Leading Engaged Learning

3P Learning

0.0 (0)
Education

Leading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

1d ago

Building Literacy Systems Through People-First Leadership with Dr. Paul Enderle

On Leading Engaged Learning, host Miriam Williams sits down with Dr. Paul Enderle, Superintendent of Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123, to explore how strong leadership, instructional coaching, and intentional system design can improve literacy outcomes for every student. With more than two decades in educational leadership and deep roots in the Oak Lawn community, Dr. Enderle shares how District 123 is strengthening literacy instruction through collaborative structures, guaranteed intervention time, and a people-first approach to supporting educators. From building district-wide consistency across schools to expanding literacy-rich learning opportunities, this conversation highlights what it takes to create coherent systems that truly support students and teachers alike. Key Moments05:37 Leadership Rooted in Community 08:37 Investing in Instructional Coaching 10:12 Creating Guaranteed Student Experiences 11:20 Addressing Post-Pandemic Learning Loss 11:58 Expanding Literacy and Math Instruction Time 12:20 WIN Blocks: “What I Need” Intervention Support 12:52 Using Data to Target Learning Gaps 13:06 Teaching Students How to Read Early 14:15 Building Literacy-Rich School Structures 16:40 Supporting Teachers Through Coaching and Resources 18:10 Creating Collaborative Systems Across Schools 20:25 Strengthening Literacy Through Consistency 23:14 People Over Programs Philosophy Why You’ll Love This EpisodeThis episode offers a practical and thoughtful look at how district leaders can strengthen literacy systems by investing in both students and educators. Dr. Enderle emphasizes that sustainable improvement happens when schools prioritize people, collaboration, and consistent instructional support. You’ll learn: Why instructional coaching can transform teaching and learningHow district-wide collaboration creates consistent student experiencesThe importance of dedicated literacy and intervention timeHow WIN blocks help schools personalize support for studentsWhy strong literacy systems require both resources and educator developmentHow districts can respond to post-pandemic learning challenges strategicallyThe role of servant leadership in building strong school culturesWhy “people over programs” remains a critical leadership mindsetDr. Enderle also reinforces a powerful idea: when educators feel supported and connected, students are more likely to thrive academically and emotionally. Connect with Our GuestDr. Paul EnderleSuperintendent, Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123 Website: https://www.d123.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-enderle-011b0142 Connect with Us3P Learning IncWebsite: https://www.3plearning.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning About Leading Engaged LearningLeading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Hosted by Miriam Williams and produced by 3P Learning Inc, each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

44 min
May 20

Building Belonging Through Dual Language Learning with Dr. Ray Sanchez

On Leading Engaged Learning, host Miriam Williams sits down with Dr. Ray Sanchez, Superintendent of Schools for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns, to explore how dual language education can strengthen literacy, identity, and student belonging. With decades of experience in educational leadership and a deep commitment to equity and multilingual learning, Dr. Sanchez shares how Tarrytown’s dual language program is creating opportunities for students to become bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural learners. From expanding access to multilingual programs to building systems that support authentic literacy instruction in both English and Spanish, this conversation highlights the powerful impact that language-centered learning can have on student achievement and community connection. Key Moments04:47 Dual Language as a Student Superpower 06:39 Diversity as a District Strength 08:01 Building Literacy Through Authentic Texts 11:47 Research Supporting Dual Language Learning 13:45 Designing a 50/50 Language Model 14:46 Monitoring Literacy Growth in Both Languages 17:28 Expanding Access to Dual Language Programs 18:32 Breaking Misconceptions About Dual Language 19:59 Recruiting and Growing Bilingual Educators 21:35 Supporting Teachers Through Coaching and PD 23:45 Building Belonging Through Language and Identity 25:42 Celebrating Student Pride and Connection 26:29 Long-Term Benefits of Biliteracy 27:23 Preparing Students for a Multilingual Workforce Why You’ll Love This EpisodeThis episode offers a thoughtful and practical look at how dual language systems can strengthen literacy outcomes while building stronger school communities. Dr. Sanchez makes it clear that multilingualism is not a barrier—it is one of students’ greatest strengths. You’ll learn: Why supporting students’ first language accelerates second-language acquisitionHow dual language programs build literacy, belonging, and cultural identityThe importance of using authentic texts instead of translated materialsWhat it takes to successfully scale and expand dual language accessHow districts can recruit and support bilingual educatorsWhy professional learning and instructional coaching are critical for teacher successHow dual language education prepares students for future career opportunitiesThe role of culturally relevant curriculum in student engagement and achievementDr. Sanchez also reinforces a powerful idea: when schools honor students’ languages and cultures, students feel seen, valued, and empowered to succeed. Connect with Our GuestDr. Ray SanchezSuperintendent of Schools, Public Schools of the Tarrytowns Website: https://www.tufsd.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ray-sanchez-b77b2a2a0/ Connect with Us3P Learning Inc Website: https://www.3plearning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning About Leading Engaged LearningLeading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Hosted by Miriam Williams and produced by 3P Learning Inc, each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

