"Literacy Leadership" The Learning Ally Podcast with Dr. Terrie Noland, CALP

In the final segment of their Change-makers podcast miniseries, Dr. Terrie Noland is joined by colleagues Linda Diamond, Dr. Tim Odegard, and Dr. Tracy Weeden. The group reflects on what they learned about leading large and modeling for others throughout the series. They discuss various takeaways from the esteemed guests they've hosted, emphasizing themes such as the importance of involving all stakeholders, acknowledging the shortcomings in the education system, growing as a leader, the humility necessary in leadership, and the importance of maintaining a growth journey. The conversation highlights the attributes and actions necessary for educators and staff to contribute effectively to systemic change in the teaching and learning landscape. Key Points: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:40 Reflections on the Leadership Journey 00:56 Key Takeaways from Esteemed Guests 01:17 The Importance of Involving Stakeholders 02:58 The Challenge of Depletion of Human Capital 03:32 The Role of Higher Education 04:12 The Power of Measured Voices 04:56 Bringing Honor Back to Teaching 05:16 The Impact of Change and Leadership 09:36 The Role of Parents in Education 11:05 The Importance of Growth and Learning 13:39 The Power of Humility and Vulnerability 16:43 The Role of Literacy in Shaping the Future 18:09 The Impact of Personal Experiences on Leadership 18:43 The Importance of Professional Learning 23:53 The Power of Hope and the Journey of Change 42:16 Conclusion: The Power of Leadership in Education --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

In this episode, the co-hosts are joined by Ameer Baraka, an award-winning actor, author, dyslexia advocate, youth mentor, and prison coach. Baraka shares his inspiring journey of being a dyslexic who learnt to read as an adult due to his dyslexia not being diagnosed during his childhood. He highlights his descent into a criminal life and his eventual rise to success through education. Having benefited from mentors who encouraged him and believed in his potential, Baraka highlights the importance of mentorship and the need for early dyslexia screening and remediation. Baraka uses his life story to inspire others and advocates for literacy as a way of combating the high incarceration rates. Visit LearningAlly.org to find out more about how you can unlock student potential through our equitable literacy solutions. Key Points: 00:04 Introduction and Welcome 01:24 Introducing the Guest: Ameer Baraka 02:42 Ameer's Early Life and Struggles 04:55 Ameer's Journey into Crime and Drug Addiction 08:42 Ameer's Incarceration and Self-Realization 09:17 Ameer's Path to Literacy and Self-Improvement 14:32 Ameer's Advocacy for Early Dyslexia Screening 19:48 Ameer's Role in the First Step Act 23:30 Ameer's Views on Education and Society 27:04 Experiencing the System: Personal Insights 27:18 The State of Education: A Critical Look 29:12 The Power of Mentorship: Personal Stories 32:06 The Impact of Incarceration: A Discussion 37:22 The Power of Literacy: A Personal Journey 42:22 The Future of Literacy: A Vision 44:28 The Power of Storytelling: A Personal Mission 46:57 The Role of Literacy in Society: A Discussion 49:32 The Power of Literacy: A Call to Action 50:47 Conclusion: The Journey Ahead --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

In this episode of the Literacy Leadership Change-makers miniseries, hosts Dr. Terrie Noland, Dr. Tracy Weeden, Dr. Tim Odegard and Linda Diamond converse with Resha Conroy, the founder of the Dyslexia Alliance for Black Children. As a mother of two children with learning disabilities, Resha shares her journey of fighting for her children’s education and breaking from the low expectations set for black students. The discussion dives deep into transformative literacy, the importance of evidence-based reading instruction, and the need for literacy and equity to go hand in hand for inclusive education and societal transformation. The hosts and Resha also explore the critical role of parents and the community in advocating for equitable access to education and literacy resources. Key Points: 00:00 Introduction to Literacy Leadership Change-makers Miniseries 00:30 Highlighting the Parent Perspective in Literacy Movement 00:58 Introducing Resha Conroy: A Powerful Voice in Literacy Transformation 02:00 Resha's Personal Journey to Becoming an Education Advocate 04:41 The Formation of Dyslexia Alliance for Black Children 06:28 The Impact of Reading Challenges on Resha's Family 12:34 The Systemic Nature of Reading Challenges and the Role of Parents 14:31 The Historical Perspective of Literacy and Its Impact on Black Children 17:23 The Importance of Literacy in Achieving Equity 19:33 The Role of Parents and Community in Advocating for Literacy 20:34 The Need for Evidence-Based Literacy Instruction in Schools 25:23 The Importance of Asking the Right Questions as a Parent 29:25 The Political Struggle for Education Reform 31:05 The Power of Advocacy and Community Action 31:58 The Concept of Floating Schools: Immediate Solutions for Literacy 33:26 The Importance of Immediate Action and Systemic Change 34:51 The Generational Impact of Illiteracy 36:28 The Power of Literacy in Transforming Lives 44:03 The Role of Literacy in Accessing Systems and Resources 46:18 The Importance of Celebrating Cultural Diversity in Education 49:42 The Power of Resilience and Determination in Overcoming Challenges 52:14 The Role of Faith and Hope in Driving Change 54:24 Conclusion: The Need for Community Catalysts in Education --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

