Stellar Teacher Podcast

Part 3: New Teacher Blueprint SeriesThe first few weeks of school can make or break the rest of your year—and one of the biggest factors in creating a smooth, productive classroom is teaching procedures effectively.In this episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, we're continuing our New Teacher Blueprint series by walking through a simple framework for teaching classroom procedures that actually stick. If you've ever explained a routine, watched your students nod along, and then completely forget what to do moments later, you're not alone. The reality is that procedures need to be taught the same way we teach any other skill: through explicit instruction, modeling, practice, feedback, and repetition.Resources & Links:

In this replay episode, literacy experts Dr. Jana Echevarría and Dr. Jeannette Mancilla-Martinez share research-backed insights and practical strategies for supporting multilingual learners in upper elementary classrooms.You'll learn why the term multilingual learner matters, the difference between conversational and academic language, and how teachers can provide grade-level instruction while supporting language development. Our guests also share actionable ways to integrate listening, speaking, reading, and writing into everyday lessons so multilingual learners can thrive.If you're looking for simple, effective ways to better support multilingual learners, this conversation is full of valuable takeaways you can use right away.

Part 2: New Teacher Blueprint SeriesThe beginning of the school year comes with a long list of classroom procedures to teach... but here's the good news: you don't have to teach all of them at once.In this episode of The New Teacher Blueprint series, Tami is breaking down the classroom procedures that matter most during the first days of school. Instead of trying to tackle an overwhelming checklist, you'll learn how to prioritize the routines students need right away so you can create a calm, organized, and successful classroom environment.We'll discuss:✔ Why you don't need to teach every procedure during the first week of school✔ The first classroom routines to teach when students arrive✔ How to make transitions smoother throughout the day✔ Important expectations for restroom breaks, hallway behavior, and lunch✔ What students should do when they finish their workWhether you're a new teacher setting up your classroom for the first time or a veteran teacher looking to refresh your routines, this episode will help you focus on the procedures that have the biggest impact.Tune in next week as we share how to teach procedures so they actually stick all year long.

If you're working to align your literacy instruction with the science of reading, this listener favorite interview is for you!In this conversation, literacy expert and author Lindsay Kemeny shares the 7 research-backed strategies from her book Seven Mighty Moves that help teachers strengthen reading instruction and support all learners. Lindsay discusses how her experience supporting her son with dyslexia transformed her teaching and led her to embrace structured literacy practices.In this episode, you'll learn:✔️ The 7 "mighty moves" that improve reading outcomes✔️ How to bridge the gap between research and classroom practice✔️ Common mistakes teachers make when implementing the science of reading✔️ Practical ways to support struggling readers and build strong literacy foundations✔️ Where to start without feeling overwhelmedWhether you teach primary or upper elementary students, you'll leave with actionable ideas you can implement right away.

Part 1: New Teacher BlueprintGetting your classroom ready for a new school year can feel overwhelming. Between Pinterest-perfect classrooms, endless classroom décor ideas, and a growing back-to-school to-do list, it's easy to spend time focusing on things that won't actually make your year easier.In this first episode of our New Teacher Blueprint series, Tami and Meghan are sharing practical classroom setup tips that will help you create a space that works for both you and your students.You'll hear why function should come before decoration, how to think through your classroom layout, and which classroom areas are most important to prioritize before students arrive.In this episode, we'll discuss:✔ Why your classroom should function like a workspace, not a showroom✔ How to avoid overspending on classroom décor and supplies✔ The classroom areas every teacher should prioritize✔ Tips for organizing classroom materials and supplies✔ Why it's okay to change your classroom setup throughout the yearTune in next Monday as we continue the New Teacher Blueprint series and discuss the most important classroom procedures to teach first.

