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The TeacherCast Podcast

Jeffrey Bradbury

The TeacherCast Educational Network

  • 27 minutes 43 seconds
    The Science of Implementation – Part 2
    In this episode, Jeffrey Bradbury and Laura Stewart discuss the science of reading with Dr. Rob Friel and Dr. Brian Cromer from South Western School District. They explore the importance of leadership in implementing literacy changes, the challenges faced during the transformation, and the significance of building a collaborative culture among educators.   If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

    In This Episode …

    • What is the current landscape of the science of reading?
    • How did the science of reading become a national movement?

    Conversation Takeaways

    • The science of reading is a body of research that informs educational practices.
    • Leadership is crucial in implementing effective literacy programs.
    • Transformational change in literacy requires a methodical approach.
    • Building a collaborative culture enhances educational outcomes.
    • Curriculum development should be an ongoing process.
    • Professional learning and coaching are essential for teacher development.
    • Engaging various stakeholders fosters buy-in and commitment.
    • Intentional collaboration is key to successful implementation.
    • Understanding student needs is vital for effective literacy instruction.
    • The journey of educational transformation takes time and patience. Coaching is essential for effective instructional design.
    • Selecting the right literacy resources is crucial for student success.
    • Teacher preparedness varies, and resources can help bridge gaps.
    • Leaders must be actively involved in classrooms to support teachers.
    • Communication and feedback loops are vital for successful implementation.
    • Patience and perseverance are key attributes for educational leaders.
    • It's important to stay focused on the vision despite distractions.
    • Building a supportive team enhances the implementation process.
    • Continuous improvement is necessary for better learning outcomes.
    • Hope and collaboration drive positive change in education.

    Bold Moves from Theory & Practice


     About the 95 Percent Group

    95 Percent Group is an education company whose mission is to build on science to empower teachers—supplying the knowledge, resources, and support they need—to develop strong readers. Using an approach that is based in structured literacy, the company’s One95 Literacy Ecosystem™ integrates professional learning and evidence-based literacy products into one cohesive system that supports consistent instructional routines across tiers and is proven and trusted to help students close skill gaps and read fluently. 95 Percent Group is also committed to advancing research, best practices, and thought leadership on the science of reading more broadly. For additional information on 95 Percent Group, visit: https://www.95percentgroup.com.

    Links of Interest


    About our Guests

    Laura Stewart

    Laura Stewart is the Chief Academic Officer at 95 Percent Group. She is a nationally recognized Science of Reading and Structured Literacy advocate who has dedicated her career to improving literacy achievement at leading education companies. Stewart has more than 25 years of academic leadership experience. Most recently, she served as the Chief Innovation Officer for The Reading League and Chief Academic Officer for professional development with the Highlights Education Group. Other key education roles include vice president of professional development for the Rowland Reading Foundation and Zaner-Bloser, school district administrator and adjunct professor. She is the author of several training guides and training workshops, as well as 12 children’s books, and the co-author of The Everything Guide to Informational Text, K-2: Best Texts, Best Practices (Corwin Press, 2014). She serves on several advisory boards, including The Path Forward for Teacher Preparation and Licensure in Early Literacy.

    Robert S. Freil, Ed.D

    Dr. Robert S. Freil is the Assistant Superintendent for the South Western School District, Hanover,PA. He has worked for South Western as a member of the Educational Leadership Cabinet since 2017, serving previously as the Director of Curriculum Instruction and Assessment (2017 - 2023) and in his current role as Assistant Superintendent (2023 - present).  Prior to his work at South Western, he spent over 16 years with the Mt. Lebanon School District, Pittsburgh, PA, as Principal (Markham Elementary School 2010 - 2017), an Assistant Principal (Jefferson Middle School 2006 - 2010) and as a High School English teacher (2001 - 2006). He also taught from 1997 - 2001 at the Littlestown Area School District, also as a HS English teacher.   Dr. Freil is an active member of several professional organizations, most notably with PASCD where he has served in multiple leadership roles for the organization, most recently named President Elect for the state organization, beginning the term in 2025 and ending in 2028.  Additionally, he works as an adjunct faculty at McDaniel College in the Innovations of Teaching and Learning program, and previously worked in an adjunct role at Penn West University in the Administration and Secondary Education Department for their K-12 principal certification and Masters of Education program.  He has been able to present at multiple conferences within the state, focused on topics ranging from curricular leadership to literacy leadership, most specifically featured at the 2024 Pennsylvania Literacy Leadership Summit sponsored by the International Dyslexia Association of PA.    His educational background includes a Bachelor’s of Arts in English Education from Westminster College, a Masters of Education in K-12 Administration from California University of PA, and a Doctorate of Education in School Leadership and Administrative and Policy Studies from the University of Pittsburgh.   He and his wife Carlyn have been married for 25 years and have four children - Jonah (23), Evan (21), Audra (18) and Zachary (16). They reside in Hanover PA and are active in their church and with extended family members. 

    Brian Cromer, Ed.D.