32 min
Apr 24

Preparing Students for Life After Graduation with Dr. Jason James

On Leading Engaged Learning, host Miriam Williams sits down with Dr. Jason James, Superintendent of Shawnee Public Schools, to explore how districts can better connect literacy, engagement, and real-world readiness. With a background spanning classroom teaching, school leadership, and district administration, Dr. James shares how Shawnee Public Schools is rethinking traditional education models to better prepare students for life after graduation. From implementing Individual Career Academic Plans (ICAP) starting in middle school to strengthening early literacy foundations and expanding career-connected learning opportunities, this conversation highlights how aligning instruction with student interests can transform engagement and outcomes. Key Moments 03:54 ICAP: Starting Career Conversations Early 07:57 Aligning Academics with Student Goals 10:04 Flexibility in Career Pathways 13:44 Exploring Career Academies 17:12 Literacy as the Foundation for All Pathways 19:41 Early Intervention and High Expectations 21:17 The Role of Fluency in Reading Success 23:46 Lessons from Literacy Policy and Investment 27:57 Rethinking Traditional Instruction Models 29:23 Measuring Progress Through Data and Systems 31:07 Strengthening Tier 1 Instruction 34:40 Vision: 100% Life-Ready Graduates 36:11 Enrolled, Employed, or Enlisted (3E Goal) 38:55 Why Education Systems Must Evolve Why You’ll Love This Episode This episode offers a fresh perspective on how districts can bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world outcomes. Dr. James emphasizes that literacy and engagement are not separate from career readiness—they are the foundation of it. You’ll learn: Why starting career conversations as early as middle school changes student motivation How ICAP helps align academics, interests, and long-term goals The importance of early literacy, fluency, and foundational skills for all pathways Why traditional instructional models often fail to engage today’s students How interest-based learning can unlock student potential—even for struggling learners A practical approach to using data, interventions, and Tier 1 instruction to drive improvement What it means to graduate students who are truly “life-ready” How districts can measure success beyond graduation Dr. James also reinforces a critical idea: when students see relevance in what they’re learning, engagement increases—and so do outcomes. Connect with Our Guest Dr. Jason JamesSuperintendent, Shawnee Public Schools LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-james-a6648b399 Website: https://www.shawnee.k12.ok.us/ Connect with Us 3P Learning IncWebsite: https://www.3plearning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning About Leading Engaged Learning Leading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Hosted by Miriam Williams and produced by 3P Learning Inc, each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

