Season 2, Ep. 3 - Superintendent Mires on Tier 1 Systems for Strong Public Schools
In this conversation, Tabatha Mires, the superintendent of Manson School District, shares her journey into education, her leadership philosophy, and the importance of public schools in fostering democracy. She discusses the district's success in improving literacy through direct instruction and the significance of community engagement in education. Mires emphasizes the need for collective efficacy among educators and offers advice for other superintendents on enhancing literacy at a tier one level.
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Season 2, Ep. 2 - Dr. Shanahan Spills the TEA on TEXT
In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Timothy Shanahan discusses his book 'Leveled Reading, Leveled Lives' and the implications of leveled reading practices on student growth. He emphasizes the importance of teaching students with grade-level texts and the need for educators to adapt their instructional strategies to ensure all students have access to complex texts. The discussion covers the balance between challenge and support in reading instruction, the efficiency of whole class teaching versus small group instruction, and the necessity of grounding educational practices in research and evidence. Dr. Shanahan advocates for a shift in teaching practices to create a more equitable and effective literacy education system. Grab Dr. Shanahan’s new book, Leveled Reading, Leveled Lives, using code HCPR25 for 20% off at checkout. Adolescent Literacy book noted in the podcast link is here: https://www.amazon.com/Adolescent-Literacy-Academic-Disciplines-Principles/dp/1462502806
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Season 2, Ep. 1 - Empowering Educators: A Conversation with Dr. Nathaniel Swain
🎙 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!
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Season 1, Ep. 10 - Leading Intentionally w/Principal Kristen Langerman
Season 1, Ep. 8 - Part 1: Beyond the Norm in the Science of Reading w/Dr. DJ Bolger
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.
"On the Road to Literacy Success" is here to be a HELPFUL PART of your daily teaching, learning, and leadership life. If you're striving to get the MOST amount of kiddos as possible reading, spelling, writing, listening, speaking, and critically thinking -- this is the place for you. We take the MESSINESS of teaching, learning, and leading and ask people who have figured things out to share their minds with us.
So join us and come ON THE ROAD as we drive for literacy and justice for all 8 billion humans on this planet.
-staci
New Zealand