Teaching, Reading, and Learning: The Reading League Podcast The Reading League

As a student growing up with a learning difference, Rupen Fofaria brings a particular empathy and vulnerability to his writing. He offers a storyteller’s sensibility in his reporting, and his work truly embodies the Gandhi quote he lives by: “In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” In this podcast episode we’ll dig into the power of story, Rupen’s background and influences (including his life-changing moment with Mr. Boggs), and the journey that has brought him to focus his reporting on the intersection of literacy and equity.

Our guest today is Deborah Jacobson, a special education attorney from Berkeley, California who came to my attention when I read about a lawsuit against Berkeley Unified School District for not serving the needs of students who struggle to learn to read. We’ll talk about what led to the legal action, the terms of the settlement, and what this might mean for districts across the country and for the future of our children.

Audie Alumbaugh is an extraordinary advocate for the children of Arkansas, traveling the state supporting families as they navigate the education system, and working with legislators and the governor to pass important legislation over the last ten years. In this podcast episode, she’ll share her journey and her relentless pursuit of literacy for all; as she states, “society will not rest until we get this fixed.” You will leave this podcast inspired and moved.

I’ve known Kelly for several years and have had the good fortune to work with her on several projects. I find her a passionate leader in advocating for evidence-based and equitable instruction for all students, with true devotion to her home state of Mississippi. In this episode, you’ll learn about the Mississippi success story (including lessons learned), Kelly’s professional journey, and the five credos she lives by.

Shawn Anthony Robinson has an amazing and inspiring story to tell. In this episode, you’ll learn about his journey from special education to learning to read, then going on to receive bachelors, masters, and doctorate degrees. You’ll also hear about the scope and impact of his work, which he describes as the intersection of race, giftedness, and dyslexia. Finally, you’ll meet “Dr. Dyslexia Dude,” his autobiographical superhero graphic novel series.

Jeannine Herron has led a remarkable life. She is an accomplished neurobiologist, educator, research psychologist, software developer, author, and entrepreneur. In this episode you’ll learn about her involvement in the civil rights movement and how this led to directing the first Head Start program, her family’s year-and-a-half sailing journey to West Africa, her groundbreaking research, and her current work. Jeannine continues her relentless devotion to the cause of literacy for all, and her greatest hope is a “literacy revolution.” This episode is a fascinating look at a fascinating life.