    Dr. Brian M. Cromer, a seasoned South Western School District educator, currently serves as the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment in Hanover, PA. His 26-year tenure with the district has spanned various roles, showcasing his dedication to education at all levels. Before his current leadership position, Brian spent sixteen years as an elementary principal at both Manheim Elementary and West Manheim Elementary. In his final two years as a principal, he additionally assumed the role of Elementary Supervisor, overseeing the programmatic initiatives of the district's four elementary schools. Before embarking on his administrative career, Brian taught Physical Education at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Beyond his work within the South Western School District, Brian contributes to the field of education as an adjunct professor at McDaniel College. He focuses on K-12 principal certification within the Educational Leadership program, sharing his expertise and guiding future educational leaders. Brian and his wife, Shannon, reside in Hanover with their three children. Madalyn, a PreK-4 and Special Education major, attends Shippensburg University. Owen will soon embark on his academic journey at Towson University, majoring in Secondary Math. Sullivan, currently a fifth-grader in the South Western School District, rounds out the family. The Cromers enjoy their time together, often spending it at the beach and Chesapeake Bay, indulging in activities like fishing, crabbing, and camping.

    Explore these Resources

    In this episode, we mentioned the following resources:

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    Follow Our Host


    Join Our PLN

    Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.

    Let’s Work Together


    Check Out More TeacherCast Programming


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    For More Information: https://www.TeacherCast.net ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ [gravityform id="2" title="true"]
    19 December 2024, 10:00 am
  • 25 minutes 4 seconds
    The Science of Implementation – Part 1
    In this episode, Jeffrey Bradbury and Laura Stewart discuss the science of reading with Dr. Rob Friel and Dr. Brian Cromer from South Western School District. They explore the importance of leadership in implementing literacy changes, the challenges faced during the transformation, and the significance of building a collaborative culture among educators.   If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

    In This Episode …

    • What is the current landscape of the science of reading?
    • How did the science of reading become a national movement?

    Conversation Takeaways

    • The science of reading is a body of research that informs educational practices.
    • Leadership is crucial in implementing effective literacy programs.
    • Transformational change in literacy requires a methodical approach.
    • Building a collaborative culture enhances educational outcomes.
    • Curriculum development should be an ongoing process.
    • Professional learning and coaching are essential for teacher development.
    • Engaging various stakeholders fosters buy-in and commitment.
    • Intentional collaboration is key to successful implementation.
    • Understanding student needs is vital for effective literacy instruction.
    • The journey of educational transformation takes time and patience. Coaching is essential for effective instructional design.
    • Selecting the right literacy resources is crucial for student success.
    • Teacher preparedness varies, and resources can help bridge gaps.
    • Leaders must be actively involved in classrooms to support teachers.
    • Communication and feedback loops are vital for successful implementation.
    • Patience and perseverance are key attributes for educational leaders.
    • It's important to stay focused on the vision despite distractions.
    • Building a supportive team enhances the implementation process.
    • Continuous improvement is necessary for better learning outcomes.
    • Hope and collaboration drive positive change in education.

    Bold Moves from Theory & Practice


     About the 95 Percent Group

    95 Percent Group is an education company whose mission is to build on science to empower teachers—supplying the knowledge, resources, and support they need—to develop strong readers. Using an approach that is based in structured literacy, the company’s One95 Literacy Ecosystem™ integrates professional learning and evidence-based literacy products into one cohesive system that supports consistent instructional routines across tiers and is proven and trusted to help students close skill gaps and read fluently. 95 Percent Group is also committed to advancing research, best practices, and thought leadership on the science of reading more broadly. For additional information on 95 Percent Group, visit: https://www.95percentgroup.com.

    Links of Interest


    About our Guests

    Laura Stewart

    Laura Stewart is the Chief Academic Officer at 95 Percent Group. She is a nationally recognized Science of Reading and Structured Literacy advocate who has dedicated her career to improving literacy achievement at leading education companies. Stewart has more than 25 years of academic leadership experience. Most recently, she served as the Chief Innovation Officer for The Reading League and Chief Academic Officer for professional development with the Highlights Education Group. Other key education roles include vice president of professional development for the Rowland Reading Foundation and Zaner-Bloser, school district administrator and adjunct professor. She is the author of several training guides and training workshops, as well as 12 children’s books, and the co-author of The Everything Guide to Informational Text, K-2: Best Texts, Best Practices (Corwin Press, 2014). She serves on several advisory boards, including The Path Forward for Teacher Preparation and Licensure in Early Literacy.

    Robert S. Freil, Ed.D

    Dr. Robert S. Freil is the Assistant Superintendent for the South Western School District, Hanover,PA. He has worked for South Western as a member of the Educational Leadership Cabinet since 2017, serving previously as the Director of Curriculum Instruction and Assessment (2017 - 2023) and in his current role as Assistant Superintendent (2023 - present).  Prior to his work at South Western, he spent over 16 years with the Mt. Lebanon School District, Pittsburgh, PA, as Principal (Markham Elementary School 2010 - 2017), an Assistant Principal (Jefferson Middle School 2006 - 2010) and as a High School English teacher (2001 - 2006). He also taught from 1997 - 2001 at the Littlestown Area School District, also as a HS English teacher.   Dr. Freil is an active member of several professional organizations, most notably with PASCD where he has served in multiple leadership roles for the organization, most recently named President Elect for the state organization, beginning the term in 2025 and ending in 2028.  Additionally, he works as an adjunct faculty at McDaniel College in the Innovations of Teaching and Learning program, and previously worked in an adjunct role at Penn West University in the Administration and Secondary Education Department for their K-12 principal certification and Masters of Education program.  He has been able to present at multiple conferences within the state, focused on topics ranging from curricular leadership to literacy leadership, most specifically featured at the 2024 Pennsylvania Literacy Leadership Summit sponsored by the International Dyslexia Association of PA.    His educational background includes a Bachelor’s of Arts in English Education from Westminster College, a Masters of Education in K-12 Administration from California University of PA, and a Doctorate of Education in School Leadership and Administrative and Policy Studies from the University of Pittsburgh.   He and his wife Carlyn have been married for 25 years and have four children - Jonah (23), Evan (21), Audra (18) and Zachary (16). They reside in Hanover PA and are active in their church and with extended family members. 

