Lit Friends

What happens when a child struggles to read—and no one seems to have clear answers? In this episode, we explore the reality of Dyslexia through the honest and powerful perspective of a mother who refused to stay silent. Liz Hembling shares her family’s journey—from confusion and frustration to understanding and advocacy—revealing what it truly takes to support a child with a learning difference. This conversation goes beyond diagnosis. It uncovers the emotional toll on families, the challenges within the education system, and the critical importance of early intervention. Along the way, you’ll gain practical insights, real-life lessons, and a deeper awareness of how to recognize and respond to reading struggles. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about how children learn differently, this episode offers a meaningful look at resilience, support, and the power of speaking up.

What happens when a child struggles to read—and no one seems to have clear answers? In this episode, we explore the reality of Dyslexia through the honest and powerful perspective of a mother who refused to stay silent. Liz Hembling shares her family’s journey—from confusion and frustration to understanding and advocacy—revealing what it truly takes to support a child with a learning difference. This conversation goes beyond diagnosis. It uncovers the emotional toll on families, the challenges within the education system, and the critical importance of early intervention. Along the way, you’ll gain practical insights, real-life lessons, and a deeper awareness of how to recognize and respond to reading struggles. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about how children learn differently, this episode offers a meaningful look at resilience, support, and the power of speaking up.

What happens when a child struggles to read—and no one seems to have clear answers? In this episode, we explore the reality of Dyslexia through the honest and powerful perspective of a mother who refused to stay silent. Liz Hembling shares her family’s journey—from confusion and frustration to understanding and advocacy—revealing what it truly takes to support a child with a learning difference. This conversation goes beyond diagnosis. It uncovers the emotional toll on families, the challenges within the education system, and the critical importance of early intervention. Along the way, you’ll gain practical insights, real-life lessons, and a deeper awareness of how to recognize and respond to reading struggles. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about how children learn differently, this episode offers a meaningful look at resilience, support, and the power of speaking up.

What happens when a child struggles to read—and no one seems to have clear answers? In this episode, we explore the reality of Dyslexia through the honest and powerful perspective of a mother who refused to stay silent. Liz Hembling shares her family’s journey—from confusion and frustration to understanding and advocacy—revealing what it truly takes to support a child with a learning difference. This conversation goes beyond diagnosis. It uncovers the emotional toll on families, the challenges within the education system, and the critical importance of early intervention. Along the way, you’ll gain practical insights, real-life lessons, and a deeper awareness of how to recognize and respond to reading struggles. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about how children learn differently, this episode offers a meaningful look at resilience, support, and the power of speaking up.

What happens when a child struggles to read—and no one seems to have clear answers? In this episode, we explore the reality of Dyslexia through the honest and powerful perspective of a mother who refused to stay silent. Liz Hembling shares her family’s journey—from confusion and frustration to understanding and advocacy—revealing what it truly takes to support a child with a learning difference. This conversation goes beyond diagnosis. It uncovers the emotional toll on families, the challenges within the education system, and the critical importance of early intervention. Along the way, you’ll gain practical insights, real-life lessons, and a deeper awareness of how to recognize and respond to reading struggles. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about how children learn differently, this episode offers a meaningful look at resilience, support, and the power of speaking up.

What happens when a child struggles to read—and no one seems to have clear answers? In this episode, we explore the reality of Dyslexia through the honest and powerful perspective of a mother who refused to stay silent. Liz Hembling shares her family’s journey—from confusion and frustration to understanding and advocacy—revealing what it truly takes to support a child with a learning difference. This conversation goes beyond diagnosis. It uncovers the emotional toll on families, the challenges within the education system, and the critical importance of early intervention. Along the way, you’ll gain practical insights, real-life lessons, and a deeper awareness of how to recognize and respond to reading struggles. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about how children learn differently, this episode offers a meaningful look at resilience, support, and the power of speaking up.

