Logan City School District in Utah. Jeff’s role was born out of the necessity to pivot to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s since grown into something far greater. Now, he’s at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance instruction and create meaningful connections between educators and students.

In this episode, Jeff takes us on a journey through Logan City’s efforts to embrace innovative tools like Vivi, GoGuardian, and AI-driven platforms to empower both teachers and learners. He shares the challenges of managing diverse classrooms, where 36 languages are spoken, and how technology is breaking barriers to deliver personalized, inclusive learning experiences. Jeff also discusses the realities of device management, the importance of intuitive tools, and the transformative role AI is beginning to play in reshaping the future of education.

Whether you're an educator, administrator, or just passionate about educational technology, this conversation is packed with actionable insights, real-world examples, and a hopeful vision of how technology can truly enhance K-12 education. Join us as we reimagine the classroom of tomorrow—and the critical role tech will play in shaping it.

Key Moments

00:00 "Small Town's Diverse Multilingual School"

04:33 "Untethered Teaching with Vivi"

08:31 "Winging It: Expertise and Collaboration"

11:28 Teacher Challenges and New Demands

13:16 "AI Classroom Engagement Tool"

19:12 Embracing AI in Classrooms

21:48 AI Enhances Classroom Learning

26:02 GoGuardian Classroom Management Tool

28:23 Prioritizing Intuitive Educational Tools

32:32 Future of AI: Beyond Virtual Reality

33:43 AI Revolutionizing Education

36:45 Subscribe to Literacy Mindset

Why You’ll Love This Episode

This episode offers a rich blend of practical strategies and forward-thinking insights for navigating the evolving educational landscape. Jeff’s candid reflections on the challenges of rolling out technology, coupled with his optimism about the future, make this a must-listen for anyone invested in K-12 education. Whether you’re looking for ideas to save teachers time, engage students, or integrate AI responsibly, you’ll leave inspired and ready to act.

Connect with Jeffrey Alley

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-alley-b939031b7/
Website: https://www.loganschools.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.

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with two incredible educators from Riverside Local School District in Ohio—Principal Mike Hall and Intervention Specialist Allie Vitantonio. Together, they share how Riverside High School is transforming literacy education through personalized learning and innovative practices.

Mike and Allie take us behind the scenes to discuss their unique approach to integrating 8th graders into the high school environment, serving a diverse student population, and ensuring that reading is both accessible and engaging for every learner. From building meaningful connections with students to tailoring interventions to meet individual needs, their stories showcase how intentional strategies can drive growth and success.

You’ll also hear about the power of collaboration among educators, how technology and AI are reshaping the classroom, and the creative ways Riverside is fostering a love for learning over standardized testing. Their insights are packed with practical takeaways for educators and anyone passionate about the future of education.

So, whether you’re a teacher looking for new ideas or a parent curious about what’s working in schools today, this episode is filled with real-world strategies that make a lasting impact.

Key Moments
04:06 Focus on Reading & Literacy
07:13 Resource Adoption in Math Education
10:33 Easy-to-Understand Learning Resources
14:22 Rethinking Literacy and Expression
18:34 Creative Learning Over Testing
21:11 Student Data and Personal Insight
22:49 Chromebooks and AI Elevate Literacy
28:58 Rethinking Education: Embracing Growth

Why You’ll Love This Episode

• Learn how personalized learning is making a difference in K-12 education.
• Discover creative ways to make literacy engaging for students of all backgrounds.
• Explore the role of technology and AI in supporting student success.

Connect with Mike Hall

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-hall-a63495146/

Website: https://www.painesville-township.k12.oh.us/

Connect with Allie Vitantonio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allie-vitantonio-2a9b78a1/

Website: https://www.painesville-township.k12.oh.us/

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!
Don’t forget to share this episode with educators, parents, and anyone passionate about improving literacy education.

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Literacy Mindset. Today, Jeff Pendleton is joined by two distinguished guests from Riverside Local School District in Ohio—Principal Mike Hall and Intervention Specialist Allie Vitantonio. Together, they dive into the innovative literacy initiatives at Riverside High School, discussing the unique integration of 8th graders into the high school setting, the diverse student backgrounds they serve, and the importance of making reading accessible and engaging for all students.