    Brian Cromer, Ed.D.

    Dr. Brian M. Cromer, a seasoned South Western School District educator, currently serves as the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment in Hanover, PA. His 26-year tenure with the district has spanned various roles, showcasing his dedication to education at all levels. Before his current leadership position, Brian spent sixteen years as an elementary principal at both Manheim Elementary and West Manheim Elementary. In his final two years as a principal, he additionally assumed the role of Elementary Supervisor, overseeing the programmatic initiatives of the district's four elementary schools. Before embarking on his administrative career, Brian taught Physical Education at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Beyond his work within the South Western School District, Brian contributes to the field of education as an adjunct professor at McDaniel College. He focuses on K-12 principal certification within the Educational Leadership program, sharing his expertise and guiding future educational leaders. Brian and his wife, Shannon, reside in Hanover with their three children. Madalyn, a PreK-4 and Special Education major, attends Shippensburg University. Owen will soon embark on his academic journey at Towson University, majoring in Secondary Math. Sullivan, currently a fifth-grader in the South Western School District, rounds out the family. The Cromers enjoy their time together, often spending it at the beach and Chesapeake Bay, indulging in activities like fishing, crabbing, and camping.

    Explore these Resources

    In this episode, we mentioned the following resources:

    Follow Our Podcast And Subscribe


    Follow Our Host


    Join Our PLN

    Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.

    Let’s Work Together


    Check Out More TeacherCast Programming


    Need A Presenter?


    For More Information: https://www.TeacherCast.net ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ [gravityform id="2" title="true"]  
    17 December 2024, 10:00 am
  • 19 minutes 15 seconds
    Six Bold Moves to Protect Your Literacy Investment – Part 2
    In this episode, Jeffrey Bradbury hosts Laura Stewart, Chief Academic Officer at 95 Percent Group, and Robert Palazzo, Supervisor of Curriculum, Student, and Community Services in Panther Valley School District, on the program to discuss courageous leadership in education, particularly in the context of literacy transformation.  If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

    Conversation Takeaways

    • Courageous leadership is essential for transforming literacy in schools.
    • Data-driven decision-making is crucial for effective educational leadership.
    • Transitioning from balanced literacy to structured literacy can significantly improve student outcomes.
    • Understanding the diverse needs of students is key to effective curriculum implementation.
    • Building a culture of collaboration among staff enhances the success of literacy initiatives.
    • Regular assessment and intervention models can better meet student needs.
    • Misconceptions about the science of reading can hinder effective instruction.
    • Every child has the right to learn to read, which opens doors for their future.
    • Engaging students in their learning process fosters a love for reading.
    • Financial commitment to effective resources is necessary for educational transformation.

    About the 95 Percent Group

    95 Percent Group is an education company whose mission is to build on science to empower teachers—supplying the knowledge, resources, and support they need—to develop strong readers. Using an approach that is based in structured literacy, the company’s One95 Literacy Ecosystem™ integrates professional learning and evidence-based literacy products into one cohesive system that supports consistent instructional routines across tiers and is proven and trusted to help students close skill gaps and read fluently. 95 Percent Group is also committed to advancing research, best practices, and thought leadership on the science of reading more broadly. For additional information on 95 Percent Group, visit: https://www.95percentgroup.com.

    The Science of Reading


    Links of Interest:


    Links of Interest


    Follow Our Podcast And Subscribe


    Follow Our Host


    About our Guests

    Laura Stewart

    Laura Stewart is the Chief Academic Officer at 95 Percent Group. She is a nationally recognized Science of Reading and Structured Literacy advocate who has dedicated her career to improving literacy achievement at leading education companies. Stewart has more than 25 years of academic leadership experience. Most recently, she served as the Chief Innovation Officer for The Reading League and Chief Academic Officer for professional development with the Highlights Education Group. Other key education roles include vice president of professional development for the Rowland Reading Foundation and Zaner-Bloser, school district administrator and adjunct professor. She is the author of several training guides and training workshops, as well as 12 children’s books, and the co-author of The Everything Guide to Informational Text, K-2: Best Texts, Best Practices (Corwin Press, 2014). She serves on several advisory boards, including The Path Forward for Teacher Preparation and Licensure in Early Literacy.

