Leading Engaged Learning

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 Moments 04:47 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 Episode This 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 acquisition * How dual language programs build literacy, belonging, and cultural identity * The importance of using authentic texts instead of translated materials * What it takes to successfully scale and expand dual language access * How districts can recruit and support bilingual educators * Why professional learning and instructional coaching are critical for teacher success * How dual language education prepares students for future career opportunities * The role of culturally relevant curriculum in student engagement and achievement Dr. Sanchez also reinforces a powerful idea: when schools honor students’ languages and cultures, students feel seen, valued, and empowered to succeed. Connect with Our Guest Dr. Ray Sanchez Superintendent of Schools, Public Schools of the Tarrytowns Website: https://www.tufsd.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ray-sanchez-b77b2a2a0/ Connect with Us 3P Learning Inc Website: 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.

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 James Superintendent, Shawnee Public Schools LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-james-a6648b399 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-james-a6648b399] Website: https://www.shawnee.k12.ok.us/ [https://www.shawnee.k12.ok.us/]  Connect with Us 3P Learning Inc Website: https://www.3plearning.com/ [https://www.3plearning.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning [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.

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 Trevino Superintendent, Zapata County ISD LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-roberta-bobbie-trevino-edd-88486851 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-roberta-bobbie-trevino-edd-88486851] Website: https://www.zcisd.org/ [https://www.zcisd.org/]  Connect with Us 3P Learning Inc Website: https://www.3plearning.com/ [https://www.3plearning.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning [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.

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 Moyer Superintendent, Northport-East Northport Union Free School District LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-moyer-88716a17 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-moyer-88716a17] Website: https://www.northport.k12.ny.us/ [https://www.northport.k12.ny.us/]  Connect with Us 3P Learning Inc Website: https://www.3plearning.com/ [https://www.3plearning.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning [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.

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 Eichelberger Superintendent, Piedmont Public Schools LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-eichelberger-17736719 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-eichelberger-17736719] Website: https://www.piedmontschools.org/ [https://www.piedmontschools.org/]  Connect with Us 3P Learning Inc Website: https://www.3plearning.com/ [https://www.3plearning.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3p-learning [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.