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The Role of Relationships in Education: A Conversation with Superintendent John Asplund
In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. John Asplund, Superintendent of Galesburg District 205, to explore the essential role of literacy in student success. Dr. Asplund shares his personal journey—from discovering a student in his high school English class who couldn’t read to dedicating his career to closing literacy gaps.
Together, they discuss the Science of Reading, the importance of phonemic awareness, and how early intervention (PreK–3) can shape a child’s academic future. Dr. Asplund also unpacks how his district is implementing effective literacy strategies, leveraging data-driven instruction, and creating systems to support struggling readers through tiered interventions.
Beyond literacy, the conversation dives into the evolving role of technology in education, the impact of a no-cell-phone policy, and why personal connections between students and teachers remain at the heart of learning. If you’re passionate about literacy and educational leadership, this episode is a must-listen!
Key Moments
03:14 Educator's Journey from Teacher to Superintendent
09:28 "Phonics vs. Whole Language Debate"
11:45 Encouraging Student Engagement in Literature
16:08 Ensuring Effective Tier Three Interventions
18:56 Personalized Classroom Coaching Success
20:20 Coach Oversees District-Wide Educational Support
23:58 Preserving Traditional Snow Days
27:51 Tech in Education: Benefits & Concerns
31:32 Essential Role of Teachers and Mentors
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
- Discover the moment that shaped Dr. Asplund’s commitment to literacy advocacy.
- Learn how the Science of Reading is transforming early education.
- Understand why foundational literacy skills by third grade are critical for lifelong success.
- Hear how Galesburg District 205 uses data and coaching to enhance reading instruction.
- Explore the balance between technology and human connection in the classroom.
- Get insight into a bold no-cell-phone policy and its surprising impact on student engagement.
Connect with Dr. John Asplund
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-asplund-a4a6211/
Website: https://www.galesburg205.org/
Follow & Subscribe
Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation
Company Website: http://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.
View all episodes
By Jeff Pendleton
In this episode of Literacy Mindset, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Dr. John Asplund, Superintendent of Galesburg District 205, to explore the essential role of literacy in student success. Dr. Asplund shares his personal journey—from discovering a student in his high school English class who couldn’t read to dedicating his career to closing literacy gaps.
Together, they discuss the Science of Reading, the importance of phonemic awareness, and how early intervention (PreK–3) can shape a child’s academic future. Dr. Asplund also unpacks how his district is implementing effective literacy strategies, leveraging data-driven instruction, and creating systems to support struggling readers through tiered interventions.
Beyond literacy, the conversation dives into the evolving role of technology in education, the impact of a no-cell-phone policy, and why personal connections between students and teachers remain at the heart of learning. If you’re passionate about literacy and educational leadership, this episode is a must-listen!
Key Moments
03:14 Educator's Journey from Teacher to Superintendent
09:28 "Phonics vs. Whole Language Debate"
11:45 Encouraging Student Engagement in Literature
16:08 Ensuring Effective Tier Three Interventions
18:56 Personalized Classroom Coaching Success
20:20 Coach Oversees District-Wide Educational Support
23:58 Preserving Traditional Snow Days
27:51 Tech in Education: Benefits & Concerns
31:32 Essential Role of Teachers and Mentors
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
- Discover the moment that shaped Dr. Asplund’s commitment to literacy advocacy.
- Learn how the Science of Reading is transforming early education.
- Understand why foundational literacy skills by third grade are critical for lifelong success.
- Hear how Galesburg District 205 uses data and coaching to enhance reading instruction.
- Explore the balance between technology and human connection in the classroom.
- Get insight into a bold no-cell-phone policy and its surprising impact on student engagement.
Connect with Dr. John Asplund
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-asplund-a4a6211/
Website: https://www.galesburg205.org/
Follow & Subscribe
Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation
Company Website: http://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.