Summary

In this episode, Jeff Pendleton interviews Dr. Niyoka McCoy, Chief Learning Officer of K12, discussing her journey from teacher to educational leader. They explore the role of K12 in online education, the challenges of literacy in a virtual environment, and innovative approaches to engage students. Niyoka shares insights on curriculum development, the importance of libraries, and the balance between screen time and physical activity. The conversation also delves into the integration of AI in education and the future of immersive learning experiences for students.

Key Moments

Introduction to K12 Online Schools and Dr. Niyoka McCoy's Journey

05:22

Understanding K12's Role in Online Education

10:15

Challenges and Advantages in Virtual Literacy Education

15:28

Innovative Approaches to Curriculum Development

20:22

The Impact of AI on Education

25:09

Future Trends in Education and Student Engagement

31:30

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

Educators will love this episode for its honest, forward-thinking conversation about what really works in online learning. Dr. Niyoka McCoy brings a practitioner’s perspective to the challenges of literacy in virtual environments, sharing practical insights on curriculum design, student engagement, and the evolving role of libraries and movement in a screen-based world. The discussion balances today’s realities with an inspiring look ahead—exploring AI, immersive learning, and how educators can thoughtfully innovate while keeping students’ needs at the center. This episode is both grounding and energizing for anyone shaping the future of K–12 education.

Connect with Dr. McCoy on LinkedIn at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/niyoka-mccoy/

Follow Us On:
-Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/

-Company LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation/posts/?feedView=all

-Website: https://mindplay.com/

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Summary:

In this episode of the Literacy Mindset, Dr. Sabrina Salmon, Senior Director of Exceptional Students at Tucson Unified School District, shares her journey into education and the importance of literacy in student success. She discusses the district's diverse population, the implementation of a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS), and the significance of early intervention programs. Dr. Salmon emphasizes the challenges faced by students with literacy difficulties and the role of technology in enhancing learning opportunities. The conversation also touches on the importance of collaboration among educational departments and the need for motivation in student engagement.

Key Moments:

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sabrina Salmon

01:29 Dr. Salmon's Journey to Education

06:25 Overview of Tucson Unified School District

07:35 The Importance of Literacy in Education

10:01 Collaboration in Curriculum Decisions

11:48 Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Framework

13:11 Intervention Strategies for Reading Skills

15:39 Early Intervention and Pre-K Curriculum

17:14 Literacy Challenges in IEPs

18:08 Motivating Students Through Sports and Activities

20:17 Challenges in Early Literacy and Reading Scores

22:00 Centralized vs. Decentralized Decision Making in Education

24:27 Embracing Technology in Education

27:56 Navigating Access and Equity in Technology

30:20 Feedback for Educational Technology Providers

32:47 Concerns and Excitement for the Future of Education

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

Educators will appreciate this episode for its honest, practical look at what it takes to support diverse learners in today’s classrooms. Dr. Sabrina Salmon offers clear, experience-driven insights into how MTSS, early intervention, and cross-department collaboration can transform literacy outcomes—especially for exceptional students. Her reflections on motivation, technology integration, and student engagement provide actionable ideas you can take back to your own district or campus. Whether you're a classroom teacher, coach, or district leader, you’ll walk away inspired and better equipped to help every learner thrive.

Connect with Dr. Salmon on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrina-salmon-phd-lmft-0b6ba51/

Follow Us On:
-Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/

-Company LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation/posts/?feedView=all

-Website: https://mindplay.com/

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Literacy Mindset and leave us a review!

Share this episode with educators, administrators, and advocates who are passionate about improving literacy and student success.

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Kathy Rollo and Misty Rieber discuss their personal journeys in education, the challenges and successes of literacy initiatives in Lubbock, Texas, and the evolving role of technology and AI in education. They emphasize the importance of community engagement, addressing socioeconomic challenges, and the need for effective phonics instruction to improve literacy outcomes for students. The conversation highlights the significance of adapting educational practices to meet the needs of diverse learners and the future of literacy in an increasingly digital world.

Key Moments

00:00 Introduction to Literacy Mindset Podcast

01:26 Journey to Leadership in Education

08:29 Diverse Paths to Educational Leadership

14:51 Current Landscape of Lubbock ISD

19:16 Addressing Literacy Challenges in Education

22:56 Building a Collaborative Curriculum

24:26 Implementing a Balanced Literacy Approach

26:17 Fostering a Culture of Literacy

28:33 Addressing Literacy Challenges in Upper Grades

32:29 Integrating Technology in Literacy Education

36:23 The Future of Literacy and AI

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

Educators will love this episode because it offers an authentic, inside look at how two seasoned leaders are tackling real literacy challenges with clarity, heart, and innovation. Dr. Kathy Rollo and Dr. Misty Rieber share actionable insights on strengthening phonics instruction, supporting diverse learners, and overcoming socioeconomic barriers that impact student success. Their honest reflections on community collaboration, technology integration, and the evolving influence of AI provide practical takeaways and inspiration for anyone striving to improve literacy outcomes. This conversation is both grounding and forward-thinking—perfect for educators seeking fresh ideas and renewed motivation.

Connect with Dr. Rollo on LinkedIn at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-rollo-ed-d-87908513/

Connect with Misty Rieber on LinkedIn at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/misty-rieber-3b62b2358/

Follow Us On:
-Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/

-Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducationCompany

-Website: https://mindplay.com/

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Literacy Mindset and leave us a review!

Share this episode with educators, administrators, and advocates who are passionate about improving literacy and student success.