On the Road to Literacy Success

🎙 Empowering Educators: A Conversation with Dr. Nathaniel Swain Season Two kicks off with a powerful and thought-provoking conversation between Dr. Staci Bain and returning guest Dr. Nathaniel Swain. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of literacy education, from supporting new teachers and principals to building strong Tier 1 systems that help every student thrive. Dr. Swain shares practical strategies for whole-class teaching, insights on reducing cognitive load, and reflections on balancing professional life with parenthood. He also introduces his new book, Harnessing the Science of Learning—a must-read for educators looking to simplify and strengthen their teaching practice. ✨ Grab Dr. Swain’s book here → https://www.nathanielswain.com/hsol-book 🎧 Whether you’re a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or school leader, this episode will inspire you to lean into what works and empower others along the way. ✅ Episode Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Season Two 02:10 – What’s new with Dr. Nathaniel Swain 07:16 – Advice for new teachers entering the field 10:19 – Practical guidance for new principals 13:32 – Whole-class teaching: A flexible, high-impact approach 22:05 – Supporting experienced teachers in evolving systems 25:15 – Balancing parenthood and professional life 28:31 – Highlights from Harnessing the Science of Learning (and how to get it) 36:00 – Closing reflections and what’s ahead this season ✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode • Why strong Tier 1 instruction is the foundation for success • Practical advice for new teachers and principals • How to share your expertise to strengthen your school ecosystem • The freedom that comes from structured literacy 🎙️ Favorite Sound Bites “It’s selfish not to share your expertise.” “Be a hands-on leader in your school.” “Structured literacy isn’t rigid—it’s freeing.” ✨ Subscribe for more inspiring conversations about literacy success!

🎙️ Leading with Intention: Principal Langerman on Tier 1 Transformation In this episode of On the Road to Literacy Success, we’re joined by Principal Kristen Langerman of McLaurin Elementary (Rankin County School District, MS), a recognized Mississippi Emerging Science of Reading School. Principal Langerman takes us inside her school’s journey toward literacy transformation by sharing what it truly means to lead intentionally. From demonstrating instruction to co-teaching and engaging in continuous, focused instructional conversations, she models the kind of leadership that brings Tier 1 to life. Principal Langerman also shares how her team implemented Educate’s 3-part Tier 1 system across their K–6 classrooms, creating common language and common practices that boosted clarity and collaboration. The results? In the 2023–2024 school year, every single 3rd grader at McLaurin passed the state’s literacy promotion assessment. This is an episode filled with heart, strategy, and inspiration—you won’t want to miss it. ✨ Highlights How instructional leadership shows up in classrooms—not just offices Using co-teaching and live modeling to support teacher growth Building a culture of focused instructional conversations Implementing Educate’s Tier 1 Framework© to create shared systems Celebrating 100% 3rd grade reading proficiency on the state test 🎧 Tune in and be inspired to lead literacy with intention. #GoodHumansEducate #DrStaciBain #EducateWithStaci #wecandothis

In this conversation, Dr. DJ Bolger shares his extensive journey in literacy research, emphasizing the importance of brain imaging and the science of reading movement. He discusses the need for explicit teaching, the role of cultural humility, and the significance of understanding the unique backgrounds of students. Bolger highlights the complexities of reading as a cognitive process and the importance of evidence-based practices in education.

Dr. Bolger discusses the importance of moving beyond "sticking with the script" and "The Simple View"--and MUCH more!

🎙 On the Road to Literacy Success by GoodHumansEducate Host: Dr. Staci Bain In this engaging episode, Dr. Leslie Laud shares insights from her extensive experience in writing instruction and its transformative impact on both students and teachers. Dr. Laud discusses her passion for teaching, the effectiveness of evidence-based writing strategies, and the significant gains observed in student performance. The conversation offers practical solutions for K-12 educators, emphasizing the need for professional development and the joy of seeing students thrive in their writing abilities. 📚 Key Takeaways: The joy of teaching comes from seeing students succeed. Writing instruction should start with oral modeling. Effective writing strategies can lead to significant student gains. Self-regulation is key to student independence in writing. Professional development is crucial for teacher growth. Evidence-based practices improve student outcomes. Community support is vital for implementing new strategies. Teachers can learn from each other through shared experiences. Writing instruction should evolve with grade levels. Celebrating student success is crucial for motivation. 👉 Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of On the Road to Literacy Success, dedicated to driving literacy growth! Also, visit us at GoodHumansEducate.com to transform your Tier 1 practices. #OnTheRoadToLiteracySuccess #DrLeslieLaud #WritingInstruction #EvidenceBasedPractices #GoodHumansEducate

In this episode of 'On the Road to Literacy Success', Dr. Staci Bain interviews Kareem Weaver, a civil rights activist and literacy advocate. They discuss the importance of evidence-based practices in education, the role of leadership in fostering a culture of literacy, and the need for transparency and accountability in schools. Kareem shares his personal journey in education, highlights unsung heroes in literacy, and emphasizes the significance of cultural context in teaching. The conversation also touches on the complex relationship between belonging and literacy, and the future of education focused on empowering students to read and learn effectively. You can check out the trailer for The Right To Read by clicking here.

