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When the Data Leads the Way: How SLPs Shape Instructional Practices & Legislation
In this dynamic and heartfelt episode of LeadSpeak, we sit down with Rachel Powell—Director of Curriculum & Instruction, veteran SLP, data enthusiast, and award-winning leader—to explore how school-based speech-language pathologists can expand their reach far beyond the therapy room.
Rachel shares her evolution from clinician to systems-level leader, all rooted in a deep love for literacy, a passion for diagnostic clarity, and a commitment to student success. You’ll hear how she uses her SLP skill set to influence reading outcomes, coach teachers, rewrite state policy, and build collaborative, data-informed teams that change lives.
- From Data Collector to Data Coach
Learn how Rachel transitioned from tracking student outcomes to coaching educators on using data to improve Tier 1 and Tier 2 instruction, highlighting SLPs’ value beyond IEPs.
-SLPs Belong in Literacy Conversations
Rachel pushes beyond the narrow dyslexia lens to advocate for SLP involvement in broader literacy initiatives, curriculum development, and language standards alignment.
-Professional Development Starts With Inquiry
She shares how she crafts adult learning experiences grounded in curiosity, background knowledge, and mutual respect, empowering educators instead of prescribing solutions.
-The Power of Serendipity + Strategy
From earning her PhD to leading multi-disciplinary teams, Rachel shows how staying open to opportunities and aligning them with your passions leads to lasting systems change.
-Silos Don’t Serve Students
Rachel makes a compelling case for breaking down professional silos—between general education and special education, between disciplines, and between policy and practice.
-Change Takes Time—and Partners
System-level advocacy (especially at the state or policy level) requires patience, persistence, and partnerships. Rachel walks through how she builds credibility and momentum.
Whether you’re a veteran SLP, a team lead, or someone wondering how to elevate your leadership impact, Rachel’s story offers a blueprint for action: lean into mentorship, stay curious, connect your data to your purpose—and don’t wait for permission to make meaningful change.
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By Nathalie Lebrun & Judy RichIn this dynamic and heartfelt episode of LeadSpeak, we sit down with Rachel Powell—Director of Curriculum & Instruction, veteran SLP, data enthusiast, and award-winning leader—to explore how school-based speech-language pathologists can expand their reach far beyond the therapy room.
Rachel shares her evolution from clinician to systems-level leader, all rooted in a deep love for literacy, a passion for diagnostic clarity, and a commitment to student success. You’ll hear how she uses her SLP skill set to influence reading outcomes, coach teachers, rewrite state policy, and build collaborative, data-informed teams that change lives.
- From Data Collector to Data Coach
Learn how Rachel transitioned from tracking student outcomes to coaching educators on using data to improve Tier 1 and Tier 2 instruction, highlighting SLPs’ value beyond IEPs.
-SLPs Belong in Literacy Conversations
Rachel pushes beyond the narrow dyslexia lens to advocate for SLP involvement in broader literacy initiatives, curriculum development, and language standards alignment.
-Professional Development Starts With Inquiry
She shares how she crafts adult learning experiences grounded in curiosity, background knowledge, and mutual respect, empowering educators instead of prescribing solutions.
-The Power of Serendipity + Strategy
From earning her PhD to leading multi-disciplinary teams, Rachel shows how staying open to opportunities and aligning them with your passions leads to lasting systems change.
-Silos Don’t Serve Students
Rachel makes a compelling case for breaking down professional silos—between general education and special education, between disciplines, and between policy and practice.
-Change Takes Time—and Partners
System-level advocacy (especially at the state or policy level) requires patience, persistence, and partnerships. Rachel walks through how she builds credibility and momentum.
Whether you’re a veteran SLP, a team lead, or someone wondering how to elevate your leadership impact, Rachel’s story offers a blueprint for action: lean into mentorship, stay curious, connect your data to your purpose—and don’t wait for permission to make meaningful change.