Part 6: Your Literacy Block SeriesLearn how to make small group instruction purposeful and effective. Tami breaks down the five key questions about small groups: what they are, what they look like, how they differ from whole group, how much time to spend, and real examples using Stellar Literacy Collective resources. Perfect for upper elementary teachers looking to differentiate literacy instruction and meet student needs.Topics Covered:Defining small group instruction vs. whole groupForming fluid groups based on student dataTime management for small groupsWord study & morphology lessonsAddressing foundational reading gapsResources Mentioned:⭐The Stellar Literacy Collective: stellarteacher.com/join

Part 5: Your Literacy Block SeriesIn this episode of our Your Literacy Block series, Emily is talking all about writing— and why it deserves a place in every upper elementary literacy block.Many teachers think of writing as essays, state testing, and lengthy writing projects.... but writing can be so much more than that. When students write about what they read, they deepen comprehension, organize their thinking, and make their learning visible.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why writing and reading are so closely connected• The importance of sentence-level writing instruction• How writing can strengthen comprehension without adding another subject block to your day• Three simple writing routines you can start using immediately:Writing About ReadingExpand with DetailsCombining SentencesIf you've ever wondered how to fit writing into your literacy block, this episode will give you practical ideas that build stronger readers, writers, and thinkers —all within the instructional time you already have.Tune in next week as we wrap up the series with small group instruction!Resources Mentioned:⭐The Stellar Literacy Collective: stellarteacher.com/join

Think fluency instruction is only for primary grades? Think again.In this episode, we're unpacking why reading fluency remains one of the most important—and often overlooked—components of literacy instruction in upper elementary. You'll learn how fluency impacts comprehension, the common signs students are struggling, and simple ways to build meaningful fluency practice into your literacy block.Plus, we'll share an easy-to-implement 5 day fluency routine that can help students become more confident, expressive, and successful readers.Fluency isn't just about reading faster, it's the bridge between decoding and comprehension.Resources & Links:The Stellar Literacy Collective stellarteacher.com/joinTier 1 Instruction That Works Workshop stellarteacher.com/workshop

Your Literacy Block: Part 4Fluency is more than reading fast — it's the bridge between word recognition and comprehension. In this episode of the Your Literacy Block series, Emily breaks down what reading fluency really means, why upper elementary students still need explicit fluency instruction, and three simple, research-backed activities you can start using this week.You'll learn:the 3 components of fluency: accuracy, automaticity, and prosodyHow fluency connects to Scarborough's Reading RopeWhy upper elementary teachers often overlook fluency instruction3 quick fluency activities: repeated reading (with the "One Glow, One Grow" partner routine), echo reading, and silly voicesMark your calendars! The Stellar Teacher Collective Kickoff is coming up — a live virtual training just for our Collective members. Join us July 5th - 10th as we explore the *new* Collective website and plan and prep for the school year. This is your chance to learn live, ask questions in real time, and connect with fellow upper elementary teachers in the community.Not a Collective member yet? stellarteacher.com/joinCatch up on the series:Part 1 (Comprehension)Part 2 (Word Study with Kori),Part 3 (Phonics & Phonemic Awareness).

Supporting struggling readers is one of the most important—and often most challenging—parts of literacy instruction. When intervention time is limited and student needs vary widely, it can be difficult to know where to focus your efforts.In this episode, literacy specialist Shannon Moore joins us to discuss the key components of effective reading intervention and how teachers can create systems that lead to meaningful student growth. Whether you're responsible for intervention groups, supporting students during your literacy block, or looking for ways to strengthen your school's intervention practices, this conversation will provide clear, actionable ideas you can put into practice right away.In this episode, we'll discuss:• The four essential components of effective literacy intervention• How to use assessment data to make informed instructional decisions• Tips for creating flexible, skill-based intervention groupsIf you're looking for a more structured approach to supporting struggling readers, this episode is full of practical advice and encouragement.Resources & Links:The Stellar Literacy Collective stellarteacher.com/joinThe Stellar Reading Intervention Toolkit stellarteacher.com/intervention

