Blended Learning and Reading Achievement: Helping Students Thrive with Erin Phillips

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when traditional teaching isn't enough to help struggling readers succeed? In this special first episode, Dr. Lisa Hassler is joined by teacher and longtime friend Erin Phillips to discuss how blending online learning strategies with classroom instruction can significantly boost reading achievement.Drawing from her own classroom experience, Erin shares how she adapted virtual learning tools to meet the diverse needs of her third-grade students — many of whom were struggling to meet critical reading benchmarks. Dr. Hassler connects their conversation to her own research study, An Evaluation of Virtual School's Preparation of Second Grade Students for Third Grade Reading Proficiency, highlighting how online platforms can serve as powerful tools for differentiated instruction.🔎 Topics covered:The urgent third-grade reading crisis and its long-term effectsUsing online learning strategies to close reading achievement gapsThe emotional and social toll of reading struggles on young learnersPractical blended learning approaches for primary classroomsThis episode launched The Brighter Side of Education by reminding us that taking the first step — with heart, with friendship, and with research — can change everything.💡 This episode is CPD accredited! Educators can now earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) minutes by listening. To claim your certificate:Listen to the full episodeVisit https://thecpd.group/podcastEnter code 800119 to check in and download your certificateContinue your professional growth—one episode at a time.Great News! The Brighter Side of Education is now CPD Accredited! Sponsored by Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., DMDTrusted dental care for healthy smiles and stronger communities—building brighter futures daily. Head to the show notes to find if this episode is CPD eligible and details on how to claim your CPD certification!Sponsored by Dr. Gregg Hassler Jr., DMDTrusted dental care for healthy smiles and stronger communities—building brighter futures daily.Support the showIf you have a story about what's working in your schools that you'd like to share, email me at [email protected] or visit www.drlisahassler.com. Subscribe, tell a friend, and consider becoming a supporter by clicking the link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2048018/support. The music in this podcast was written and performed by Brandon Picciolini of the Lonesome Family Band. Visit and follow him on Instagram.