This episode features an impassioned discussion with Sonya Thomas, the executive director of Nashville Propel, known for her fierce advocacy in the field of literacy transformation. She shares her personal struggle with her son being unable to read at grade level, pushing her towards transforming parental literacy advocacy and founding Nashville PROPEL, a Nashville, TN group that organizes and develops powerful parent leaders that demand equitable education policies and practices. Engaging in a symphony of voices advocating for literacy leadership, Sonya voices her anger and determination to change the systemic failures of the educational system. Mentioning literacy as a broader societal issue, not limited by race, color or creed, Sonya specifically empathizes with parents’ struggles. The episode encourages listeners to champion the rights of all children to read through collective advocacy and calls for a deeper understanding of literacy beyond quick-fix solutions. Key Points: 00:04 Introduction: The Power of Literacy Transformation 00:52 Meet the Panel: Advocacy and Community in Literacy Leadership 01:54 Guest Spotlight: Sonya Thomas and Nashville Propel 02:39 Sonya's Personal Journey: The Fight for Literacy 04:57 The Impact of Illiteracy: A Personal Perspective 05:45 The Birth of Nashville Propel: A Movement for Change 06:41 The Betrayal of the Education System: A Parent's Perspective 07:44 The Emotional Damage of Illiteracy: A Call to Action 08:51 The Power of Parent Advocacy: Building a Movement 09:10 The Struggle for Academic Achievement in the Black Community 11:34 The Right to Read: A Human Rights Issue 13:32 The Role of Parents in Literacy Advocacy 15:41 The Importance of Reading: A Life-Changing Skill 16:48 The State of Literacy in Nashville: A Call for Accountability 23:31 The Role of Leadership in Literacy Advocacy 27:52 The Dirty Secret of Illiteracy 28:55 Channeling Passion into Constructive Outcomes 29:15 The Role of Parents and Educators in Literacy 30:11 The Struggle of Reading and Poor Instruction 30:59 The Pain of Dyslexia and Dystaughtia 33:18 The Fight for Literacy: A Personal Journey 35:11 The Importance of Educating Educators 37:55 The Power of Storytelling in Advocacy 46:28 The Struggles of Parents and the Socioeconomic Problem 49:58 The Importance of Data and Understanding Reading 52:16 The Role of Nashville Propel in Literacy Advocacy 54:20 Closing Remarks --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

