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.
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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...