42 min
Apr 22

Rebuilding Literacy Systems from the Ground Up with Dr. Bobbie Trevino

On Leading Engaged Learning, host Miriam Williams sits down with Dr. Bobbie Trevino, Superintendent of Zapata County ISD, to explore what it truly takes to rebuild a district’s literacy system from scratch. With over 37 years in education and deep experience serving bilingual and high-poverty communities, Dr. Trevino shares how Zapata ISD shifted from fragmented practices to a coherent, aligned literacy system. From enforcing curriculum consistency across campuses to strengthening early childhood instruction and building leadership accountability, this conversation highlights the hard decisions required to create lasting change. Dr. Trevino also dives into the realities of leading in a high-poverty district—where literacy gaps, low student engagement, and community challenges intersect—and how intentional leadership, data-driven decision-making, and relentless focus on instruction can begin to close those gaps. Key Moments 03:43 Literacy as the District’s “Big Rock” 05:40 Curriculum Alignment Across Schools 07:38 Strengthening Early Childhood Instruction 09:45 Consistency Over “Shiny Programs” 12:16 Rebuilding a Culture of Reading 15:47 Addressing Non-Readers in Secondary 17:19 Monitoring Instruction Through Walkthroughs 20:20 Building Leadership Capacity 22:47 Data Chats for Accountability 26:29 Monitoring Implementation with Fidelity 29:11 Leading from the “Balcony” 32:56 Student Voice Driving Community Engagement 35:00 Parent Partnership and Outreach Why You’ll Love This Episode This episode is a powerful look at what real system change requires—especially in districts facing deep-rooted challenges. Dr. Trevino makes it clear that improving literacy isn’t about adding more programs—it’s about discipline, alignment, and accountability at every level. You’ll learn: Why curriculum alignment is the foundation of any literacy system How to prioritize early childhood instruction to prevent long-term gaps A practical approach to using data chats to drive leadership accountability Why consistency and fidelity matter more than constantly changing programs How to build leadership capacity when principals lack literacy backgrounds The role of student voice in strengthening community engagement How to address literacy gaps in middle and high school students Why hope and belief systems are critical to student success Dr. Trevino also reinforces a powerful idea: real change happens when leaders stay focused, follow through, and build systems where every adult is accountable for student outcomes. Connect with Our Guest Dr. Bobbie TrevinoSuperintendent, Zapata County ISD LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-roberta-bobbie-trevino-edd-88486851 Website: https://www.zcisd.org/ Connect with Us 3P Learning IncWebsite: https://www.3plearning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning About Leading Engaged Learning Leading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Hosted by Miriam Williams and produced by 3P Learning Inc, each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

41 min
Apr 20

Building Coherent Literacy Systems Through Collaboration and Tier 1 Focus with David Moyer

On Leading Engaged Learning, host Miriam Williams sits down with David Moyer, Superintendent of Northport-East Northport Union Free School District, to explore what it takes to build a truly coherent literacy system across all grade levels. With over 16 years of experience as a superintendent and a career spanning multiple roles in education, Moyer shares how districts can move beyond fragmented practices by focusing on Tier 1 instruction, teacher collaboration, and system-wide alignment. From redefining literacy as a shared responsibility across all content areas to implementing professional learning communities and interdisciplinary instruction, this conversation highlights how intentional systems and strong instructional practices can drive meaningful literacy gains. Moyer also emphasizes the importance of assessment practices, teacher development, and student-centered learning in closing gaps and improving engagement, especially as student needs continue to evolve. Key Moments 05:27 Rigor Gaps and Literacy Plateaus 07:23 Literacy Across All Subjects 10:27 Building Teacher Capacity 12:28 Power of Professional Learning Communities 14:03 Interdisciplinary Literacy in Action 16:39 Tier 1 Instruction First 20:09 Student Ownership and Engagement 21:45 Balancing Curriculum and Professional Judgment 23:34 Writing as a Literacy Driver 26:05 Rethinking Interventions (All Students, Shared Responsibility) 27:23 Professional Development Systems 30:37 Instructional Coaching Impact 34:28 Leadership Capacity First 35:46 Future-Focused Learning Systems 39:10 Advice for New Superintendents Why You’ll Love This Episode This episode offers a systems-level perspective on literacy that goes beyond programs and quick fixes. David Moyer makes it clear that lasting improvement comes from building coherence—aligning instruction, assessment, and professional learning across the entire district. You’ll learn: Why Tier 1 instruction is the foundation for all literacy success How professional learning communities drive collaboration and instructional consistency A practical approach to embedding literacy across all subject areas Why assessment practices can either accelerate or hinder student growth How interdisciplinary learning increases engagement and relevance The role of instructional coaching and job-embedded professional development Why leadership capacity is critical for sustaining system-wide change Moyer also reinforces a powerful idea: literacy success isn’t owned by one teacher or subject—it’s a shared responsibility that requires alignment, collaboration, and a strong instructional core. Connect with Our Guest David MoyerSuperintendent, Northport-East Northport Union Free School District LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-moyer-88716a17 Website: https://www.northport.k12.ny.us/ Connect with Us 3P Learning IncWebsite: https://www.3plearning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning About Leading Engaged Learning Leading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Hosted by Miriam Williams and produced by 3P Learning Inc, each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