Your Literacy Block: Part 3If you've ever wondered whether phonemic awareness and phonics still matter in upper elementary, this episode is for you!While these foundational skills are often associated with primary grades, many students in third, fourth, and fifth grade continue to struggle because of gaps in their word recognition skills. In this episode, we're unpacking the difference between phonemic awareness and phonics, why both are essential for reading success, and how teachers can provide targeted support without overhauling their entire literacy block.In this episode, we'll discuss:The difference between phonemic awareness and phonicsWhy foundational reading skills still matter in grades 3–5How gaps in word recognition impact fluency and comprehensionScarborough's Reading Rope and the role of word recognitionPractical phonemic awareness activities for upper elementary studentsEffective phonics routines and instructional strategiesWays to provide targeted support without adding more to your plateResources Mentioned:⭐The Stellar Literacy Collective: stellarteacher.com/slc

We replayed an interview with Dr. Molly Ness last week... and we just could not help airing this one too! We love our interview episodes. What helps a word move from something students have to sound out to something they instantly recognize?In this episode, literacy researcher and educator Dr. Molly Ness joins us to explore orthographic mapping—the process that allows readers to permanently store words in memory for quick and effortless retrieval.If you've ever worked with students who can decode a word one day but seem to forget it the next, this conversation will help explain why. Dr. Ness breaks down the science behind how the brain learns words and shares a practical four-step routine teachers can use to support word learning, fluency, and reading comprehension.Whether you're a classroom teacher, interventionist, or literacy coach, you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of how skilled reading develops—and simple instructional moves you can implement right away.In this episode, you'll learn:What orthographic mapping is and how it supports fluent readingWhy automatic word recognition is critical for comprehensionThe connection between phonemic awareness, phonics, and word memoryCommon misconceptions about how students learn wordsA simple four-step routine that helps words "stick"If you love what Dr. Molly Ness has to say in this episode, you will love what is happening in our Summer Learning Series. We are reading her book Making Words Stick. There is still time to join in - visit stellarteacher.com/summerpd.

Your Literacy Block Series: Part 2If your students freeze when they come across long, unfamiliar words while reading, this episode is for you.In today's episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, we're talking about how morphology instruction can completely change reading confidence for upper elementary students. You'll learn how teaching prefixes, suffixes, roots, and base words helps students decode unfamiliar vocabulary, improve spelling, and strengthen comprehension.We also break down what explicit morphology instruction actually looks like during whole group, small group, and independent reading—without adding another complicated routine to your literacy block.Inside this episode:What morphology is and why it mattersSimple questions students can ask when decoding big wordsExamples using words like “unexplainable” and “transportation”Easy word study routines you can use in 5–10 minutes a dayHow morphology supports both decoding and comprehensionIf you teach grades 3–5, this episode will give you practical strategies you can start using right away.Resources Mentioned:⭐ FREE Reading Big Words Poster stellarteacher.com/bigwords⭐ Whole Group Lessons with built-in morphology instruction only available in the Stellar Literacy Collective ⤵︎⭐The Stellar Literacy Collective: stellarteacher.com/slc

Are read-alouds still worth making time for in an upper elementary classroom? According to literacy researcher and author Dr. Molly Ness—they absolutely are.In this episode, we dive into the research-backed benefits of read-alouds and why they still play an essential role in a Science of Reading-aligned literacy block. From building vocabulary and background knowledge to increasing engagement and comprehension, Dr. Ness shares practical insights teachers can immediately apply in their classrooms.If you've ever questioned whether read-alouds are “enough” academically, this conversation will remind you just how powerful they can be.