    Robert Palazzo

    Mr. Robert Palazzo is the Supervisor of Curriculum, Student, and Community Services in Panther Valley School District. He previously served for 7 years as the Elementary School Principal. Palazzo holds a B.S. in Psychology, an M.S., and a Certificate of Advanced Study in School Psychology from SUNY Oswego, as well as an M.Ed. from Wilkes University in Educational Leadership. Mr. Palazzo was selected as the 2022 NAESP National Distinguished Principal for Pennsylvania and also the 2021 Rural Health Community Star for Pennsylvania from the  National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH). Most recently, Palazzo has worked with the International Dyslexia Association's Pennsylvania Chapter to organize the 2024 Pennsylvania Literacy Leadership Summit, which was held in October 2024. As an administrator, Robert J. Palazzo has proven himself a resourceful leader dedicated to improving learning conditions for all students. When he first became principal, Mr. Palazzo noted low assessment scores among first graders and immediately set out to lobby the school to implement a full-day kindergarten program, highlighting how this would strengthen educational foundations while easing family child care burdens. In 2020-2021, Palazzo took the next step to launch a Pre-K program, the first registered childcare provider in the area, which has expanded to serve 64 students at this time. Palazzo has also worked creatively to build a new playground and innovate reading instruction at Panther Valley, even in the face of funding obstacles. While the school’s previous curriculum was not yielding significant skill growth, students are now exceeding the expected median growth between benchmark assessments on DIBELS thanks to a new literacy program implemented through grant funding. Drawing on 8 years’ previous experience as a school psychologist, Palazzo was quick to act in the wake of a tragedy in the school community and has added mentors, a school social worker, and licensed counselors to the school’s team to address mental health needs in the school community. In the area of the Science of Reading/Structured Literacy, Palazzo has focused on ensuring that explicit instruction is being used across all tiers of the MTSS model. Over the past three years there has been a focus on ensuring that there is sound and high-quality instruction for the Word Recognition strand of Scarborough’s rope and are now moving forward with exploring how to better enhance our instructional practices for the Language Comprehension strand. One of the biggest areas of focus has been the implementation of a cross-grade level Walk to Intervention Model. During this time, all teachers and staff in the building work together to support the individual needs of students. Diagnostic phonics assessments are used every 20 days to monitor student progress and put together new instructional groups based on how students respond to the intervention. Palazzo believes it is crucial that all instructional leaders be knowledgeable and have an active role in the implementation of best practices in literacy.

    Join Our PLN

    Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.

    Let’s Work Together


    Check Out More TeacherCast Programming


    Need A Presenter?


    For More Information: https://www.TeacherCast.net ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ [gravityform id="2" title="true"]
    10 December 2024, 10:00 am
  • 16 minutes 58 seconds
    Six Bold Moves to Protect Your Literacy Investment – Part 1
    In this episode, Jeffrey Bradbury hosts Laura Stewart, Chief Academic Officer at 95 Percent Group, and Robert Palazzo, Supervisor of Curriculum, Student, and Community Services in Panther Valley School District, on the program to discuss courageous leadership in education, particularly in the context of literacy transformation.  If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

    Conversation Takeaways

    • Courageous leadership is essential for transforming literacy in schools.
    • Data-driven decision-making is crucial for effective educational leadership.
    • Transitioning from balanced literacy to structured literacy can significantly improve student outcomes.
    • Understanding the diverse needs of students is key to effective curriculum implementation.
    • Building a culture of collaboration among staff enhances the success of literacy initiatives.
    • Regular assessment and intervention models can better meet student needs.
    • Misconceptions about the science of reading can hinder effective instruction.
    • Every child has the right to learn to read, which opens doors for their future.
    • Engaging students in their learning process fosters a love for reading.
    • Financial commitment to effective resources is necessary for educational transformation.

    About the 95 Percent Group

    95 Percent Group is an education company whose mission is to build on science to empower teachers—supplying the knowledge, resources, and support they need—to develop strong readers. Using an approach that is based in structured literacy, the company’s One95 Literacy Ecosystem™ integrates professional learning and evidence-based literacy products into one cohesive system that supports consistent instructional routines across tiers and is proven and trusted to help students close skill gaps and read fluently. 95 Percent Group is also committed to advancing research, best practices, and thought leadership on the science of reading more broadly. For additional information on 95 Percent Group, visit: https://www.95percentgroup.com.

    The Science of Reading


    Links of Interest:


    Links of Interest


    Follow Our Podcast And Subscribe


    Follow Our Host


    About our Guests

    Laura Stewart

    Laura Stewart is the Chief Academic Officer at 95 Percent Group. She is a nationally recognized Science of Reading and Structured Literacy advocate who has dedicated her career to improving literacy achievement at leading education companies. Stewart has more than 25 years of academic leadership experience. Most recently, she served as the Chief Innovation Officer for The Reading League and Chief Academic Officer for professional development with the Highlights Education Group. Other key education roles include vice president of professional development for the Rowland Reading Foundation and Zaner-Bloser, school district administrator and adjunct professor. She is the author of several training guides and training workshops, as well as 12 children’s books, and the co-author of The Everything Guide to Informational Text, K-2: Best Texts, Best Practices (Corwin Press, 2014). She serves on several advisory boards, including The Path Forward for Teacher Preparation and Licensure in Early Literacy.