42 min
Apr 17

Redesigning Literacy Systems with Teacher Ownership and Data with Dr. Eichelberger

In this episode of Leading Engaged Learning, host Miriam Williams sits down with Dr. Drew Eichelberger, Superintendent of Piedmont Public Schools in Oklahoma, to explore what it truly takes to redesign a district-wide literacy system that delivers results for every student. Drawing on over 30 years of experience across classroom teaching, school leadership, and district administration, Drew shares a grounded and practical approach to literacy transformation, one that starts with the people closest to the work: teachers. From building true ownership (not just buy-in) to aligning systems from kindergarten through high school, he outlines how districts can move beyond isolated initiatives toward a cohesive, data-driven literacy strategy. The conversation dives into Piedmont’s “Reading Success” model, which ensures every student is assessed, supported, and accelerated based on their specific needs—no matter their grade level. Drew also highlights the critical role of professional development, small-group instruction, and student engagement in creating sustainable change. Key Moments 02:16 From Classroom to Superintendent 05:33 Ownership Over Buy-In 07:15 Extending Literacy Beyond Elementary 10:24 Data-Driven Student Grouping 11:52 Training Teachers in Science of Reading 14:37 Building a Culture Teachers Stay In 16:52 Small Group Instruction That Works 20:10 Choosing High-Interest Reading Materials 23:02 Teacher-Led Professional Development 25:20 Engaging Struggling Readers 28:14 Moving from Good to Great 31:08 Data as a Non-Negotiable Why You’ll Love This Episode This episode is a practical guide to building literacy systems that are both scalable and sustainable. Dr. Eichelberger makes it clear that improvement doesn’t come from top-down mandates—it comes from empowering teachers, using data with intention, and aligning instruction across all grade levels. You’ll learn: Why ownership matters more than buy-in when driving instructional change How to design a system that supports literacy from kindergarten through high school A practical approach to using data to identify and close skill gaps Why small group instruction is critical at every level—not just elementary How to build a culture that attracts and retains strong teachers The role of professional development in turning good teaching into great teaching How student engagement and interest drive long-term reading success Dr. Eichelberger also reinforces a powerful idea: when you invest in teachers and build the right systems, literacy success becomes consistent—not dependent on chance. Connect with Our Guest Drew EichelbergerSuperintendent, Piedmont Public Schools LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-eichelberger-17736719 Website: https://www.piedmontschools.org/ Connect with Us 3P Learning IncWebsite: https://www.3plearning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning About Leading Engaged Learning Leading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Hosted by Miriam Williams and produced by 3P Learning Inc, each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