Your Literacy Block Series: Part 1If you've ever wondered:“How do I actually help my students comprehend what they read?” …this episode is for you.Reading comprehension is the goal of reading instruction—but it's not just one strategy or skill. In this episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, we're kicking off a brand-new series all about building an effective upper elementary literacy block.We're sharing:What reading comprehension actually isWhy comprehension should be woven throughout your literacy blockThe key components that support comprehensionA simple research-backed 3-2-1 framework you can use with ANY textYou'll walk away with practical ideas for building background knowledge, teaching vocabulary, supporting sentence-level understanding, asking meaningful questions, and using writing about reading to deepen comprehension.If you've ever wondered how to actually help students better understand what they read, this episode is for you.Resources Mentioned:⭐ Whole Group Lessons with built-in 3-2-1 comprehension support only available in the Stellar Literacy Collective ⤵︎⭐The Stellar Literacy Collective: stellarteacher.com/slc

The school year is almost over, but before you fully switch into summer mode, there are a few things your future teacher self will be so thankful you did. In this episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, Sara and Emily share 7 end-of-year reflection and reset strategies that can help make next school year feel more organized, intentional, and less overwhelming.Episode Takeaways:Reflect on your favorite moments, lessons, and routines from the school yearIdentify what brought you and your students the most joy and engagementMake a plan to intentionally repeat those successful moments next yearReflect on areas where you wish you had spent more instructional timeAudit and organize your resources—keep what worked and let go of what didn'tClean up and reset your classroom now so you start next year with a clean slateBe intentional about planning a summer that actually helps you rest and rechargeStay connected with us this summer! Visit stellarteacher.com/summer to sign up for our free learning experience starting June 1!

In this episode, Emily shares 3 simple, low-prep literacy moves that still make a big impact at the end of the year (hello increased engagement!). You'll hear practical ideas for:Student-led book talks that build excitement around readingFluency performances that combine comprehension, rereading, and engagementBringing back your favorite read-alouds using a simple 3-2-1 comprehension structureThese ideas are designed to help you add structure back into your literacy block while still enjoying the final weeks with your students.Want a freebie to get started? Grab 5 Book Talk Anchor Charts at stellarteacher.com/freebieGrab our Book Talk Templates + Guide on under $5 at stellarteacher.com/booktalkReady to keep the momentum going this summer? Be sure to sign up for our Summer Learning Series for book study, bonus trainings, and practical literacy support. stellarteacher.com/summer

May can feel exhausting, emotional, and chaotic but it can also be one of the most meaningful months of the school year. In this episode, Tami and Sara are reminder teachers not to miss the magic of May.Sara and Tami talk about the unique opportunities this final stretch of the year brings: stronger student relationships, visible growth, classroom confidence, and the chance to finish with purpose instead of just surviving until summer.In this episode, we discuss:Why May can be a powerful month for teachers and studentsHow to stay present during the final weeks of schoolRecognizing the growth your students have madeReady to keep the momentum going this summer? Be sure to sign up for our Summer Learning Series for book study, bonus trainings, and practical literacy support. stellarteacher.com/summer

As the school year comes to a close, it's easy to feel pressure to squeeze in one more lesson, finish one more project, or check off every remaining standard. But what if finishing strong didn't mean doing more?In this episode, Tami shares three powerful reminders to help you navigate the final weeks of the school year with more clarity, intention, and less overwhelm. From letting go of the pressure to “cover everything” to prioritizing meaningful connections with your students, this conversation will help you shift your focus to what truly matters.In this episode, you'll hear:Why “coverage” doesn't = learningPermission to not finish every project, book, or standardHow to decide what actually matters in the final weeksWant to connect with Tami and other members of the Stellar Team this summer? Don't miss out on The Stellar Teacher Summer Learning series! Register for updates at stellarteacher.com/summer

If teaching feels harder than usual right now, you're not alone—and you're not doing it wrong.In this special

Feeling the pressure to try something new before testing season?In this episode, Emily and 5th grade teacher Meghan share why that instinct might be doing more harm than good. Instead of adding new strategies, they encourage teachers to lean into the routines that are already working. Listen in and walk away with simple ways to strengthen what's already in place (or super easy to implement) — like a sentence writing routine and the 3-2-1 comprehension framework. This episode is your reminder to stay consistent, trust your teaching, and finish the year strong.Still prepping for those BIG tests? Check out our free Test Prep email series! Sign up at stellarteacher.com/testprep and get 3 free lessons straight to your inbox!

