Literacy Lunch Break

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Diane King-Shaw to explore what it looks like to return to the classroom after dysregulation and how to support both students and teachers in that process. From re-establishing a sense of safety to navigating the emotions that linger after challenging moments, this conversation highlights the importance of intentional repair.Dr. King-Shaw shares practical ways to support re-entry, including regulating yourself first, creating space for students to process what happened, and restoring the classroom environment so it feels safe and predictable again. We also explore how anxiety and dysregulation can show up more quietly, as well as how behaviors can spread within a classroom and what educators can do to support the whole group. Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode, we continue the conversation with Kai-leé Berke, shifting from understanding dysregulation to what it looks like in real classroom moments and how educators can respond. From disengagement and avoidance to more outward behaviors, we explore the many ways dysregulation can show up, especially during challenging tasks like literacy instruction.Kai-leé shares practical strategies including identifying your own “button pusher” behaviors, using simple regulation practices in the moment, and recognizing when students are avoiding participation as a way to cope. We also dive into prevention through classroom routines, confidence-building language, and predictable structures that help students feel safe and ready to learn. Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode, we sit down with Kai-leé Berke to unpack what dysregulation can look like in the classroom and what educators can do in the moment. While understanding the “why” can be helpful over time, this conversation emphasizes that the first step is always to de-escalate and support students in returning to a regulated state.Kai-leé walks through practical strategies, including staying regulated as the adult, ensuring safety, using reflective listening, and helping students build awareness and replacement behaviors. Together, these approaches highlight the power of relationships and show how connection, not correction, creates the conditions for meaningful learning.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

The most powerful learning moments in every classroom don’t start with instructional content–they start with connection. For children, learning does not take place in isolation—it happens in the context of relationships. This session explores how secure relationships and stable environments create the conditions students need to engage, persist, and learn, especially during literacy instruction. Drawing on research that shows emotional regulation is shared between teachers and students, educators examine how predictability, trust, and adult regulation can help to shape classroom climate. Through reflection and practical strategies, participants learn how intentional routines, relational practices, and environmental stability support both student learning and teacher capacity.Learn more about Heggerty!Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.Follow us on Social MediaInstagramFacebookTwitterLinkedInLearn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

The webinar recording can be accessed here.Every teacher has seen it—a student who can’t focus, can’t follow, or can’t find calm enough to learn—no matter how strong the instruction. This edWeb podcast introduces the concept of learning readiness through regulation—how emotional, cognitive, and relational factors shape students’ capacity to access and retain foundational literacy skills.We explore how regulation is the bridge between ability and achievement, and how teachers can weave readiness practices into daily instruction without adding more to their plates. By connecting the Science of Reading with the Science of Learning, educators discover practical ways to create calm, connected, and learning-ready classrooms where every child can thrive.Join Kai-leé Berke, educator and early learning leader, Dr. Diane Davison King-Shaw, Clinical Director of the Lourie Center School and expert in trauma-informed education, and Heather Minter, Resilient Learning and Well-Being Consultant, who translate these ideas into practical classroom strategies. Moderated by Marjorie Bottari, this conversation helps educators understand how readiness and regulation unlock every student’s potential—transforming not just how we teach, but how students experience learning.Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with a nationally recognized educator and literacy expert to explore the true foundations of reading success. They discuss the critical role of oral language, the science behind reading development, and how educators can take actionable steps to support every child’s learning journey. From early intervention to innovative leadership practices, this conversation highlights the impact of curiosity, collaboration, and knowledge in shaping literacy outcomes. Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode of Literacy Lunch Break, we are joined by Alvin Irby, educator, social entrepreneur, and founder of Barbershop Books, for a powerful conversation on advancing literacy equity. Drawing from his experience as a teacher and national thought leader, Alvin shares how his journey shaped a deep commitment to making reading accessible and joyful for all children. We explore the systemic barriers that impact underserved communities, the importance of cultural relevance in the classroom, and practical strategies educators can use to create more inclusive, affirming literacy experiences. Tune in for an inspiring and thought-provoking dialogue that challenges the status quo and uplifts the voices of young readers everywhere.