What does it take to keep a healthcare system running during a global crisis?In this episode, we break down how Sioux City handled the chaos of COVID-19—and what they got right. From leadership decisions to rapid adaptation, this is a behind-the-scenes look at how resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a strategy.

What does it take to keep a healthcare system running during a global crisis?In this episode, we break down how Sioux City handled the chaos of COVID-19—and what they got right. From leadership decisions to rapid adaptation, this is a behind-the-scenes look at how resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a strategy.

What does it take to keep a healthcare system running during a global crisis?In this episode, we break down how Sioux City handled the chaos of COVID-19—and what they got right. From leadership decisions to rapid adaptation, this is a behind-the-scenes look at how resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a strategy.

What does it take to keep a healthcare system running during a global crisis?In this episode, we break down how Sioux City handled the chaos of COVID-19—and what they got right. From leadership decisions to rapid adaptation, this is a behind-the-scenes look at how resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a strategy.

What does it take to keep a healthcare system running during a global crisis?In this episode, we break down how Sioux City handled the chaos of COVID-19—and what they got right. From leadership decisions to rapid adaptation, this is a behind-the-scenes look at how resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a strategy.

In this episode, we explore a powerful shift in literacy instruction—putting text back at the center of the classroom. Joined by experts behind the Common Core ELA standards, the conversation challenges the idea of teaching isolated skills and instead highlights the importance of rich, meaningful texts in driving real learning. Discover why focusing on complex, grade-level content helps students build knowledge, strengthen comprehension, and engage more deeply with reading. The discussion also unpacks common misconceptions about standards, the limits of “skill-based” teaching, and how educators can better support all learners through thoughtful, text-centered instruction. If you’re ready to move beyond checklists and create more meaningful reading experiences, this episode offers insights that can transform the way literacy is taught.

In this episode, we explore a powerful shift in literacy instruction—putting text back at the center of the classroom. Joined by experts behind the Common Core ELA standards, the conversation challenges the idea of teaching isolated skills and instead highlights the importance of rich, meaningful texts in driving real learning. Discover why focusing on complex, grade-level content helps students build knowledge, strengthen comprehension, and engage more deeply with reading. The discussion also unpacks common misconceptions about standards, the limits of “skill-based” teaching, and how educators can better support all learners through thoughtful, text-centered instruction. If you’re ready to move beyond checklists and create more meaningful reading experiences, this episode offers insights that can transform the way literacy is taught.

In this episode, we explore a powerful shift in literacy instruction—putting text back at the center of the classroom. Joined by experts behind the Common Core ELA standards, the conversation challenges the idea of teaching isolated skills and instead highlights the importance of rich, meaningful texts in driving real learning. Discover why focusing on complex, grade-level content helps students build knowledge, strengthen comprehension, and engage more deeply with reading. The discussion also unpacks common misconceptions about standards, the limits of “skill-based” teaching, and how educators can better support all learners through thoughtful, text-centered instruction. If you’re ready to move beyond checklists and create more meaningful reading experiences, this episode offers insights that can transform the way literacy is taught.

In this episode, we explore a powerful shift in literacy instruction—putting text back at the center of the classroom. Joined by experts behind the Common Core ELA standards, the conversation challenges the idea of teaching isolated skills and instead highlights the importance of rich, meaningful texts in driving real learning. Discover why focusing on complex, grade-level content helps students build knowledge, strengthen comprehension, and engage more deeply with reading. The discussion also unpacks common misconceptions about standards, the limits of “skill-based” teaching, and how educators can better support all learners through thoughtful, text-centered instruction. If you’re ready to move beyond checklists and create more meaningful reading experiences, this episode offers insights that can transform the way literacy is taught.