Sign up for our FREE test prep email series: stellarteacher.com/testprep! Get 3 free lessons straight to your inbox.If you've ever reached April and wondered why some students still seem to struggle with reading, you're not alone. In this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, we explore a reality many teachers experience during the final months of the school year: student progress in literacy isn't always smooth or predictable.As academic expectations increase in the spring, gaps in decoding, fluency, and foundational reading skills often become more visible. Passages get longer, questions become more complex, and students are expected to apply multiple literacy skills at once.What You'll Hear in This EpisodeWhy literacy growth often feels messy and unpredictableHow increased reading demands expose hidden skill gapsThe role of decoding and fluency in reading successWhy targeted instruction is more effective than wide reviewHow to identify the biggest barrier to student progressP.S. The Stellar Literacy Collective is currently closed for enrollment. But not for long! Join our email list to be the first to know when doors reopen in June 2026. We'll send updates, early access details, and helpful resources straight to your inbox.stellarteacher.com/newsletter

In this episode, Sara and Kori discuss the difference between helpful feedback and noise in teaching. With so many opinions and suggestions coming from evaluations, colleagues, professional development, and social media, it can be difficult for teachers to know which feedback to take seriously and which advice to let go.Sara and Kori share personal experiences with receiving feedback throughout their careers and talk about how teachers can learn to filter input, prioritize what matters most, and focus on feedback that supports meaningful professional growth.In this episode, we discuss:The difference between constructive feedback and noiseHow to identify trustworthy sources of feedbackStrategies for filtering and prioritizing feedbackWhy professional growth is a long-term processPrepping for testing season? The Stellar Teacher Co. is here to help! Visit stellarteacher.com/testprep for 3 free test prep lessons.

What do calm classrooms actually look like? Contrary to what many people think, calm classrooms aren't always silent or perfectly still. Instead, they are spaces where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.In this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, Emily is joined by Stellar Teacher team member Tami to explore what calm classrooms truly have in common. Drawing on her years of experience teaching elementary students in both Department of Defense schools and public schools, Tami shares practical insights into how teachers can create a classroom environment that feels peaceful, organized, and productive.Together, Emily and Tami discuss the foundational elements that help build calm classrooms, including confident leadership, intentional classroom environments, predictable routines, and strong connections with students. They also share simple strategies teachers can use to reduce chaos and create more consistency throughout the school day.Stay connected with us! Follow us on Instagram @thestellarteachercompanyLooking for quick, actionable PD? Visit our YouTube channel!

In this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, Kori shares an encouraging reminder that many educators need to hear — teaching is a long game. When the pressure of testing season, pacing guides, and student progress starts to feel overwhelming, it can be easy to believe that every lesson needs to produce immediate results. But the reality is that meaningful learning rarely happens overnight.If you've ever felt discouraged because progress seems slow, this conversation will remind you that the work you are doing truly matters.In this episode, you'll hear:Why teaching is a long game and why meaningful learning takes timeHow invisible progress builds student understanding over timeWhy exposure to concepts is valuable even when mastery doesn't happen immediatelyEncouragement for teachers navigating testing season pressureTeaching may not always show instant results — but the impact you are making in your students' lives is lasting and meaningful.Stay connected with us! Follow us on Instagram @thestellarteachercompanyLooking for quick, actionable PD? Visit our YouTube channel!

As much as we prepare students with practice passages and strategy review, many performance struggles happen before students even answer a question.When test anxiety sets in, students may skim or skip directions entirely, misread what's being asked, or overlook key details like “not,” “compare,” or “from least to greatest.” In this episode, Sara and Emily discuss why this happens and how teachers can intentionally build direction-reading habits long before test day. They share practical tips and insights to make test season less stressful for both teachers and students.Key Takeaways: Importance of reading test directions carefully (and activity ideas for practice)Strategies to teach students to interpret instructionsBuilding student confidence and reducing anxiety during testsResources Connected to this Episode: Free Test Prep Email Series at www.stellarteacher.com/testprepTest Taking Strategies Bundle on TPTStay connected with us! Follow us on Instagram @thestellarteachercompanyLooking for quick, actionable PD? Visit our YouTube channel!

