Steps Forward: MTSS for Early Reading

Welcome to "Steps Forward," the podcast where we dive deeply into a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) for early reading and the transformative power of Implementation Science. Join us as we explore how school districts can effectively implement MTSS frameworks to support the diverse early reading needs of students in our schools.

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Episodes

Episode 8: Strengthening Tier One: Implementing MTSS for Lasting Change

In this episode of Steps Forward, I speak with Jennie Rider, Supervisor of Curriculum, Instruction, and Intervention at Netcong School District. We discuss the importance of focusing on tier one instruction within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. Jennie shares her district's experience transitioning from the Response to Intervention model to MTSS, addressing the challenges of high caseloads in tiered intervention and the absence of a universal screener. Jennie shares practical...

Oct 06, 2024•54 min•Season 1Ep. 8

Episode 7: Advancing Literacy Through Tier 1 Core Instruction and Implementation Science

In this episode of Steps Forward, I speak with Dr. Michelle Duda and Deborah Lynam. Dr. Michelle Duda, founder and president of Implementation Scientists LLC, is a globally recognized expert in implementation science and MTSS. With over 20 years of experience and a track record of driving systemic change in schools and organizations, she’s known for turning research into practice with proven, sustainable results. Dr. Duda has led national and international initiatives, making her a trusted autho...

Sep 15, 2024•1 hr 25 min•Season 1Ep. 7

Episode 6: Optimizing Early Reading Assessments: A Leadership Journey in MTSS Implementation

In this episode of Steps Forward, I speak with Jaime Doldan, Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction at the Township of Franklin Public School District. Join us as we explore the journey of school-based leadership and the importance of assessments within an MTSS framework for early reading. Jaime delves into the assessments used by her district before implementing MTSS, highlighting the challenges faced without precise data. Learn how their leadership team was formed to enhance assessment pract...

Aug 04, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 6

Episode 5: Unlocking Early Reading Success: The Power of Assessments in MTSS for Early Reading

In this episode of Steps Forward, I speak with Dr. Adam Lekwa, Assistant Professor at Rutgers University, about the role of assessments within an MTSS framework for early reading. Dr. Lekwa discusses the different types of early reading assessments used in grades K-3, emphasizing the importance of universal screening. He explains the purpose of these assessments, the significance of predictive validity and reliability, and the consequences of using ineffective screeners. Dr. Lekwa also offers pr...

Jul 19, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 1Ep. 5

Episode 4: Navigating Early Literacy Challenges with Coaching and Collaboration

In this episode, Janice McDowell, Instructional Coach and Intervention Coordinator at Wayside Elementary School in the Township of Ocean School District discusses the critical role of instructional coaching in the implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports for early reading, how instructional coaches support the integration of universal screening, and the important shifts in practice their district made to strengthen tier 1 core instruction to meet the majority of student’s early readin...

Jul 03, 2024•50 min

Episode 3: Enhancing Data-Based Decision-Making for Early Reading Through Instructional Coaching in an MTSS Framework

In this episode, Dr. Alexander Kurz, Associate Research Professor in the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University, discusses instructional coaching as a valuable job-embedded professional development mechanism and how engaged leadership teams can leverage important implementation drivers critical for the successful implementation of an instructional coaching model to support MTSS for early reading. Key Takeaways: MTSS for early reading is a significant systems change initiati...

Jun 24, 2024•1 hr 18 min

Episode 2: Leading the Way: The Critical Role of Leadership Teams in Implementing an MTSS for Early Reading

In this episode, Michelle Shappirio, Supervisor of English Language Arts, Intervention, & Instructional Coaching at the Township of Ocean School District, discusses the critical role the district and building leadership team has in supporting the implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports for early reading, how universal screening changed the way their district addressed early reading, and other practical insights about navigating the real-world complexities of systems change in sch...

May 31, 2024•53 min

Episode 1: Getting Started: MTSS for Early Reading

In this episode, Dr. Todd Glover discusses a Multi-Tiered System of Supports framework for addressing early reading, practical strategies for implementing this framework in schools, and the critical role of data in guiding instructional decisions. Key Takeaways: MTSS is an antidote to the traditional "wait to fail" model MTSS starts with ensuring tier 1 instruction is sufficiently meeting the needs of students Local leadership teams are the foundational driver of implementation success Data are ...

May 17, 2024•36 min•Season 1Ep. 1

Steps Forward Trailer

Welcome to "Steps Forward," the podcast where we explore the transformative power of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) for early reading and Implementation Science. Hosted by Gina Mazzariello, an experienced literacy coach, reading specialist, and consultant, this show delves into how school districts can engage in systemic change to support our youngest readers. Tune in for insightful discussions with experts, sharing practical strategies and evidence-based practices for effective MTSS i...

May 10, 2024•2 min•Season 1Ep. 1

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