40 min
Apr 8

Building Coherent Literacy Systems That Actually Work with Dr. NaTasha Crain

On Leading Engaged Learning, host Miriam Williams sits down with Dr. NaTasha Crain, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction at Marshall ISD, to explore what it really takes to redesign literacy systems from the ground up. With more than two decades in education, Dr. Crain shares how Marshall ISD is moving beyond fragmented initiatives to build coherent, aligned systems that support every learner. From incentivizing third-grade reading through the Read to Ride program to strengthening Tier 1 instruction and leadership capacity, this conversation highlights how intentional design, data, and community partnerships can transform outcomes at scale. Key Moments04:21 Read to Ride: Incentivizing Literacy 07:59 Coherence Over Resources 09:00 Aligning Systems Across Grades 10:30 Strengthening Tier 1 Instruction 12:00 Building K–3 Literacy Foundations 14:21 Closing Early Literacy Gaps 15:14 Supporting Diverse Learners 17:52 Leadership Capacity First 20:55 Ongoing, Layered Professional Development 21:49 Data-Driven Decision Making 25:45 Right Teachers, Right Grades 26:51 Supporting All Learners (Intervention + Extension) 29:50 Extending Learning Time 32:21 Community Partnerships Driving Impact Why You’ll Love This EpisodeThis episode is a masterclass in systems thinking for literacy. Dr. Crain makes it clear that success doesn’t come from adding more programs—it comes from aligning what already exists and executing it with clarity and consistency. You’ll learn: Why coherence matters more than resources in literacy improvementHow to build a strong Tier 1 foundation before scaling interventionsA practical approach to redesigning literacy systems using dataHow to create global systems that serve all learners (ELL, SPED, advanced)Why leadership capacity drives instructional qualityHow to use incentives, like Read to Ride, to boost student motivation and engagementThe importance of layered, ongoing professional development—not one-time trainingDr. Crain also reinforces a powerful idea: when systems are aligned and adults are supported, student success becomes predictable—not accidental. Connect with Our GuestDr. NaTasha CrainAssistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction, Marshall ISDLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-natasha-crain-337575b5 Website: https://www.marshallisd.com/ Connect with Us3P Learning IncWebsite: https://www.3plearning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning About Leading Engaged LearningLeading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Hosted by Miriam Williams and produced by 3P Learning Inc, each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

35 min
Apr 1

PLCs, Trust, and Building Capacity from Within with Jeremy Smalline

On Leading Engaged Learning, host Heather Provencher sits down with Jeremy Smalline, Superintendent of Greece Central School District, for a thoughtful conversation on how districts can drive real gains in student engagement and literacy by investing in people, not just programs. With nearly two decades in the district, Jeremy brings a unique perspective on system-wide change, sharing how Greece is rebuilding professional learning communities (PLCs), strengthening trust, and empowering teachers to use data collaboratively to improve outcomes. From early struggles with PLC implementation to recent double-digit gains in student performance, this episode highlights what it takes to create sustainable, culture-driven change. Key Moments 06:02 Focusing on professional learning communities 08:05 Relaunching and improving PLC practices 12:09 Listening to community feedback 15:47 Creating support systems for teachers 19:58 Shifting resources for student impact 22:43 Listening, feedback, and next steps 24:58 Future goals and student achievement 30:04 The role of the board 31:12 Importance of long-term planning Why You’ll Love This Episode This episode is a powerful reminder that meaningful literacy and engagement gains don’t come from new programs—they come from strengthening the people and systems already in place. You’ll take away: A clear blueprint for relaunching PLCs the right way after past failuresHow to build teacher ownership and buy-in through guiding coalitionsWhy time for collaboration is the most valuable resource a district can provideA leadership approach grounded in listening, transparency, and vulnerabilityA critical mindset shift: data as empowerment, not intimidationA practical truth: sustainable improvement requires 5-year thinking, not yearly resetsJeremy’s perspective reinforces a central theme of this podcast: when teachers are supported, trusted, and given time to collaborate, student outcomes follow. Connect with Our Guest Jeremy SmallineSuperintendent, Greece Central School District LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-smalline-a3185049 Website: https://www.greececsd.org/ Connect with Us 3P Learning IncWebsite: https://www.3plearning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning About Leading Engaged Learning Leading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Hosted by Heather Provencher and produced by 3P Learning Inc, each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