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari talks with Dr. Katie Pace Miles, known for her research on high-frequency words and orthographic mapping, about her powerful work with the CUNY Reading Corps. Katie shares how the program, born during COVID, now provides high-impact tutoring to thousands of New York City students while transforming preservice teacher training. Together, they discuss why one-on-one structured literacy support is essential, how tutoring can scale through innovative university partnerships, and the vital role of human connection in helping striving readers thrive. Katie also highlights how educators and universities can access free, research-based resources through the Reading Institute.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with Dr. Lori Hernandez, Director of Teaching and Learning in Newport Mesa School District. Dr. Hernandez shares how her team has created a district-wide culture of literacy that supports every learner, from newcomers and English learners to students in Title I and non-Title I schools. She discusses the district’s strategic rollout of phonemic awareness, phonics, and high-quality instruction, the systems of support built for teachers and administrators, and the powerful mindset shift that all kids can—and will—learn to read. This conversation is packed with insights for leaders and educators committed to equity and excellence in literacy instruction.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with Dr. Molly Ness—literacy advocate, researcher, and author—to unpack what it really takes to move from knowing the science of reading to putting it into practice. Dr. Ness shares her journey from classroom teacher to national thought leader and offers insight into why literacy reform requires whole-system change, not just new materials. They dive into the importance of language comprehension, intentional read alouds, and building student identity and joy in reading. Listeners will walk away with practical ideas for supporting literacy that go beyond test scores and into everyday classroom life. Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with Dr. Almitra Berry, a nationally recognized educator and author who has spent over 30 years advocating for all learners. Dr. Berry shares her personal journey and the experiences that fueled her passion for transforming educational outcomes. Together, they discuss , the importance of self-reflection for educators, and practical steps toward improving learning outcomes for all learners. Listeners will leave inspired to honor the whole child while embracing the science—and art—of teaching.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

 In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with Kai-leé Berke, CEO of Heggerty and a nationally recognized early childhood education expert. With decades of experience as a teacher, administrator, and author of widely used classroom solutions, Kai-leé shares her insights on addressing the complex challenges of reading development. Together, they explore why solving reading problems requires examining multiple lenses—moving beyond surface-level assumptions like “parents don’t read to their kids”—and the importance of asking, What can we do next? They discuss examples of districts making measurable gains, such as Louisiana, and the role programs like Heggerty play in supporting growth. Listeners will gain perspective on using assessment data to guide instruction, understanding factors outside educators’ control, and taking actionable steps to support every child’s reading success. Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode, Shelia Cooper, an ELA coordinator, discusses her work supporting teachers and students in achieving literacy success. Shelia highlights the importance of using research-based strategies to foster growth, resilience, and inclusivity in literacy instruction. Learn how Shelia is empowering educators to implement simple, effective approaches in their classrooms, and how she champions a positive learning environment that helps students reach their full potential.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode, Lisa Elaine Peters, a kindergarten teacher, shares her insights into building literacy skills in young learners. Lisa discusses how she integrates engaging and research-backed methods into her daily teaching, fostering both a love of learning and a growth mindset in her students. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Lisa’s approach to literacy is helping her students thrive, while providing inspiration to educators everywhere.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Join Kathie Saia and Caroline Ventresca from New York as they discuss their approach to elevating early literacy through explicit writing instruction. Kathie and her team share their experiences using researched literacy practices to create an inclusive, engaging environment where every child feels empowered to learn and grow. Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode, Chelsea Mytko, a kindergarten teacher in Canada, shares how she’s laying the foundation for early literacy success. Hear how Chelsea uses engaging, research-backed strategies to foster resilience and growth in her students, while creating a joyful and inclusive learning environment. Tune in for practical tips and inspiring stories about the little wins that shape her students' literacy journeys.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Join us as we speak with Sophia Pruett, a 2nd-grade teacher in California, about how she’s creating lasting literacy success in her classroom using systematic literacy instruction. Sophia shares how simple, engaging instruction combined with research-backed best practices is driving student growth, resilience, and a love for reading. Get inspired by her stories of progress, the little wins that keep her students motivated, and how she makes literacy both fun and impactful for her young learners.