Standardized testing season is coming — and if you're already feeling the pressure of long testing days, restless students, and review overload, you're not alone.In this Dear Stellar Teacher episode, Sara and Emily share realistic, classroom-tested strategies to help you approach testing season with clarity, confidence, and calm. Instead of cramming more practice into your schedule, this conversation focuses on what actually moves the needle: building stamina, protecting routines, and keeping students regulated and motivated.If you're looking for ways to support your students without overwhelming them (or yourself), this episode will help you rethink what testing season can look like in an upper elementary classroom.Tune into this episode, for takeaways like... how to: Build test stamina gradually to prevent burnout.Treat standardized tests as a genre study to reduce pressure.Make review engaging with themes and rotations.Balance test prep with regular instruction to avoid burnout.Model calmness and positivity to set the tone for students.Resources:Sign up for our free Test Prep Email Series to get 3 classroom-ready lessons that help students slow down, read carefully, and avoid the preventable mistakes that cost them points before they even begin.Read this post to discover 5 practical, classroom-tested strategies you can teach right away to help students approach tests with more confidence, clarity, and purpose.

SummaryIn this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, host Sara Marye discusses the challenges and strategies for teachers dealing with mandated curriculums. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing gaps in the curriculum, enhancing instruction with supplemental resources, focusing on effective teaching methods, and using assessment data to justify changes. The episode provides practical tips for teachers to navigate the constraints of mandated curriculums while still meeting the diverse needs of their students.TakeawaysEvery class has unique needs that may not be met by a standard curriculum.Identifying gaps in the curriculum can provide opportunities for creative teaching.Enhancing instruction with supplemental resources can improve student engagement.Focusing on the 'how' of teaching can be more impactful than the 'what'.Teachers can control how students process their learning even within a rigid curriculum.Using assessment data can help justify changes to the curriculum.It's important to advocate for what works best for students.Teachers should feel empowered to supplement their mandated curriculum.Professional judgment is key in navigating curriculum requirements.Resources:Join The Stellar Literacy CollectiveGet the Stellar Intervention ToolkitSign up for my Private Podcast: Confident Writer Systems SeriesSign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email seriesIf you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!

In this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, hosts Sara Marye and Emily discuss the common struggle of second-guessing oneself in teaching. They explore the impact of self-reflection, perfectionism, and the importance of data in decision-making. The conversation emphasizes strategies to overcome self-doubt, celebrate successes, and the value of team support in the teaching profession.Takeaways: Second-guessing is a common issue among teachers.Self-reflection can lead to healthier decision-making processes.Teachers often struggle with perfectionism and the need to get it right.Failing fast can be beneficial in overcoming self-doubt.Speaking the truth to oneself can help combat negative thoughts.Setting time limits can prevent overthinking in lesson planning.Data can provide evidence of student growth and success.It's important to celebrate successes, no matter how small.Teaching is a collaborative effort and should be treated as a team sport.Bringing others into your decision-making process can alleviate pressure.Resources:Join The Stellar Literacy CollectiveGet the Stellar Intervention ToolkitSign up for my Private Podcast: Confident Writer Systems SeriesSign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email seriesIf you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!

In this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, Sara is joined by a member of the Stellar Teacher Team and they discuss the importance of trusting professional judgment in teaching. They share personal experiences and challenges faced in the classroom, emphasizing the need for teachers to have confidence in their decisions and to advocate for their students' needs. The conversation highlights the significance of reflection, questioning, and sharing experiences among educators to foster a supportive teaching environment.Takeaways:Teachers are allowed to trust their professional judgment.It's common for teachers to feel hesitant to voice their opinions.Every classroom is unique, and teachers know their students best.Teachers should feel empowered to modify curriculum as needed.Sharing both successes and failures can build trust among colleagues.Asking questions can be a safe way to provide pushback.Confidence in teaching comes from taking action and making decisions.Teachers should remind themselves that they are experts in their field.Resources:Join The Stellar Literacy CollectiveGet the Stellar Intervention ToolkitSign up for my Private Podcast: Confident Writer Systems SeriesSign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email seriesIf you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!