35 min
Mar 25

Breaking Down Silos: Building Collaborative Teaching Models for Student Success

On Leading Engaged Learning, host Heather Provencher sits down with Dr. Kelly Coffin, Superintendent of Farmington Public Schools, for a powerful conversation on how system-level design, teacher investment, and mindset shifts can unlock meaningful literacy gains across a district. Drawing on her experience across special education, general education, and district leadership, Dr. Coffin shares how Farmington is rethinking traditional school structures, from team-based staffing models to integrated literacy across subjects, to ensure every student feels seen, supported, and challenged. The conversation highlights how literacy improvement isn’t just about curriculum,it’s about building systems that prioritize collaboration, student voice, and sustained teacher growth. Key Moments 04:53 "Supporting Teachers, Students Together" 07:23 "Empowered Students, Supportive Community" 12:14 Transforming Education Through Teacher Support 16:30 Middle School Teaming Success 17:40 Integrating Contextual Learning Strategies 23:29 Boosting Success Through Parent Involvement 27:18 Teacher-Centered Curriculum Adoption Process 28:12 Collaborative Resource Evaluation Process 32:07 Balancing Tools for Student Success 35:27 "Sustainable Systemic Classroom Change" Why You’ll Love This Episode This episode is a masterclass in system-level leadership for literacy improvement. You’ll learn: How team-based staffing models can transform both teacher experience and student outcomes Why literacy gains accelerate when reading and writing are embedded across all subjects A practical framework for diagnosing literacy challenges beyond just “curriculum issues” How to implement curriculum adoption with teacher buy-in through pilots and proof-of-concept Why teacher investment (time, coaching, collaboration) is the most critical lever for change A mindset shift that stands out: acceleration over remediation A powerful equity move: ensuring all students access grade-level content—no pull-outs from core instruction Dr. Coffin also reinforces a critical leadership principle: sustainable change lives in classrooms, not central office—and it only happens when teachers are supported, trusted, and empowered. Connect with Our Guest Dr. Kelly CoffinSuperintendent, Farmington Public Schools (Michigan) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-coffin-050ab36a Website: https://www.farmington.k12.mi.us/ Connect with Us 3P Learning IncWebsite: https://www.3plearning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning About Leading Engaged Learning Leading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Hosted by Heather Provencher and produced by 3P Learning Inc, each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

40 min
Feb 27

PD for All: Creating Lasting Literacy Change Across Diverse School Communities

On Leading Engaged Learning, host Heather Provencher sits down with Amy Breiler, Director of Teaching & Learning for Literacy at Community Consolidated School District 21 (CCSD21), for a grounded conversation on what it takes to strengthen literacy outcomes in a district defined by extraordinary linguistic and programmatic diversity. Amy reflects on 31 years in education and shares how CCSD21 is aligning to Illinois’ Comprehensive Literacy Plan, tightening coherence through learning walks and scope-and-sequence work, rebuilding trust after change, and investing in teacher knowledge as the real engine of sustainable literacy improvement. From data literacy to coaching culture, the message is clear: resources matter, but teacher expertise and professional learning systems matter more. Key Moments 05:47 Diverse Bilingual Education Challenges 08:06 Focused Literacy Evaluation Initiative 13:04 Rebuilding Trust and Teacher Autonomy 16:25 Strengthening Early Literacy Instruction 18:08 Strategies Over Resources for Literacy 21:54 "Prioritizing Collaborative Instructional Practices" 24:47 "Data Literacy in Education" 28:26 "Universal Professional Development Framework" 32:34 Teacher Collaboration Fuels Professional Growth 36:12 "Leading with Focus on Students" Why You’ll Love This Episode This episode is packed with real-world district leadership lessons—especially if you’re leading literacy improvement across multiple programs, campuses, and languages. You’ll hear: What learning walks reveal that dashboards can’t—and how to use them as a systems tool How coherence across teams supports vertical alignment, reduces confusion, and improves outcomes A candid look at change management: why “better systems” can still feel like lost autonomy A practical framework for diagnosing slow progress: teacher knowledge + implementation support How to build data literacy so teams use assessments to inform instruction, not chase numbers The strongest through-line: professional learning is the catalyst—and “PD for all” is the unmet need Amy also brings urgency to a reality many districts share: students are reading less outside school, and literacy growth requires sustained practice. This conversation tackles engagement, constraints, and culture-building head-on. Connect with Our Guest Amy BreilerDirector of Teaching & Learning for Literacy at Community Consolidated School District 21 Website: https://ccsd21.org/ Connect with Us 3P Learning IncWebsite: https://www.3plearning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning About Leading Engaged Learning Leading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Hosted by Heather Provencher and produced by 3P Learning Inc, each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

