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/

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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/

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Summary:

In this episode of The Literacy Mindset, Dr. Stephanie Howard, the superintendent of Midland ISD, shares her extensive experience in education and her strategic approach to improving literacy and overall student performance in the district. She discusses the importance of curriculum changes, professional development for teachers, and the integration of technology in the classroom. Dr. Howard emphasizes the need for consistency in educational practices and the positive impact of community involvement in shaping the district's strategic plan. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by social media on writing skills and the future direction of education in Midland ISD.

Key Moments:

0:00

Introduction to Dr. Stephanie Howard

03:33

Midland ISD Overview and Structure

06:54

Strategic Planning and Curriculum Implementation

12:12

Focus on Phonics and Early Literacy

15:39

Technology in Education and Decision-Making

17:34

Social Media’s Impact on Writing

20:36

Future of Education in Midland ISD

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

Educators will love this episode because Dr. Stephanie Howard offers an authentic and inspiring look into how Midland ISD is transforming literacy through intentional leadership and strategic planning. Her insights connect the dots between curriculum, technology, and teacher development—showing how a unified approach can elevate student success. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or advocate for change, this conversation offers practical ideas and powerful takeaways for improving literacy outcomes and building a stronger educational community.

Connect with Dr. Stephanie Howard on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-howard-ed-d-42250b78/

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

Summary:

In this conversation, Eric Satterly, the Chief Information Officer at Jefferson County Public Schools, shares his journey from the banking sector to education technology. He discusses the challenges and opportunities in K-12 education, particularly in integrating technology into literacy instruction. Eric emphasizes the importance of collaboration, data governance, and the role of AI in personalizing learning experiences for students. He also addresses the complexities of decision-making in a large school district and the need for effective teacher training in new technologies. The conversation concludes with Eric expressing both concerns and excitement about the future of education technology, particularly the potential of AI to enhance learning outcomes.

Key Moments

00:00

From Engineering to Education: Eric's Journey

06:09

The Role of a CIO in K-12 Education

12:16

Navigating Technology and Instruction Post-COVID

24:02

Balancing Core Curriculum with Personalized Learning

34:50

Future Challenges and Opportunities in Education Technology

Why You’ll Love this Episode

Educators will love this episode because it pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to bring meaningful technology into classrooms—from someone who has successfully led that work in one of the largest districts in the country. Eric Satterly shares practical insights on collaboration, data use, and teacher support, while offering a realistic and hopeful look at how AI can personalize learning and enhance student outcomes. This conversation bridges big-picture strategy with classroom-level impact, making it valuable for teachers, leaders, and anyone passionate about improving learning through smart, intentional use of technology.

Connect with Eric Satterly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericsatterly/

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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In this episode of The Literacy Mindset Podcast, Jeff Pendleton sits down with James P. Franz, principal of Bishop Kelley Catholic High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma. With more than 40 years in education, including decades as an English teacher, Franz shares how staying in the classroom even while leading as principal, keeps him connected to students and teachers alike. He reflects on his journey from teaching in Samoa to leading Catholic schools in Texas and Oklahoma, and explains how his dual role as teacher and administrator strengthens his credibility and ability to support excellent instruction.

The conversation dives into his three-step approach to literacy at any level: helping students gain access to texts through observations and connections, establishing context, and then guiding analysis. Franz also discusses how today’s students navigate a world dominated by short-form communication, the need to scaffold longer texts into manageable chunks, and the challenges and opportunities posed by digital learning and social media. Looking ahead, he shares why cultivating more peer-to-peer interaction, critical thinking, and authentic human connection will be essential for schools to thrive in the digital age.

Key Moments

05:46 Expanding Literacy Beyond Basics

06:48 Enhancing Literacy with Complex Texts

10:47 Understanding Texts: Context and Purpose

13:16 Connecting Teens to Complex Texts

17:23 Analytical Thinking in Everyday Contexts

20:50 Digital Interaction Limits in Education

23:00 "Embrace Intentional Futures"

Why You’ll Love This Episode

If you’ve ever wondered what literacy leadership looks like in a private high school setting or how a seasoned principal keeps teaching fresh after four decades—this conversation delivers both wisdom and practical strategies. Franz’s thoughtful perspective blends tradition with adaptation, offering insights on motivating students, supporting teachers, and rethinking education in a rapidly changing world. You’ll leave inspired by his belief that literacy is a lifelong journey and reminded of the power of connection in both learning and leadership.