In this episode of our Change-makers podcast miniseries, Dr. Terrie Noland is joined by co-hosts Linda Diamond, Dr. Tracy White Weeden, and Dr. Tim Odegard to converse with guest Dr. Stephanie Stollar. Dr. Stollar discusses how we should educate pre-service teachers about the science of reading. She stresses on the 'silo-effect' and the importance of integrating teaching approaches within universities to better align with current research and effective teaching methodologies. The episode additionally explores policy changes as potential enablers to adapt science-oriented approaches in higher education. The conversation delves into the complexities of teacher training, the reality of the classroom environment, and understanding the difference in qualitative and quantitative research to help accelerate student outcomes. The participants also debate how universities need to play a more active role in creating teachers who can systematically apply teaching methodologies that have shown proven results from scientific research. Key Points: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:51 Introducing the Special Guest 02:43 The Disconnect in Higher Education 03:50 The Role of Higher Education in Developing Quality Educators 06:39 The Importance of Engaging with Research Literature 07:22 The Liability of Lack of Engagement with Empirical Research 09:31 The Role of Qualitative Research in Education 11:41 The Impact of Personal Philosophy on Teaching Reading 13:28 The Role of Higher Education in Preventing Educator Failure 30:01 The Role of Policy in Higher Education 36:52 The Importance of Setting People Up for Success 37:54 The Need for Integration of Initiatives at the State Level 38:38 Engaging Universities in the Education Process 39:26 The Role of Communication in Education 40:31 The Power of Partnerships in Education 41:42 The Impact of University Education on Teacher Training 42:19 The Importance of Infrastructure for Change in Education 43:20 The Role of Policy in Changing Teacher Preparation 45:35 The Need for Acceleration in University Education 56:05 The Challenge of Accessing Academic Content for Teachers 01:06:28 The Role of In-Service Professional Development in Building Teacher Knowledge 01:08:54 The Importance of Community in Literacy Leadership --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

In this episode of the Change-makers podcast miniseries from Learning Ally, literacy experts discuss strategies, opportunities, and challenges in improving literacy for multilingual learners. The discussion is led by co-hosts Linda Diamond, Dr. Terrie Noland, Dr. Tracy Weeden, and Dr. Tim Odegard, as they talk with featured guest Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan, a bilingual expert and literacy advocate. The conversation delves into the importance of literacy for multilingual learners, the role of educators in creating an inclusive and enriching learning environment, and strategies to effectively teach reading to multilingual learners. They also address the need for effective screening, assessment, and early, targeted intervention in literacy education for multilingual learners. Additionally, the complexities of aligning the science of reading to the needs of multilingual learners are discussed, with a focus on the challenges and potential solutions for implementing evidence-based practices in classrooms. Key Points: 00:04 Introduction to Literacy Transformation 00:57 Introducing the Guest Speaker: Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan 02:25 Understanding the Science of Reading for Multilingual Learners 04:53 The Importance of Oral Language Proficiency in Literacy 05:43 The Role of Phoneme Awareness in Multilingual Learning 06:33 The Impact of Vocabulary and Comprehension on Multilingual Learning 06:49 The Importance of Evidence-Based Practices in Multilingual Learning 07:41 Specific Considerations for Improving Literacy Outcomes for Multilingual Learners 08:58 The Role of Phoneme Awareness in Multilingual Learning 11:00 The Importance of Fluency and Vocabulary in Multilingual Learning 16:02 The Challenges and Barriers to Implementing Multilingual Learning Practices 19:29 Effective and Appropriate Ways to Assess and Screen Multilingual Learners 26:43 The Importance of Data in Multilingual Learning 29:16 Finding Common Ground Between Advocates of Multilingual Students and the Science of Reading 33:14 Discussing Change Management and Social Contracts 33:45 The Role of Grassroots Activism in Social Change 34:35 Personal and Professional Lessons from Activism 35:36 The Importance of Community Involvement in Change 37:50 The Impact of Literacy on Job Opportunities 39:11 The Role of AI in the Knowledge Economy 40:13 The Power of Partnerships in Achieving Goals 40:32 The Importance of Individual Action in Change 41:22 The Role of Leadership in Community Change 41:53 The Importance of Involving Others in Change 42:36 The Role of Literacy in Community Development 44:51 The Challenges of Marginalized Communities 51:03 The Importance of Early Intervention in Literacy 51:59 The Impact of Legislation on Literacy Education 52:36 The Role of Technology in Addressing Literacy Gaps 59:16 The Importance of Parental Involvement in Literacy Education 01:04:02 Closing Remarks and Reflections on Literacy Leadership --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