    Robert Palazzo

    Mr. Robert Palazzo is the Supervisor of Curriculum, Student, and Community Services in Panther Valley School District. He previously served for 7 years as the Elementary School Principal. Palazzo holds a B.S. in Psychology, an M.S., and a Certificate of Advanced Study in School Psychology from SUNY Oswego, as well as an M.Ed. from Wilkes University in Educational Leadership. Mr. Palazzo was selected as the 2022 NAESP National Distinguished Principal for Pennsylvania and also the 2021 Rural Health Community Star for Pennsylvania from the  National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH). Most recently, Palazzo has worked with the International Dyslexia Association's Pennsylvania Chapter to organize the 2024 Pennsylvania Literacy Leadership Summit, which was held in October 2024. As an administrator, Robert J. Palazzo has proven himself a resourceful leader dedicated to improving learning conditions for all students. When he first became principal, Mr. Palazzo noted low assessment scores among first graders and immediately set out to lobby the school to implement a full-day kindergarten program, highlighting how this would strengthen educational foundations while easing family child care burdens. In 2020-2021, Palazzo took the next step to launch a Pre-K program, the first registered childcare provider in the area, which has expanded to serve 64 students at this time. Palazzo has also worked creatively to build a new playground and innovate reading instruction at Panther Valley, even in the face of funding obstacles. While the school’s previous curriculum was not yielding significant skill growth, students are now exceeding the expected median growth between benchmark assessments on DIBELS thanks to a new literacy program implemented through grant funding. Drawing on 8 years’ previous experience as a school psychologist, Palazzo was quick to act in the wake of a tragedy in the school community and has added mentors, a school social worker, and licensed counselors to the school’s team to address mental health needs in the school community. In the area of the Science of Reading/Structured Literacy, Palazzo has focused on ensuring that explicit instruction is being used across all tiers of the MTSS model. Over the past three years there has been a focus on ensuring that there is sound and high-quality instruction for the Word Recognition strand of Scarborough’s rope and are now moving forward with exploring how to better enhance our instructional practices for the Language Comprehension strand. One of the biggest areas of focus has been the implementation of a cross-grade level Walk to Intervention Model. During this time, all teachers and staff in the building work together to support the individual needs of students. Diagnostic phonics assessments are used every 20 days to monitor student progress and put together new instructional groups based on how students respond to the intervention. Palazzo believes it is crucial that all instructional leaders be knowledgeable and have an active role in the implementation of best practices in literacy.

    Join Our PLN

    Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.

    Let’s Work Together


    Check Out More TeacherCast Programming


    Need A Presenter?


    For More Information: https://www.TeacherCast.net ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ [gravityform id="2" title="true"]
    3 December 2024, 10:00 am
  • 14 minutes 24 seconds
    The National Science of Reading Landscape – Part 2
    In this episode, Jeff Bradbury, Laura Stewart, and Kymyona Burk discuss the importance of literacy instruction and the levers that can improve literacy outcomes for students. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

    In This Episode …

    • What is the current landscape of the science of reading?
    • How did the science of reading become a national movement?

    Conversation Takeaways

    • Investing in teacher knowledge and coaching are key levers for improving literacy outcomes.
    • Funding is essential for implementing effective literacy policies and practices.
    • Teacher preparation programs should include instruction on evidence-based literacy practices.
    • Personal connections and relationships can enhance professional collaborations.
    • Ongoing work is needed to sustain and improve literacy education. Teacher preparation is crucial in ensuring that educators are equipped with the knowledge and skills to teach reading effectively.
    • High-quality instructional materials aligned with the science of reading are essential for supporting teachers in their instruction.
    • The banning of ineffective instructional strategies, such as the three-cueing strategy, is a necessary step in promoting evidence-based reading instruction.
    • Stakeholders, including school boards, play a vital role in implementing and sustaining the science of reading practices.
    • The science of reading movement has gained momentum nationally, with many states adopting policies and initiatives to align with evidence-based reading instruction.
    • There is hope for improving literacy outcomes for all students, and the success achieved in Mississippi serves as an example of what is possible with investment in teacher knowledge and support.

    The Science of Reading


    About the 95 Percent Group

    95 Percent Group is an education company whose mission is to build on science to empower teachers—supplying the knowledge, resources, and support they need—to develop strong readers. Using an approach that is based in structured literacy, the company’s One95 Literacy Ecosystem™ integrates professional learning and evidence-based literacy products into one cohesive system that supports consistent instructional routines across tiers and is proven and trusted to help students close skill gaps and read fluently. 95 Percent Group is also committed to advancing research, best practices, and thought leadership on the science of reading more broadly. For additional information on 95 Percent Group, visit: https://www.95percentgroup.com.

    Links of Interest


    About our Guests

    Laura Stewart

    Laura Stewart is the Chief Academic Officer at 95 Percent Group. She is a nationally recognized Science of Reading and Structured Literacy advocate who has dedicated her career to improving literacy achievement at leading education companies. Stewart has more than 25 years of academic leadership experience. Most recently, she served as the Chief Innovation Officer for The Reading League and Chief Academic Officer for professional development with the Highlights Education Group. Other key education roles include vice president of professional development for the Rowland Reading Foundation and Zaner-Bloser, school district administrator and adjunct professor. She is the author of several training guides and training workshops, as well as 12 children’s books, and the co-author of The Everything Guide to Informational Text, K-2: Best Texts, Best Practices (Corwin Press, 2014). She serves on several advisory boards, including The Path Forward for Teacher Preparation and Licensure in Early Literacy.

    Kymyona Burk, Ed.D.

    Kymyona Burk is a Senior Policy Fellow at ExcelinEd. In this role, she supports states pursuing a comprehensive approach to K-3 reading policy by assisting state leaders in building new or improving existing K-3 reading policies, with a heavy focus on supporting successful policy implementation. Kymyona most recently served in Mississippi as the Executive Director for the Jackson Public School District’s Office of Teaching and Learning and led all aspects of the district’s instructional programming. Prior to this, she was the State Literacy Director at the Mississippi Department of Education where she led the implementation of Mississippi’s Literacy-Based Promotion Act. Kymyona began her career as an elementary reading teacher and has also taught middle and high school English. At Jackson State University, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Master of Arts in Teaching English, Master of Science in Education Administration and Supervision and a Doctor of Education in Early Childhood Education.