39 min
Feb 20

Coherence, Stability, and “Jazz” Instruction: Building Sustainable Literacy Systems with Rebecca Tompkins

On Leading Engaged Learning: A 3P Learning Podcast, host Heather Provencher sits down with Rebecca Tompkins, Executive Director of Curriculum & Learning at Sycamore Community Schools, for a systems-level conversation on how districts can strengthen literacy outcomes by building coherence, stability, and sustainable engagement. Rebecca shares how Sycamore Community Schools in Southwest Ohio has approached science of reading and structured literacy implementation with a focus on fidelity and professional autonomy, using a memorable jazz metaphor to explain how strong fundamentals create the conditions for instructional “improvisation.” The conversation dives into the practical realities of districtwide curriculum alignment, instructional coaching, managing resistance, and building speaking-and-listening skills through Socratic seminars starting as early as kindergarten. Key Moments 03:30 "Jazz Metaphor for Literacy" 07:16 "District Embraces Science of Reading" 10:04 "Implementing Curriculum with Fidelity" 15:57 "Socratic Seminars in Early Education" 19:24 "Building Alignment and Collaboration" 21:03 "Building a Common Teaching Framework" 27:06 Understanding the Science of Reading 30:27 "Sustainable Engagement in Learning" 33:16 "Connect with Sycamore Schools" Why You’ll Love This Episode This episode is a practical playbook for district leaders trying to implement science of reading and structured literacy without burning out teachers or losing momentum after year one. You’ll hear: A clear, memorable way to explain fidelity + autonomy (the jazz metaphor) How coherence across buildings reduces cognitive load for teachers and students Why instructional coaching is the bridge between training days and real classroom change A grounded approach to resistance: treat it as information, respond with support, stay steady A powerful definition of engagement that goes beyond novelty to persistence and confidence A standout classroom example: Socratic seminars beginning in kindergarten to build thinking, listening, and communicationIf you’re aiming for sustainable literacy improvement, this conversation highlights what it takes to build a system that’s consistent, scalable, and supportive of real classrooms. Connect with Our Guest Rebecca TompkinsExecutive Director of Curriculum & Learning at Sycamore Community Schools LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-tompkins-b2121778 Website: https://www.sycamoreschools.org/ Connect with Us 3P Learning IncWebsite: https://www.3plearning.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning About Leading Engaged Learning Leading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Hosted by Heather Provencher and produced by 3P Learning Inc, each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

34 min

11 Episodes

Leading Engaged Learning is a podcast series for district leaders and education innovators focused on what it really takes to improve literacy outcomes by strengthening student engagement. Each episode explores the real-world decisions, constraints, and tradeoffs behind building systems that help students become more confident readers.

Creator

3P Learning
Years Active

2K
Episodes

11
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2026 3P Learning
Show Website

Leading Engaged Learning