In this insightful episode, we dive deep into the journey of literacy transformation with Dr. Robert Sahli, Assistant Superintendent in Lodi Unified School District, California. The discussion covers a range of topics like the importance of phonemic awareness and phonics, the impact of coaching and continuous professional development, and the importance of early interventions and systematic instructions. Dr. Sahli also talks about the challenges of the pandemic and how it impacted the education system and how he navigated through it by using technology and virtual training for teachers. There are also discussions about the importance of English Language learner institutes and the approaches taken to improve literacy proficiency among multi-language learners. Join Learning Ally's award-winning Educator Community! Key Points 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:08 Introducing the Guest Speaker 01:38 In-depth Discussion with Dr. Robert Sahli 02:42 Understanding Lodi Unified School District 05:06 Implementing the Science of Reading Process 06:01 Overcoming Challenges during the Pandemic 07:18 Expanding the Reading Program 07:31 Addressing the Teacher Shortage 10:11 Improving Literacy Outcomes for Multilingual Learners 14:17 Addressing the Needs of Migrant Students 16:10 The Importance of Ongoing Professional Development 17:08 The Impact of COVID-19 on Literacy Outcomes 18:49 The Importance of Early Literacy Assessment 19:50 The Role of Administrators in Literacy Transformation 19:50 The Role of Coaches in Literacy Transformation 36:04 The Importance of Family Engagement in Literacy 38:51 The Importance of Knowledge for Administrators 47:20 Avoiding Initiative Overload 48:22 The Importance of Ongoing Coaching and Support 52:14 Conclusion and Farewell --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

In this episode, guest Dr. Rebecca Tolson shares her valuable insights on literacy leadership, transformation, and the importance of professional development. She emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to literacy, incorporating structured literacy, and stresses the importance of coaching and support for teachers' growth. The need for decision-making based on a balance of qualitative and quantitative data, as well as the elimination of silos in education systems, is also discussed. Rebecca also highlights some practical examples of leadership and change within Ohio's educational landscape. The discussion concludes with thoughts on the importance of empowering teachers and students, particularly in marginalized communities. Don't miss this thoughtful episode, and check out Learning Ally's ⁠Solutions for Schools⁠! Key Points: 00:04 Introduction and Welcome 01:45 Introducing the Guest Speaker 03:30 Guest Speaker's Journey in Literacy Education 05:55 The Importance of Professional Development in Literacy 09:51 The Role of Screening and Intervention in Literacy Education 24:37 The Importance of Leadership in Literacy Transformation 30:26 The Role of Compliance and Passion in Literacy Education 32:31 The Importance of Emotional Connection in Teaching 32:55 The Role of Superintendents in Education 33:29 The Power of Data in Education 33:51 Addressing Defiance in the Classroom 34:59 The Need for a Structured Approach in Multilingual Education 35:58 The Journey of Teaching and Learning 36:11 The Importance of Oral Language and Listening Comprehension 37:11 The Role of Professional Development in Education 37:59 The Importance of Small Steps in Teaching 38:27 The Challenges of Teaching Writing 39:41 The Role of Data in Education 43:44 The Importance of Accountability in Education 44:48 The Role of Effective Professional Development and Coaching 53:41 The Importance of Triangulating Data in Education 56:07 The Role of Leadership in Education 58:16 The Importance of Literacy for Life 58:43 The Impact of Qualitative Conditions on Teachers 01:03:05 Closing Remarks and Reflections --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

In this episode, Dr. Michelle Rodriguez discusses her work as Superintendent of Pajaro Valley Unified School District in transforming literacy education. She shares how implementing targeted literacy programs, committing administrators to learning, and directly working with teachers and the community have led to major improvements. The discussion focuses on the district's success with systemic programs to make reading skills automatic, while emphasizing the vital roles of piloting to scale, consistency, sustainability, and using data to validate effectiveness. Check out Learning Ally's ⁠Spotlight on Literacy Leadership⁠ event, now on-demand, for a great place to start learning! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

Join us for this fifth episode of our miniseries, where our co-hosts are joined by the illustrious Dr. Art Cavazos, a dedicated educator and visionary administrator. Explore Dr. Cavazos' inspiring journey and gain profound insights into implementing change in the education context. Discover the importance of crafting a vision, fostering a growth mindset, and overcoming opposition with persistence. Dr. Cavazos shares practical strategies from his successful literacy initiatives, making this episode a must-listen for educators and change-makers. Join Learning Ally's award-winning Educator Community! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

