Bridging the Gap

instituteforedlead

Bridging the Gap delivers bite-sized episodes that translate cutting-edge academic research into practical insights for educational leaders. Each episode breaks down complex studies into clear, actionable takeaways to support informed decision-making in schools and districts. Each episode shares practical wisdom and resources for today’s educational leader in about 10 minutes.

  1. Episode 44: Book Review That One Kid

    APR 24

    Episode 44: Book Review That One Kid

    In this episode, we dive into the book That One Kid: Changing Lives, One Student at a Time by author Brian Mendler. This book is a powerful and practical guide for educators navigating disruptive, defiant, or disengaged behavior. This book challenges traditional discipline models and invites us to see behavior not as a character flaw, but as a skills gap rooted in unmet needs. In this book, we explore what it really means to lead with connection before correction, how to avoid power struggles without losing authority, and why accountability and empathy must coexist in today’s classrooms. Whether you are an administrator, teacher, or para-educator, this book offers concrete strategies you can implement immediately. If you have ever felt stuck, frustrated, or unsure of how to reach that one student, this book will leave you encouraged, equipped, and ready to respond. Sometimes changing how we see “that one kid” changes everything.   Book Study Guide

    6 min
  2. Episode 43: Discussing Research on the Science of Reading

    APR 10

    Episode 43: Discussing Research on the Science of Reading

    In this episode of Bridging the Gap: Research Edition, we explore "Navigating (Another) Reading Crisis as an Administrator: Rethinking the ‘Science of Reading’ Movement" by P.L. Thomas from the Journal of School Administration Research and Development. We unpack the article’s central claim that much of the current “reading crisis” narrative has been shaped—and often distorted—by media and political messaging, leading to cycles of abandoning and adopting new programs that disrupt instructional consistency. The conversation challenges the idea of a one-size-fits-all solution, instead emphasizing the importance of balance in literacy instruction and clarifying common misconceptions—like the true meaning of “balanced literacy” and how NAEP proficiency data is often misinterpreted. From there, we dig into what this means for school leaders navigating real-world pressures around curriculum, implementation, and accountability. We discuss the tension between fidelity to programs and teacher autonomy, especially for educators at different experience levels, and highlight the article’s call for administrators to prioritize teacher professionalism, student-centered decision-making, and a deeper understanding of what assessment data can—and cannot—tell us. Grounded in the spirit of Think Again by Adam Grant, this episode encourages leaders to question oversimplified narratives and lead with nuance in an area where easy answers simply don’t exist. Thomas, P. (2025). Navigating (Another) Reading Crisis as an Administrator: Rethinking the "Science of Reading" Movement  Episode 24: Defining Comprehensive Literacy: A Conversation with Dr. Lori Norton-Meier  National Center for Education Statistics - Mapping State Proficiency Standards on to NAEP Scales 2007-2019

    7 min
  3. Episode 42: Collaborative 504 Conference

    APR 8

    Episode 42: Collaborative 504 Conference

    In this episode, we sit down with UNI Professor Emeritus Dr. Susan Etscheidt to preview our upcoming Collaborative 504 Conference and explore the key topics shaping the conversation. Dr. Etscheidt breaks down some of the essential components to be discussed at the conference for effective 504 implementation, including shared coordination practices, clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and navigating eligibility decisions. She discusses the breakout sessions, who should attend—from administrators to educators and support staff—and why it’s critical for teams to come together with a shared understanding. This conference emphasizes the value of collaboration in building and refining a comprehensive, legally sound, and student-centered 504 plan for your district. The conference is June 22, 2026 and will be held at the Central Rivers AEA.  Conference Registration Here - Early Bird pricing ends May 15, 2026

    13 min
  4. Episode 41: Book Review - Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter

    APR 3

    Episode 41: Book Review - Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter

    In this episode, we will review Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter by Liz Wiseman. This book reveals why some leaders bring out the best in their teams while others unintentionally hold people back. Leaders who are Multipliers amplify intelligence, spark innovation, and get twice the impact from their people, not by working harder themselves, but by helping others think harder. Tune in to learn how you can become the kind of leader who makes everyone around you smarter.    Multipliers Website  Study Guide for Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter

    6 min
  5. Episode 40: Article Discussion Topic - Direct Instruction

    MAR 31

    Episode 40: Article Discussion Topic - Direct Instruction

    In this inaugural Research Edition episode, co-hosts Amanda Schmidt and Mary Sult (your resident former K-12 practitioners-turned-research-leaders) are putting a polarizing educational staple under the microscope: Direct Instruction. Inspired by Adam Grant’s Think Again, we’re ditching the oversimplified media narratives to "think like scientists." We dive into the Perspectives on Behavior Science article, "Just How Effective is Direct Instruction?" by Lee Mason and Maria Otero, to settle a long-standing point of confusion in the teacher’s lounge. Just How Effective is Direct Instruction? - Lee Mason and Maria Otero  Think Again - Adam Grant John Hattie's Visible Learning

    10 min
  6. Episode 39: Social & Emotional Learning Conference

    MAR 16

    Episode 39: Social & Emotional Learning Conference

    In this episode of the Bridging the Gap podcast, we speak with Dr. Nicole Skaar, from the University of Northern Iowa about the origins and impact of UNI's fifth annual Social & Emotional Learning Conference supporting students’ social, emotional, and behavioral development. Dr. Skaar shares how the event began with a vision from Aricia Beckman to support students with autism and evolved—through collaboration with Dr. Kerri Clopton—into a broader focus on social-emotional learning, now entering its sixth year. She discusses why SEL is increasingly important as educators see more students arriving at school with social and emotional challenges, highlighting that SEL builds on long-standing practices like character education, classroom management, and strong teacher–student relationships. The conference will feature keynote speaker Dr. Stephanie Jones of the Harvard Graduate School of Education, director of the EASEL Lab and the Harvard Center on the Developing Child, as well as children’s author Susan Verde, author of the bestselling I Am Human. The conference also highlights the work of Iowa educators through breakout sessions that showcase practical SEL strategies being used in schools across the state. Register for in-person attendance Register for online virtual keynotes only  Leader Valley Marc Brackett

    12 min
  7. Episode 38: Leadership Book Review of The Curious Leader

    MAR 13

    Episode 38: Leadership Book Review of The Curious Leader

    In this episode, we dive into the book The Curious Leader by author Jon Bassford to explore how curiosity—not just authority—is the key to breakthrough innovation and team empowerment. The book highlights several key themes regarding how shifting from a "know-it-all" to a "learn-it-all" mindset transforms how organizations operate and how cultures are built.  Study Guide for The Curious Leader

    4 min
  8. Episode 37: Book Review of Coach Better, Lead Better

    FEB 27

    Episode 37: Book Review of Coach Better, Lead Better

    In this episode, we explore Coach Better, Lead Better: Coaching Excellence for School and District Leaders by Melinda Baiza and Lorna Klokkenga. This book reveals why some educational leaders get caught in the cycle of managing fires while others create self-sustaining cultures of growth. Leaders who lead through coaching don’t just delegate tasks; they ignite resilience, spark proactive problem-solving, and build adaptable systems that thrive under pressure. Tune in to learn how you can start being the catalyst who makes everyone in your school community better. Coach Better, Lead Better Study Questions

    4 min
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About

Bridging the Gap delivers bite-sized episodes that translate cutting-edge academic research into practical insights for educational leaders. Each episode breaks down complex studies into clear, actionable takeaways to support informed decision-making in schools and districts. Each episode shares practical wisdom and resources for today’s educational leader in about 10 minutes.

Information

  • Creator
    instituteforedlead
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    46
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Bridging the Gap