Mike and Allie share how their inclusive approach and personalized learning strategies are designed to meet students where they are, helping them to grow and succeed. They discuss the pivotal role of building strong relationships with students, the interdisciplinary collaboration among teachers, and how their interventions are tailored to the individual needs of their learners. Additionally, they explore the integration of technology and AI in the classroom, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges these tools present.

Join us as we gain insights into how Riverside employs creativity and flexibility in their curriculum to foster a love for learning and literacy. Whether you're an educator looking to enhance your practices or someone passionate about educational innovation, this episode has something valuable for everyone. Stay tuned to learn more about the successful strategies that are making a real-world impact in education today.

Key Moments

00:00 "Leadership and Data Harvest"

04:48 Specialized Instruction: K-12 Focus

08:58 Insufficient Literacy Training for Teachers

14:13 Bridging Reading Gaps in Classrooms

16:55 Respecting Teachers' Hard Work

22:24 Listening and Feedback for Success

25:20 "Evolving 'Data Dump' Concept"

28:42 Collaborative Data-Driven Teaching Strategies

32:37 "Technology as Educational Resource"

Why You’ll Love This Episode

• If you’re an educator, you’ll learn actionable strategies to improve literacy outcomes.
• If you’re a school leader, you’ll gain insights into data-driven decision-making and innovative school configurations.
• If you’re an advocate for education, you’ll be inspired by their passion for empowering teachers and students.

Dr. Latwis and Sue Mayo don’t just talk about improving literacy—they’ve created a roadmap for success that others can follow.

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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, and advocates passionate about improving literacy education.

Dr. Drew Eichelberger, Superintendent of Piedmont Public Schools in Oklahoma, is deeply committed to improving student literacy outcomes. Under his leadership, Piedmont Public Schools have taken innovative steps to address literacy challenges, implement new teaching strategies, and bridge gaps to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.

In this episode, Dr. Eichelberger discusses the district's shift from an open-source curriculum to a structured, formalized approach with McGraw-Hill textbooks. He shares how Piedmont’s educators assess student needs, identify literacy gaps, and provide targeted interventions, especially for middle and high school students reading below grade level.

Dr. Eichelberger also touches on the role of technology in education, the importance of community support, and how Piedmont is managing the financial constraints that many districts face. He offers a forward-looking perspective on the future of literacy, including the growing influence of AI in education and the ongoing importance of professional development for teachers.

Key Moments:

• [02:30] – The challenges and benefits of Piedmont’s location near Oklahoma City.
• [04:15] – Transitioning to a formalized curriculum with McGraw-Hill textbooks.
• [06:45] – Addressing literacy gaps and using assessments to target student needs.
• [08:30] – Supporting secondary teachers in improving literacy at the middle and high school levels.
• [10:20] – How Piedmont balances technology with traditional literacy resources.
• [12:10] – Incorporating personalized learning to meet diverse student needs.
• [15:00] – Creating a successful intervention model for middle and high school students.
• [17:25] – Building strong community and parent support for educational initiatives.
• [20:40] – Navigating funding limitations and prioritizing literacy programs.
• [24:00] – The role of AI and professional development in the future of literacy education.

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
If you’re an educator, Dr. Eichelberger’s insights on personalized literacy interventions and building a supportive learning environment are invaluable.

If you’re a district leader, you’ll appreciate the strategies Piedmont uses to manage curriculum, technology, and community relationships despite financial constraints.

If you’re passionate about equity in education, this episode provides a hopeful look at how schools can address literacy challenges and help all students thrive.

Dr. Eichelberger’s thoughtful approach to literacy is a must-listen for anyone looking to make a lasting impact on K-12 education.

Connect with Dr. Drew Eichelberger
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-eichelberger-17736719/
Website: https://www.piedmont.k12.ok.us/

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 The Literacy Mindset Podcast and leave us a review!