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode of Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari chats with renowned writing expert Steve Graham about actionable strategies for improving writing instruction in elementary classrooms. Steve shares research-backed tips that teachers can apply tomorrow. Learn how to connect reading and writing, support diverse learners, and enhance essential writing skills like handwriting and sentence construction. Don’t miss these insights for elevating writing instruction in your classroom!Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Explore the interconnectedness of reading and writing with Joan Sedita, a leading researcher in literacy education. This episode provides insights into how these two critical skills reinforce each other and offers practical tips for seamless integration in your teaching practice.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Series 5, Episode 3: In this episode, Dr. Julie Behmer shares practical strategies for bringing research-backed approaches to writing instruction into your classroom. Discover how to build your confidence, enhance your teaching practices, and make writing a rewarding experience for both you and your students.This podcast series focuses on writing instruction in structured literacy classrooms, providing expert insights and practical strategies. From integrating writing with reading to district-wide improvements and meaningful assessment, each episode empowers educators with tools to strengthen their teaching practices and foster a supportive learning environment.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Series 5, Episode 2: Writing instruction can be intimidating for many educators. Janine from Heggerty addresses common fears and challenges teachers face when teaching writing. Tune in for practical advice and encouragement to help teachers overcome these hurdles and build their confidence.This podcast series focuses on writing instruction in structured literacy classrooms, providing expert insights and practical strategies. From integrating writing with reading to district-wide improvements and meaningful assessment, each episode empowers educators with tools to strengthen their teaching practices and foster a supportive learning environment.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Series 5, Episode 1: Literacy Coordinator Sandra Chen shares her experience in leading district-wide changes in writing instruction. From curriculum evaluation to professional development, learn where to start and how to create lasting change in your district.This podcast series focuses on writing instruction in structured literacy classrooms, providing expert insights and practical strategies. From integrating writing with reading to district-wide improvements and meaningful assessment, each episode empowers educators with tools to strengthen their teaching practices and foster a supportive learning environment.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Series 4, Episode 6: Tune in to Literacy Lunch Break as host Marjorie Bottari engages in a dynamic conversation with Dr. Esmeralda Carini, a passionate K-12 literacy leader. Esmeralda shares strategies for ensuring educators have access to targeted professional learning opportunities, specifically focusing on enhancing content knowledge to drive student achievement. From her experiences in Hawaii, Esmeralda shares insights on fostering teacher growth and empowering educators to make impactful instructional decisions.Discover the essentials of elementary literacy instruction and leadership in our podcast series. Join leading educators and administrators as they share innovative strategies and actionable insights to empower teachers and drive student success in literacy.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Series 4, Episode 5: Join us for an insightful episode of Literacy Lunch Break as we sit down with Dr. Gyimah Whitaker, Superintendent at City Schools of Decatur, and Jennifer Burton, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning. Discover their innovative approaches to literacy leadership and learn how they are transforming literacy education to foster student success and engagement in their district.Discover the essentials of elementary literacy instruction and leadership in our podcast series. Join leading educators and administrators as they share innovative strategies and actionable insights to empower teachers and drive student success in literacy.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Series 4, Episode 4: Join us in this enlightening episode as we sit down with Christine Quesada, the Assistant Director of Literacy and Humanities at the New Mexico Public Education Department. Christine shares her expertise on leading literacy instruction from a statewide perspective, discussing key initiatives, effective leadership strategies, and the vital support systems in place for educators. Discover how New Mexico is tackling challenges and measuring success to ensure every elementary student has the opportunity to excel in literacy. Whether you're an educator, school leader, or policy maker, this conversation provides valuable insights into driving meaningful and sustainable literacy change from the top down.Discover the essentials of elementary literacy instruction and leadership in our podcast series. Join leading educators and administrators as they share innovative strategies and actionable insights to empower teachers and drive student success in literacy.