Episode 88: It Takes a Board: The Role of Leadership in Community Literacy

In this episode of the Compass PD Podcast, Dr. Carrie Hepburn is joined by Bob Whittenberg, Board of Education President for Spencer Community Schools, to explore a critical—and often overlooked—driver of lasting literacy success: the role of the school board.Building on the momentum of Spencer Reads, this conversation moves beyond the classroom to examine how literacy becomes a community-wide commitment, not just a school initiative.Together, they discuss: Why literacy must be treated as mission-critical work How boards can move from oversight to active learning and leadership What it means to protect time, professional learning, and instructional focus How long-term commitment—not short-term programs—changes outcomes for students and communities This episode offers a powerful reminder: When boards, schools, and communities align around literacy, the impact extends far beyond test scores—it shapes opportunity, independence, and the future of an entire community.