    Explore these Resources

    In this episode, we mentioned the following resources:

    Follow Our Podcast And Subscribe


    Follow Our Host


    Join Our PLN

    Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.

    Let’s Work Together


    Check Out More TeacherCast Programming


    Need A Presenter?


    For More Information: https://www.TeacherCast.net ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ [gravityform id="2" title="true"]
    26 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 17 minutes 10 seconds
    The National Science of Reading Landscape – Part 1
    In this episode, Jeff Bradbury, Laura Stewart, and Kymyona Burk discuss the importance of literacy instruction and the levers that can improve literacy outcomes for students. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

    In This Episode …

    • What is the current landscape of the science of reading?
    • How did the science of reading become a national movement?

    Conversation Takeaways

    • Investing in teacher knowledge and coaching are key levers for improving literacy outcomes.
    • Funding is essential for implementing effective literacy policies and practices.
    • Teacher preparation programs should include instruction on evidence-based literacy practices.
    • Personal connections and relationships can enhance professional collaborations.
    • Ongoing work is needed to sustain and improve literacy education. Teacher preparation is crucial in ensuring that educators are equipped with the knowledge and skills to teach reading effectively.
    • High-quality instructional materials aligned with the science of reading are essential for supporting teachers in their instruction.
    • The banning of ineffective instructional strategies, such as the three-cueing strategy, is a necessary step in promoting evidence-based reading instruction.
    • Stakeholders, including school boards, play a vital role in implementing and sustaining the science of reading practices.
    • The science of reading movement has gained momentum nationally, with many states adopting policies and initiatives to align with evidence-based reading instruction.
    • There is hope for improving literacy outcomes for all students, and the success achieved in Mississippi serves as an example of what is possible with investment in teacher knowledge and support.

    The Science of Reading


    About the 95 Percent Group

    95 Percent Group is an education company whose mission is to build on science to empower teachers—supplying the knowledge, resources, and support they need—to develop strong readers. Using an approach that is based in structured literacy, the company’s One95 Literacy Ecosystem™ integrates professional learning and evidence-based literacy products into one cohesive system that supports consistent instructional routines across tiers and is proven and trusted to help students close skill gaps and read fluently. 95 Percent Group is also committed to advancing research, best practices, and thought leadership on the science of reading more broadly. For additional information on 95 Percent Group, visit: https://www.95percentgroup.com.

    Links of Interest


    About our Guests

    Laura Stewart

    Laura Stewart is the Chief Academic Officer at 95 Percent Group. She is a nationally recognized Science of Reading and Structured Literacy advocate who has dedicated her career to improving literacy achievement at leading education companies. Stewart has more than 25 years of academic leadership experience. Most recently, she served as the Chief Innovation Officer for The Reading League and Chief Academic Officer for professional development with the Highlights Education Group. Other key education roles include vice president of professional development for the Rowland Reading Foundation and Zaner-Bloser, school district administrator and adjunct professor. She is the author of several training guides and training workshops, as well as 12 children’s books, and the co-author of The Everything Guide to Informational Text, K-2: Best Texts, Best Practices (Corwin Press, 2014). She serves on several advisory boards, including The Path Forward for Teacher Preparation and Licensure in Early Literacy.

    Kymyona Burk, Ed.D.

    Kymyona Burk is a Senior Policy Fellow at ExcelinEd. In this role, she supports states pursuing a comprehensive approach to K-3 reading policy by assisting state leaders in building new or improving existing K-3 reading policies, with a heavy focus on supporting successful policy implementation. Kymyona most recently served in Mississippi as the Executive Director for the Jackson Public School District’s Office of Teaching and Learning and led all aspects of the district’s instructional programming. Prior to this, she was the State Literacy Director at the Mississippi Department of Education where she led the implementation of Mississippi’s Literacy-Based Promotion Act. Kymyona began her career as an elementary reading teacher and has also taught middle and high school English. At Jackson State University, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Master of Arts in Teaching English, Master of Science in Education Administration and Supervision and a Doctor of Education in Early Childhood Education.

    Explore these Resources

    In this episode, we mentioned the following resources:

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    19 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 33 minutes 16 seconds
    Empathy in Education: How Middle School Students Can Step into Administrators’ Shoes
    In this episode of Digital Learning Today, hosts Jeffrey Bradbury and Diane Manser explore the concept of empathy in education, particularly through a project called Middle School 2.0. They discuss how this project allows students to step into the shoes of educators, fostering understanding and respect. The conversation covers various aspects of the project, including creative development, branding, course creation, budgeting, and empowering students to take ownership of their learning. The episode emphasizes the importance of empathy, creativity, and real-world skills in the classroom. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

    In This Episode …

    • Why is it important for students to learn about Empathy?
      • How can we help students understand the challenges faced by school administrators?
      • What are some effective ways to put students in an administrator's shoes?
      • How does experiencing an administrator's perspective enhance empathy in students?
      • What are the potential benefits of increased empathy between students and administrators?
      • How can this empathy exercise improve the overall school environment?