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Series 4, Episode 3: Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with Carrie Willer, the Director of Elementary Education (5K-6) at Appleton School District, the sixth largest district in Wisconsin. Carrie shares her expertise on how effective school leadership can drive literacy instruction, fostering a love for reading and learning in young students. We discuss the strategies Appleton uses to support literacy development, the role of school leaders in creating a culture of reading, and practical tips for educators and administrators looking to enhance literacy programs in their schools. Don’t miss this engaging conversation on empowering young minds through strong leadership and innovative literacy instruction.Discover the essentials of elementary literacy instruction and leadership in our podcast series. Join leading educators and administrators as they share innovative strategies and actionable insights to empower teachers and drive student success in literacy.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Series 4, Episode 2: Join us for a conversation about literacy instruction with Shanna Beber, Executive Director of Literacy at the Louisiana Department of Education. Shanna shares her journey and commitment to education, along with Louisiana's initiatives to enhance literacy instruction. Explore how the department supports educators through innovative programs and professional development opportunities.Discover the essentials of elementary literacy instruction and leadership in our podcast series. Join leading educators and administrators as they share innovative strategies and actionable insights to empower teachers and drive student success in literacy.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Series 4, Episode 1: Join us for a dynamic Literacy Lunch Break episode with Dr. Ernesto Ortiz, Jr., as we dive into the transformative power of literacy leadership. Dr. Ortiz shares his expertise on district-wide literacy initiatives, the role of leadership in driving literacy change in elementary schools, and strategies for supporting educators. Discover how educational leaders are addressing challenges and measuring the impact of their literacy programs to ensure every student thrives.Discover the essentials of elementary literacy instruction and leadership in our podcast series. Join leading educators and administrators as they share innovative strategies and actionable insights to empower teachers and drive student success in literacy.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Join us for an engaging episode of our podcast, where Stefanie Tenenbaum, an experienced classroom teacher, shares insights into small group literacy instruction and student engagement. Stefanie walks us through the logistics of a typical day of small group instruction, discussing decision-making processes, fluid group dynamics, and data-driven adjustments. As a current teacher, she offers practical advice for educators transitioning from guided reading to small group instruction, addressing common challenges and emphasizing the balance between the science and art of teaching. Tune in for valuable tips and strategies to enhance your literacy instruction practices in a classroom setting.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

One shift as we rethink small group instruction is the amount of time students spend in a group. Previously, we would often "re-group" students according to a specific timeframe. Perhaps every 4-6 weeks. We realize now that true differentiation requires groups to be fluid. One key component to fluidity is considering how long skills take to learn and how complex they are. Katherine Doughtery Stahl uncovers the Constrained Skills Theory as an impactful resource to use when considering small group instruction. We are so excited to have Katherine join us today to share her insight on this theory and how it can inform our instruction. Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Join our latest episode featuring Shawn Toy, an Orton–Gillingham certified K-3 Reading Intervention Teacher, who brings a wealth of insights and knowledge to the table. Explore the world of data-driven instruction and gather strategies for small-group literacy planning. Follow Shawn on Instagram: @learningalatteinfirstLearn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode, we continue to explore life beyond guided reading. Join us as Jamey Peavler, instructor in the Reading Science program at Mount St. Joseph University, shares her insights on how to maximize small group, targeted instruction for foundational skills.  Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Join us for Series 3 of Literacy Lunch Break, where we dive into the journey of replacing guided reading with powerful small-group instruction. In Series 2, we explored shifting literacy practices and advocating for a structured literacy approach. As educators reflect and transition, the question arises: "So, what happens to guided reading?" Discover the answers in our upcoming discussions on the evolution of powerful small-group literacy instruction.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this enlightening podcast episode, we dive into the world of structured literacy and its profound impact on English language learners and bilingual students. Join us as we engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Lucia Rocha-Nestler, an expert in the field of biliteracy education. Explore the transformative power of the science of reading and discover how it fosters equity and empowers students in bilingual classrooms, ensuring a brighter future for all.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Our guest for this episode is Lindsay Kemeny, a dedicated teacher, parent, and author who understands the power of structured literacy firsthand. Lindsay shares stories from the classroom, discussing the challenges and successes of implementing structured literacy techniques. Join us as we uncover practical strategies for teachers and gain insight into how classroom experiences can drive meaningful change.