Connect with James P. Franz:

• 
  Website: https://www.bishopkelley.org/

Follow Us On:

• 
  Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation
• Company Website: https://mindplay.com/
  
  

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In this episode of The Literacy Mindset Podcast, Jeff Pendleton talks with Catina Taylor, founder and CEO of Dreams KC, a nonprofit focused on empowering parents to become active partners in their children’s literacy journey. A former law student turned educator and advocate, Catina shares her powerful story of returning to Kansas City classrooms and realizing the urgent need to address literacy gaps. She explains how her organization equips families with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to support reading at home, challenging myths like “reading to your child will teach them to read” and addressing barriers such as time, resources, and adult literacy struggles.

Catina also highlights how she makes literacy engaging for families—using decodable texts, gamified activities, rap, and spoken word to build phonological awareness and confidence. She emphasizes the importance of culturally responsive materials, safe spaces for parents to learn, and fostering true partnerships between schools and families. From her belief that “literacy is liberation” to her call for educators and communities to get comfortable being uncomfortable, Catina offers both inspiration and practical strategies for breaking generational cycles and helping every child become a confident, competent reader.

Key Moments

06:08 Law Grad Turned Literacy Advocate

09:20 "Adapting Education to Parents' Needs"

13:12 Modernizing Phonological Learning 2025

15:58 Making Learning Fun & Motivating

18:26 Creating Engaging Decodable Books

21:37 Addressing Adolescent Literacy Challenges

24:47 Welcoming Educational Environments for Parents

27:24 Addressing Parents' Social-Emotional Biases

31:56 Success Formula: Will Over Resources

Why You’ll Love This Episode

If you believe that parents are key partners in literacy, this episode will inspire and energize you. Catina Taylor combines personal experience, deep expertise, and community-driven innovation to show how families can break generational cycles and build confident, competent readers. You’ll leave with practical strategies for engaging parents, fresh ideas for making literacy fun, and a renewed conviction that every child—and every adult—can become a stronger reader when given the right support.

Connect with Catina Taylor:

• 
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catina-k-taylor

Follow Us On:

• 
  Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation
• Company Website: https://mindplay.com/
  
  

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In this episode of The Literacy Mindset Podcast, Jeff Pendleton sits down with Joanna Hall, principal of Bennett Elementary School in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. A lifelong community member and former special educator, Joanna shares how her school serves third through fifth graders with a mix of structured literacy, targeted small-group instruction, and a community-centered approach. She explains how her teachers use both core 90-minute literacy blocks and “WIN” (What I Need) time to give students personalized support, while helping students track their own progress to build ownership of learning. Joanna also opens up about professional development in a rural setting, the challenges of bringing the Science of Reading to an isolated community, and how her dedicated staff embrace new strategies with enthusiasm.

The conversation also highlights the role of community engagement and creativity in building a culture of literacy. From literacy nights and library programs to her now-famous “principal challenges” (involving everything from kissing pigs to eating worms), Joanna finds ways to make reading exciting and visible for students and families alike. She discusses balancing technology and traditional approaches, the impact of Oklahoma’s cell phone ban, and why she is reintroducing novel units to help students grapple with figurative language and complex storytelling. Looking ahead, Joanna shares her excitement about how technology can open up the world for her students, even in a small, rural corner of Oklahoma.

Key Moments

05:08 Student Self-Tracking with Colors

07:56 Professional Development Across Grade Levels

10:22 Community Engagement through School Events

14:31 Engaging Novel Study Initiative

18:54 Global Learning Opportunities for Kids

20:09 Overcoming Phonological Barriers

Why You’ll Love This Episode

This episode captures both the challenges and the joys of leading literacy in a small-town school. Joanna Hall’s blend of humor, practicality, and deep care for her students shows how creative leadership and community support can make literacy come alive. Whether you’re an educator looking for strategies, an administrator thinking about culture, or simply someone who loves stories of rural innovation, you’ll walk away inspired—and maybe a little amused by the lengths one principal will go to celebrate student success.

Connect with Joanna Hall:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-hall-675a1bb8
• Website: https://www.bbisd.org/o/bes

Follow Us On:

• Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/
• Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation
• Company Website: https://mindplay.com/
  
  

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