    • Helping Students Create a School of their Own
      • School Building 2.0
        • Introduction
          • What do you like about your school?
          • What would you like to see changed?

        • Graphic Design
          • New District Colors (Brand Kit) (Google Slides)
          • Create a New District Logo (Google Drawings)
          • New Website Banner (Google Drawings)

        • New School Website (Google Sites)
        • New Mission & Vision Statement (Google Docs)
        • New Curriculum
          • What classes do you like?
          • What classes would you like to see in the school?

        • Budget (Google Sheets)
          • What items are needed for new classes? / How much will they cost?
          • Do those items and the new class fit into the budget?

        • Designing a new school building (Google Sheets)


    • Project Take aways
    • Student Reactions
    • Parent Reactions
    • Administrator Reactions

    Conversation Takeaways

    • Empathy helps students understand different perspectives.
    • Engaging students in project-based learning fosters creativity.
    • Students can learn valuable skills through real-world applications.
    • Creating a school brand involves thoughtful decision-making.
    • Course descriptions should be well-structured and informative.
    • Budgeting teaches students about resource management.
    • Students benefit from taking ownership of their education.
    • Collaboration enhances the learning experience.
    • Empowering students leads to greater engagement.
    • Future projects can build on the success of current initiatives.

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Introduction to Empathy in Education
    • 03:00 The Middle School 2.0 Project
    • 06:05 Understanding Student Perspectives
    • 09:09 Creative Project Development
    • 12:09 Building a School Brand
    • 14:56 Course Creation and Description Writing
    • 17:59 Budgeting and Resource Allocation
    • 20:59 Finalizing the Project
    • 23:55 Empowering Students Through Ownership
    • 27:03 Future Projects and Conclusion

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    18 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 17 minutes 22 seconds
    What are the 10 Principles of Literacy Instruction?
    In this episode of the Digital Learning Today Podcast, Jeff welcomes Laura Stewart, Chief Academic Officer from the 95 Percent Group, onto the podcast to learn about the 10 Principles of Literacy Instruction. Together they discuss the need for explicit instruction, repeatable routines, and data-driven practices to enhance literacy education. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

    In This Episode …

    • The Science of Reading is crucial for effective teaching.
    • Explicit instruction is essential for learning to read.
    • Repeatable routines help students focus on content.
    • Data collection must inform instructional practices.
    • Evidence alignment ensures resources are effective.
    • Implementation science bridges research and practice.
    • Feedback on the 10 Principles has been positive.
    • Leadership is key in transforming literacy practices.

    Top Ten Principles of Literacy Instruction

    Links of Interest:


    About the 95 Percent Group

    95 Percent Group is an education company whose mission is to build on science to empower teachers—supplying the knowledge, resources, and support they need—to develop strong readers. Using an approach that is based in structured literacy, the company’s One95 Literacy Ecosystem™ integrates professional learning and evidence-based literacy products into one cohesive system that supports consistent instructional routines across tiers and is proven and trusted to help students close skill gaps and read fluently. 95 Percent Group is also committed to advancing research, best practices, and thought leadership on the science of reading more broadly. For additional information on 95 Percent Group, visit: https://www.95percentgroup.com.

    Links of Interest


    About our Guests

    Laura Stewart

    Laura Stewart is the Chief Academic Officer at 95 Percent Group. She is a nationally recognized Science of Reading and Structured Literacy advocate who has dedicated her career to improving literacy achievement at leading education companies. Stewart has more than 25 years of academic leadership experience. Most recently, she served as the Chief Innovation Officer for The Reading League and Chief Academic Officer for professional development with the Highlights Education Group. Other key education roles include vice president of professional development for the Rowland Reading Foundation and Zaner-Bloser, school district administrator and adjunct professor. She is the author of several training guides and training workshops, as well as 12 children’s books, and the co-author of The Everything Guide to Informational Text, K-2: Best Texts, Best Practices (Corwin Press, 2014). She serves on several advisory boards, including The Path Forward for Teacher Preparation and Licensure in Early Literacy.

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    Join Our PLN

    Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.

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    13 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 24 minutes 42 seconds
    What is a Fortnite Physics Playground?
    In this episode of the Digital Learning Today Podcast, Jeff welcomes Andrew Vanden Heuvel onto the show to discuss how he is using Fortnite to teach complex scientific principals to students of all ages. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

    In This Episode …

    • Video games make awesome laboratories: Virtual worlds make excellent pedagogical tools for science educators. They allow us to bend the laws of reality, enter into life-sized experiments, and recreate famous experiments from history.
    • Why Fortnite? It's popular, it's playable on almost any device, and it has an incredible set of game creation tools (Fortnite Creative + Unreal Editor for Fortnite). Also, Fortnite's Replay mode can turn Fortnite into a virtual production studio, enabling amazing storytelling projects far beyond the scope of our science project.
    • Fortnite and the Metaverse: I would argue the Fortnite can/should be thought of as one of the most widely adopted "metaverse" platforms available, and that (as such), it should be taken seriously by educators, employers, and other adults.
    • The Fortnite Virtual Laboratory Curriculum: With the support of a MegaGrant from Epic Games, I created a set of virtual lab activities published as Fortnite Islands.
    • The Fortnite Physics Playground: This free-play Fortnite island allows students to design their own physics experiments and extract the player's motion data in real-time from the game.