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Equity within Literacy Instruction: In this episode, we engage with Naomi O'Brien, a prominent education influencer and literacy advocate. We discuss how educators can use their online presence and influence to champion the cause of structured literacy. From social media to community engagement, learn how Naomi is mobilizing a network of educators to raise awareness and drive change in literacy instruction.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this episode of Literary Lunch Break, we sit down with Brent Conway, an instructional leader with a passion for effective literacy instruction. We dive into the crucial role assistant superintendents play in shaping curriculum decisions, resource allocation, and policy changes. Join us as we explore Brent Conway's insights on advocating for structured literacy to ensure strong foundations for students' literacy skills. Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In Episode 7 of the Literacy Lunch Break, we continue our conversation with Amanda Hager, a reading interventionist who reveals her effective approach to using district materials in small group instruction to support reading intervention. Amanda shares her insights on how to leverage benchmarking assessments to identify students' needs, tailor instruction accordingly, and integrate phonemic awareness into reading intervention. She emphasizes the importance of teaching the "whys" of the English language to engage students and make reading practice meaningful. Join us as we explore the strategies and tools that Amanda has found success with in her reading intervention journey. Subscribe now for more bite-sized insights into literacy topics. Happy learning!Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Join us for Episode 6 of Literacy Lunch Break as we have an insightful conversation with Amanda Hager, an Orton-Gillingham certified Reading Interventionist. Amanda shares her journey from being a classroom teacher to a literacy coach and ultimately becoming a reading interventionist. She discusses the importance of phonemic awareness in reading instruction and the need to adapt teaching methods to meet the unique needs of each student. Amanda emphasizes the significance of continuous learning and research-backed approaches in improving student literacy outcomes. Tune in to discover valuable insights for enhancing reading proficiency through decodable texts and effective teaching strategies. Amanda is an experienced teacher, instructional coach, and literacy interventionist. She has bachelor's degrees from Western Illinois University and Aurora University and a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Reading from Grand Canyon University. She is also a certified level 1 dyslexia practitioner. She works as a reading interventionist in a K-5 building, delivering tier 2 and 3 literacy interventions. She is passionate about early literacy and believes that every student, no matter what deserves the best possible literacy instruction.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Join us in Episode 5 as we delve into the diverse range of decodable texts and explore how they can be effectively matched to the appropriate stage or phase of reading. Gain valuable insights into the varying levels of decodability and learn strategies for selecting decodable texts that align with learners' needs.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this exciting episode, we continue our discussion with decodable book author Cheryl Allison. Cheryl shares her expertise, providing valuable insights on what specific traits to look for when selecting decodable texts. Gain a clearer understanding of the key characteristics that contribute to the success of decodable texts in supporting reading development.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Join us as we explore the essential elements of "quality" decodable texts. Discover a comprehensive checklist and valuable insights to guide your selection of decodable texts. Unlock the secrets to finding decodable texts that effectively support early literacy instruction and empower learners on their reading journey.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

In this podcast episode, host Marjorie Bottari welcomes Cheryl Allison, a decodable book author, to discuss the importance of using decodable texts when teaching foundational reading skills to students. Cheryl shares her personal experiences with delayed reading and her journey to becoming an author of decodable texts. They discuss the significance of making decodable texts engaging and why decoding skills remain crucial for students through their elementary years. Cheryl also emphasizes the negative impact of guessing and the importance of maintaining a balance between decoding and comprehension in reading instruction. Stay tuned for more episodes on literacy topics in bite-sized formats.Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Join our host, Marjorie Bottari, on this episode of Literacy Lunch Break as we dive into the world of decodable texts and leveled readers. As you tune in, Marjorie will guide you through the definitions of decodable texts and leveled readers, providing an in-depth understanding of each. Marjorie also shares insight into the unique roles decodable texts and leveled readers play within the context of literacy instruction. Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here! 

Welcome to the Literacy Lunch Break, a Heggerty podcast that brings you quick and insightful episodes on literacy topics, designed to be easily consumed during your lunch break. Join our host, Marjorie Bottari, as she guides you through the journey of enhancing literacy instruction in a snack-sized format. Learn more about Heggerty! Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum. Follow us on Social MediaInstagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here!