Guest: Kristin McCord, Instructional Specialist - Reading/ELA PreK-6

In this episode, Kristin shares the essential components of early reading instruction and explore what EVERY (PreK-12) educator needs to know to support young readers. From phonemic awareness and phonics to fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the foundational skills that set students up for lifelong literacy.

Learn how to make phonics instruction more engaging, identify struggling readers early, and deliver targeted support with confidence. Whether you're new to teaching reading or looking to sharpen your approach, this episode will empower you to implement structured literacy practices, differentiate for diverse learners, and build a classroom culture where reading is both accessible and joyful.

Resources from this episode:

• Scarborough's Reading Rope
• Structured Literacy
• Finger Stretching Video 
• Elkonin Boxes
• Fundations "Tapping Video"
• Open-Source Decodable Stories (for teachers oustide of GPS*)
• Open-Source Phonics (for teachers oustide of GPS*)
• Kristin LIVE working with Miles

*GPS teachers will use district approved curriculum and resources.