Share this episode with educators, parents, or advocates who are passionate about advancing literacy in public schools.

Dr. Natasha Crain, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum at Marshall Independent School District (ISD) and the 2024 TABSI Principal of the Year shares her expertise and passion for literacy, leadership, and innovation in public education. With a career spanning roles as a literacy facilitator, principal, and now district leader, Dr. Crain has dedicated her efforts to advancing educational equity and student outcomes.

In this episode, Dr. Crain explores the complexities of literacy instruction, the importance of foundational skills, and the challenges educators face in equipping students with comprehensive reading and writing abilities. She highlights the pivotal role of technology in intervention strategies, supporting emergent bilingual students, and fostering student engagement. Additionally, Dr. Crain delves into the evolving role of libraries, the integration of artificial intelligence, and the future of literacy in a technology-driven educational landscape.

Key Moments
[03:19] – Overview of Marshall ISD: demographics, challenges, and opportunities.
[07:48] – The science of reading: why learning to read is so challenging.
[11:08] – The role of intervention and how data drives targeted support.
[15:16] – Technology as a strategic amplifier for literacy and intervention.
[21:14] – Marshall ISD’s new no-cell-phone policy to improve engagement.
[28:19] – Community partnerships and creative funding for literacy programs.
[31:15] – Addressing literacy challenges: book selection and teacher capacity.
[35:31] – The future of literacy: technology, AI, and redefining libraries.

Why You’ll Love This Episode

Educators: Learn actionable strategies for using technology and data to close literacy gaps.

Administrators: Gain insights into balancing funding, staff development, and community partnerships.

Advocates: Be inspired by innovative approaches to literacy and student engagement.

Dr. Crain’s insights into literacy and leadership provide a roadmap for educators and administrators striving to foster a love of learning and reading in today’s students.

Connect with Dr. Natasha Crain
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-natasha-crain-337575b5/

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 The Literacy Mindset Podcast and leave us a review! Share this episode with educators, policymakers, or advocates passionate about improving literacy and educational equity.

Dr. Bobby Hart, Superintendent of Searcy School District in Arkansas, has dedicated his career to advancing public education and empowering students from all backgrounds. Under his leadership, Searcy Schools have embraced innovative literacy initiatives and collaborative practices that prioritize inclusion and equitable learning opportunities.

In this episode, Dr. Hart discusses the district’s approach to integrating the Science of Reading mandate across subjects, ensuring that every student, including those with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), receives high-quality instruction in general education settings. He shares how his team fosters collaboration, adapts to student needs, and leverages teacher expertise to create transformative educational experiences.

Dr. Hart also highlights the broader education landscape, addressing state funding priorities, advocacy for public schools, and the strategic use of technology to complement, not replace, teacher-student interaction.

Key Moments
[03:30] – Arkansas mandates Science of Reading training for educators.
[08:46] – The importance of collaboration in effective teaching outcomes.
[13:21] – Group time as a critical tier 2 and 3 intervention strategy.
[15:40] – Technology’s role in enhancing, not replacing, teacher interaction.
[20:06] – Special education teachers’ unique strengths in math instruction.
[21:25] – Empowering non-reading teachers to integrate literacy practices.
[26:31] – Ensuring data privacy and adhering to state guidelines.
[28:17] – Funding literacy initiatives and interventions effectively.
[34:23] – Education’s role in leveling opportunities for global competitiveness.
[35:20] – The public vs. private voucher debate in educational funding.

Why You’ll Love This Episode

• If you’re an educator, discover actionable insights to implement inclusive literacy strategies.
• If you’re a policymaker, gain perspective on funding priorities and their impact on public schools.
• If you’re an advocate, be inspired by innovative approaches to equitable education.

Dr. Hart’s passion for literacy and equity shines through in this conversation, offering hope and direction for educators and communities striving to make a difference.

Connect with Dr. Bobby Hart

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-hart-b4801b307/
• Website: https://www.searcyschools.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 The Literacy Mindset Podcast and leave us a review!

Share this episode with educators, parents, or advocates passionate about improving literacy and educational equity.