In this episode, we explore a powerful shift in literacy instruction—putting text back at the center of the classroom. Joined by experts behind the Common Core ELA standards, the conversation challenges the idea of teaching isolated skills and instead highlights the importance of rich, meaningful texts in driving real learning. Discover why focusing on complex, grade-level content helps students build knowledge, strengthen comprehension, and engage more deeply with reading. The discussion also unpacks common misconceptions about standards, the limits of “skill-based” teaching, and how educators can better support all learners through thoughtful, text-centered instruction. If you’re ready to move beyond checklists and create more meaningful reading experiences, this episode offers insights that can transform the way literacy is taught.

In this episode, we explore a powerful shift in literacy instruction—putting text back at the center of the classroom. Joined by experts behind the Common Core ELA standards, the conversation challenges the idea of teaching isolated skills and instead highlights the importance of rich, meaningful texts in driving real learning. Discover why focusing on complex, grade-level content helps students build knowledge, strengthen comprehension, and engage more deeply with reading. The discussion also unpacks common misconceptions about standards, the limits of “skill-based” teaching, and how educators can better support all learners through thoughtful, text-centered instruction. If you’re ready to move beyond checklists and create more meaningful reading experiences, this episode offers insights that can transform the way literacy is taught.

A calm, practical guide to preparing for back-to-school with a focus on strong literacy routines, foundational skills, and a confident teacher mindset.

A calm, practical guide to preparing for back-to-school with a focus on strong literacy routines, foundational skills, and a confident teacher mindset.

A calm, practical guide to preparing for back-to-school with a focus on strong literacy routines, foundational skills, and a confident teacher mindset.

A calm, practical guide to preparing for back-to-school with a focus on strong literacy routines, foundational skills, and a confident teacher mindset.

Are reading tests measuring the right things? This episode uncovers why outdated assessments may be limiting student success—and how a curriculum-first approach can transform literacy learning.

Are reading tests measuring the right things? This episode uncovers why outdated assessments may be limiting student success—and how a curriculum-first approach can transform literacy learning.

Are reading tests measuring the right things? This episode uncovers why outdated assessments may be limiting student success—and how a curriculum-first approach can transform literacy learning.

Are reading tests measuring the right things? This episode uncovers why outdated assessments may be limiting student success—and how a curriculum-first approach can transform literacy learning.

Kristen Wynn, Jill Webb Hoda, and Jessica Crosby-Pitchamootoo join Melissa and Lori to explore the broader landscape of literacy in Mississippi. They discuss the decision to prioritize high-quality instructional materials (HQC) and walk through the process of making that vision a reality.The conversation highlights how Jackson Public Schools—the state’s largest urban district—selected and implemented Wit & Wisdom ELA, from recognizing the need for change to full adoption.Thanks for listening to Lit Friends!If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or colleague.

Kristen Wynn, Jill Webb Hoda, and Jessica Crosby-Pitchamootoo join Melissa and Lori to explore the broader landscape of literacy in Mississippi. They discuss the decision to prioritize high-quality instructional materials (HQC) and walk through the process of making that vision a reality.The conversation highlights how Jackson Public Schools—the state’s largest urban district—selected and implemented Wit & Wisdom ELA, from recognizing the need for change to full adoption.Thanks for listening to Lit Friends!If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or colleague.Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!

Kristen Wynn, Jill Webb Hoda, and Jessica Crosby-Pitchamootoo join Melissa and Lori to explore the broader landscape of literacy in Mississippi. They discuss the decision to prioritize high-quality instructional materials (HQC) and walk through the process of making that vision a reality.The conversation highlights how Jackson Public Schools—the state’s largest urban district—selected and implemented Wit & Wisdom ELA, from recognizing the need for change to full adoption.Thanks for listening to Lit Friends!If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or colleague.Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!

Kristen Wynn, Jill Webb Hoda, and Jessica Crosby-Pitchamootoo join Melissa and Lori to explore the broader landscape of literacy in Mississippi. They discuss the decision to prioritize high-quality instructional materials (HQC) and walk through the process of making that vision a reality.The conversation highlights how Jackson Public Schools—the state’s largest urban district—selected and implemented Wit & Wisdom ELA, from recognizing the need for change to full adoption.