Welcome to an eye-opening episode where we're joined by Dr. Allison Peck, a leading expert in literacy education from the Neuhaus Education Center. Dr. Peck delves into the pivotal topic of the implementation of the Science of Reading and its potentially profound impact on our schools and communities. We’ll discuss the pressing need for structured literacy and how it's transforming the way we teach reading. Education leaders need to be knowledgeable and well-prepared in structured literacy and backed by ongoing support and professional development. The benefits for students are immense. Dr. Peck passionately advocates for a system where every student, regardless of background, has the opportunity to develop strong reading skills. Join us as we embark on a journey to empower our schools, our teachers, and most importantly, our students through the science of reading. It's a conversation that will reshape your perspective on education. Don't miss it, and check out Learning Ally's Solutions for Schools! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

Join our co-hosts and Kareem Weaver as they discuss the profound impact of literacy on society. From its historical context to its connection to social justice, literacy has shaped the course of human existence. In an increasingly digital and knowledge-based economy, access to literacy is essential for success and equal opportunities. The conversation delves into the school-to-prison pipeline and the dire consequences that illiteracy brings. Tune in to this thought-provoking episode to understand the true significance of literacy and why it is a societal imperative. Don't miss this all-hands-on-deck moment in the pursuit of literacy as a human right! Join Learning Ally's Educator Community to get started on this important work and learn together. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

In this episode, our esteemed co-hosts share their personal journeys and highlight the characteristics of effective literacy leaders. They emphasize the need for leaders who are constant learners, empower their educators, and provide the necessary resources and support. They also discuss the moral imperative of ensuring literacy for all children and the transformative power of words and storytelling. Overall, the episode emphasizes the important role of literacy leaders in creating a brighter, more literate future. Check out Learning Ally's Spotlight on Literacy Leadership event, now on-demand, for a great place to start! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

This is the opening episode in a Change-makers podcast miniseries featuring co-hosts Dr. Terrie Noland, Linda Diamond, Dr. Tim Odegard, and Dr. Tracy White Weeden. Our hosts discuss the importance of literacy leadership and the impact of literacy on individuals and society. They reflect on past efforts such as Reading First and Common Core, and discuss the lessons learned and the need for continuous learning and growth in the field of literacy. They emphasize the importance of leadership that adds value, continuous learning, and partnerships with stakeholders to drive change in literacy education. The leaders envision a future where leaders are well-prepared and equipped to address the challenges of literacy education and ensure that every student has the opportunity to become literate. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

We must move from a ME to WE mindset in education.  The concept of collective efficacy produces significant outcomes for students.  This podcast dives into why every student needs a crowd of educators and advocates shouting "We Believe".  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

There are no two excellent days of leadership/teaching/coaching back to back. These peaks and valleys are gifts.  In fact, you wouldn’t even be able to recognize an excellent day if you didn’t have some crummy ones to compare against. So, what does this have to do with “grit?” This week we’ll be talking about: Training our brains to have grit and resilience as an educator Tactics to help you dust yourself off after a tough day (or week...or month…) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

Values, Values, Values!  It's something that is the fabric of who we are but we don't think about our values too much!  Our values change over time so putting a spotlight on our own values from time to time is a healthy exercise. Spend 20 minutes with Terrie identifying your values and understanding how you can ADD value to those around you! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

It's all about VISION this week.  Dig deep with Terrie Noland, PhD, CALP and understand how true visionaries imagine a future state and know how to rally a team to (1) Test, (2) Fail, (3) Learn, (4) Improve and (5) Re-enter.  Vision doesn't mean perfection.  It means understanding how to work toward lofty goals.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

Join Terrie Noland, PhD, CALP as she thinks about personal growth this week. Terrie shares a favorite quote about personal growth: "It's what you learn after you know it all that matters!" Learn more about Terrie's personal quest to grow and learn every day and how YOU can make sure you learn after you "know it all". --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message

Join Terrie Noland, PhD, CALP to explore proximity. Do you realize that you are the sum of the people that are closest to you?  Your thinking, your behaviors, and your knowledge will never get bigger than the people that are closest to you in a particular area. If you want to lead big, you need to make sure that you are placing yourself in the proximity of individuals that make your sum total grow and flourish! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/learning-ally/message