    About our Guest:

    Andrew Vanden Heuvel is an award-winning science educator recognized for using technology to create immersive learning experiences. He is an online astronomy professor teaching at colleges across the country. Andrew has consulted with organizations like NASA, Google, TED-Ed, and Epic Games to create engaging science content. His greatest joy is sharing his passion for the universe with learners worldwide, inspiring curiosity while making complex concepts accessible and fun.

    Links of Interest


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    30 October 2024, 10:00 am
  • 24 minutes 42 seconds
    Google Slides Flipbook Style Animations: Teach Your Students How to Think Outside the Slide!
    In this conversation, Jeffrey Bradbury and Diane Manser explore the transformative power of digital tools in education, particularly focusing on Google animations. They discuss how these tools can enhance creativity, engagement, and learning across various subjects, while also addressing the emotional challenges teachers face and the importance of resilience and empowerment in the profession. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today! [convertkit form=7230980]

    Conversation Takeaways

    • Google Slides can be used creatively to make animations.
    • Students can engage with animation concepts through familiar movies.
    • Creating flipbook animations helps students understand the animation process.
    • Using Google Slides allows for unique features not found in other presentation tools.
    • The lesson plan for animations is available on TeacherCast.
    • Students can express their creativity through animation projects.
    • Animation festivals in classrooms can be a fun learning experience.
    • Technical challenges can arise, but they can be managed effectively.
    • Understanding the history of animation can enhance student interest.
    • Collaboration and sharing ideas among educators can improve teaching strategies.
    • The transition from physical to digital learning opens new avenues for creativity.
    • Digital tools can be integrated into various subjects, enhancing student engagement.
    • Teaching digital citizenship is essential in today's technology-driven classrooms.
    • Students can take ownership of their learning through creative projects.
    • Using animations in lessons can make complex topics more accessible and fun.
    • Empowering students leads to better learning outcomes and classroom dynamics.
    • Teachers can alleviate stress by incorporating engaging digital projects.
    • Collaboration and sharing among educators can lead to innovative teaching practices.
    • Resilience is key for teachers to navigate the challenges of the profession.
    • Connecting with aspiring educators can inspire and motivate current teachers.

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    23 October 2024, 10:00 am
  • 36 minutes 29 seconds
    Unlocking Student Potential: The Impact of Digital Badging and Micro Credentials in Education
    In this episode of Digital Learning Today, hosts Jeffrey Bradbury and Diane Mansour delve into the concept of micro credentials and digital badging in education. They discuss the implementation of a badging program in the classroom, focusing on how it can enhance student engagement and motivation. The conversation also touches on the importance of curriculum development, the use of technology tools like Notion, and future plans for expanding the badging program. Throughout the episode, the hosts share insights and practical tips for educators looking to adopt similar strategies in their teaching. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

    Digital Learning Tip of the Week

    Tip # Do Micro Credentials Provide Incentive for Student Learning? To get our weekly Instructional Coaching Tips sent right to your inbox, please subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

    In This Episode …

    1. Introduction to Student Micro credentials and Digital Badging
    • Definition and concept of micro credentials and digital badges
    • Historical context and evolution in education
    • Importance in modern learning environments

    2. Overview of Google Applications
    • Introduction to Google Workspace for Education
    • Detailed exploration of key applications:
      • Google Docs: Collaborative document creation and editing
      • Google Sheets: Data analysis and visualization
      • Google Slides: Interactive presentation tools
      • Google Forms: Survey and assessment creation
      • Other relevant Google tools for education


    3. Benefits of Implementing a Badging Program
    • Enhanced student motivation and engagement
    • Tangible skill recognition and validation
    • Improved career readiness and employability
    • Personalized learning pathways
    • Increased student autonomy and self-directed learning

    4. Creating a Google Applications Badging Program
    • Identifying key skills and competencies for each application
    • Designing badge levels: beginner, intermediate, advanced
    • Developing comprehensive assessment criteria
    • Creating engaging badge designs
    • Establishing a system for badge issuance and verification

    5. Implementation Strategies
    • Integrating badges into existing curriculum
    • Providing teacher training and ongoing support
    • Developing an effective student onboarding process
    • Creating a supportive school culture around digital badges
    • Involving parents and community in the badging process

    6. Case Studies and Success Stories
    • Examples of successful implementation in various educational settings
    • Lessons learned from early adopters
    • Student testimonials and experiences

    7. Challenges and Solutions in Digital Badging
    • Addressing concerns about badge validity and recognition
    • Overcoming technical challenges in implementation
    • Ensuring equity and access for all students
    • Maintaining motivation and engagement long-term

    Conversation Takeaways

    • Micro credentials can enhance student motivation and engagement.
    • Digital badging provides a tangible recognition of student achievements.
    • Implementing a badging program requires careful planning and curriculum design.
    • Using technology tools like Notion can streamline lesson planning and organization.
    • Student feedback is crucial for improving the badging process.
    • Creating a digital learning passport can help track student progress.
    • Incorporating choice boards can provide flexibility in student learning.
    • Collaboration with peers can lead to innovative teaching strategies.
    • Adjusting materials based on student needs is essential for effective teaching.
    • Future plans include making resources available to the broader educational community.

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Introduction to Micro Credentials
    • 04:39 The Concept of Digital Badging
    • 12:14 Implementing Badging in the Classroom
    • 18:47 Student Engagement and Motivation
    • 25:20 Future Plans and Open Source Ideas

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    16 October 2024, 10:00 am
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