In this conversation, Educate's Founder (Staci) interviews Angy Graham, the Executive Director of PK Curriculum and Instruction at Rankin County School District in Mississippi. They discuss how the district achieved significant improvements in literacy outcomes, with 89% of kindergartners reaching grade level according to iReady by the end of 2024. They also talk about the district's focus on Tier 1 instruction, the importance of collaboration and collective practices, and the impact of their efforts on student success. Angy Graham shares the district's journey, the results they have achieved, and their plans for the future. KEYWORDS: literacy success, Rankin County School District, Mississippi, kindergarten, iReady, tier one instruction, collaboration, collective practices, student success TAKEAWAYS: Rankin County School District in Mississippi achieved significant improvements in literacy outcomes, with 89% of kindergartners reaching grade level according to iReady by the end of 2024. The district's success can be attributed to their focus (by teachers and leaders) on Tier 1 instruction and the implementation of collective practices across all grade levels. Collaboration and communication between teachers, leaders, and administrators played a crucial role in the district's achievements. The district's efforts have had a positive impact on student success, with increasing percentages of students performing at or above grade level. Rankin County School District's story has gained recognition and they have been invited to share their experiences and strategies at various conferences and events. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:28 Implementation and Challenges 00:51 Expanding the Implementation 02:04 Building a Bench of Educate Facilitators 03:20 Empowering Teachers with Tier One Training 05:39 Repurposing Resources for Success 08:31 Data-Driven Results 09:59 Excitement of Seeing Success 10:12 Reflections on the Journey and Future Plans 10:54 Unifying the District and Meeting in the Middle 13:13 Expanding the Focus to Grades 9-12 15:40 Recognition and Humility 16:12 Sharing the Story and Future Engagements 22:51

In this episode of "On the Road to Literacy Success", Educate's Co-Founder interviews Angy Graham, an Executive Director for the Rankin County School District, Mississippi. They discuss the district's journey towards implementing Educate's K-8 Science of Reading in Tier 1 approach in EVERY classroom and EVERY building. This Mississippi district has shifted from a balanced literacy approach to a Science of Reading in Tier 1 approach. They have trained all K-8 teachers on Educate's Tier 1, 3-pronged approach. Executive Director Graham emphasizes the importance of providing an environment where all students can thrive and learn -- and that it all begins with effective, collective Tier 1 instruction. There is hope and a solution. Enjoy the episode!

Are you ready for the messy work of teaching and learning to make more sense? In this episode, Nate Joseph, a dynamic researcher and author, provides listeners with clear language on research theories and instructional practices to get us/keep us on the literacy road. With his background as a scholar, educator, and writer, Nate Joseph brings a wealth of knowledge that is both practical and inspiring. Feeling curious about RtI? Research theories? Classroom practices? Don’t miss this episode! If you really enjoy it, consider grabbing a copy of Nate’s latest book, The Scientific Principles of TEACHING: Bridging the Divide Between Educational Practice and Research. It’s sure to be an essential resource in your literacy toolkit. Enjoy the podcast, good humans! Your Tier 1 / MTSS pal, -Staci Staci Bain, Ed.D. GoodHumansEducate.com

Welcome back to another episode of Educate's "On the Road to Literacy Success"! We're thrilled to have you with us as we dive back into the heart of literacy instruction. In Part 2, we're continuing our engaging conversation with the insightful Dr. Nathaniel Swain. In this episode, we’ll explore the dynamics of whole group teaching, break down the literacy block, and discuss why it's essential to stay flexible and adaptable in your teaching approach. If you're interested in diving deeper into whole class teaching, be sure to check out Dr. Swain's website at nathanialswain.com, grab a copy of his new book, "Harnessing the Science of Learning", and don't forget to visit me, Staci, at GoodHumansEducate.com for your Tier 1 strategy, professional learning, resources, and more. So, get ready for some valuable insights—let's take a listen, good human! -staci Staci Bain, Ed.D. Educate, Co-Founder & President GoodHumansEducate.com

Whole class teaching, also known as whole group instruction, often gets dismissed as "rigid", "one-directional", "ineffective". If you find yourself frequently defending whole group instruction, this podcast will uplift your teaching and learning spirit. I n this episode, Dr. Nathaniel Swain provides countless engaging and effective ways to teach an entire class of students well. As a researcher, author, professor, practitioner, and dad, Dr. Swain brings a rich perspective to this podcast's conversation. If you find yourself inspired and intrigued, stay tuned for part two of our conversation! You can also preorder Dr. Swain's book entitled, "Harnessing the Science of Learning: Success Stories to Help Kickstart Your School Improvement". It's bound to be a GREAT addition to your teaching and learning life. Enjoy the podcast, good humans! Your Tier 1 / MTSS pal, -staci Staci Bain, Ed.D. GoodHumansEducate.com