In this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, Emily and Tami discuss the pressures teachers face to make every lesson extraordinary. They explore the impact of social media on teacher expectations, the importance of setting realistic reading goals, and the value of establishing routines in the classroom. The conversation emphasizes that not every lesson needs to be perfect, and that building relationships with students is more important than delivering flawless lessons.Key Takeaways:Not every lesson needs to be amazing.Social media creates unrealistic expectations for teachers.Teaching is a marathon, not a sprint.Focus on one key element in lesson planning.Routines help free up mental space for both teachers and students.Learning is cumulative; students will revisit concepts.It's about how you make students feel in the classroom.Set a timer to combat perfectionism in planning.Games can be integrated into routines for engagement.Teachers are doing an amazing job despite challenges.Chapters00:00 Introduction and 03:38 Setting Reading Goals04:39 The Pressure of Perfection in Teaching06:47 Advice for Moving Away from Perfectionism09:34 The Importance of Routines12:39 Engagement Strategies in the Classroom14:02 Lesson Delivery and Student Learning16:13 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for TeachersResources:Join The Stellar Literacy CollectiveGet the Stellar Intervention ToolkitSign up for my Private Podcast: Confident Writer Systems SeriesSign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email seriesIf you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!

In this episode, I'm sharing why I've moved away from setting traditional New Year's resolutions and what has actually helped me create meaningful, sustainable change. Over the years, I realized that rigid goals built around doing more or being more often led to frustration and burnout. What made the biggest difference for me wasn't changing my habits first, but changing how I think and talk to myself. That's when I started choosing a word of the year as a way to anchor my mindset.This year, my word is abundance. Instead of constantly telling myself I don't have enough time, energy, or capacity, I'm intentionally shifting toward believing that I do. That small mindset change has already helped me feel calmer, less reactive, and more present in my work and my life. Abundance isn't about doing more or being busier. It's about viewing my circumstances differently so I can make better, more intentional choices throughout the day.I also invited the Stellar Teacher team to share their words for the year and the mindset shifts they're hoping to create. Words like active, downshift, enough, restore, ease, and unoffendable reflect a shared desire to work and live with more clarity, sustainability, and self-trust. As you head into this year, I invite you to choose one word that grounds you, supports you, and reminds you how you want to feel both in and out of the classroom.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany.To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode288.

In this episode, I'm diving into small group instruction and addressing five common myths that I hear all the time in the teacher space. Small groups often feel like a requirement for being an effective reading teacher, and that belief alone can create a lot of unnecessary pressure. I want to be very clear in this conversation: small group instruction can be incredibly beneficial, but it is not the only way to support student growth. You can still be an effective, thoughtful, and impactful teacher even if small groups don't look the way you think they're “supposed” to look—or if they don't happen at all in certain seasons.Throughout the episode, I break down myths around literacy centers, reading levels, and how often you “should” be meeting with students. I talk about why literacy centers are just one option—not a requirement—and share alternative ways to keep students meaningfully engaged while you work with small groups. I also explain why guided reading is only one type of small group instruction and explore other effective formats like strategy groups, book clubs, and phonics-focused groups that don't require knowing every student's reading level. Most importantly, I emphasize that small groups don't have to happen every day to be worthwhile—even meeting once a week can make a difference.I wrap up the episode by tackling the idea that small group instruction does not have to be overwhelming or time-consuming to plan. I share practical strategies for simplifying your planning, including using a consistent lesson framework, setting limits on prep time, and building routines for student independent work. My goal with this episode is to help you let go of the guilt and pressure surrounding small groups and replace it with clarity and confidence. Small group instruction is a tool—not a mandate—and when you use it intentionally and realistically, it can actually feel manageable and effective.Check out our Small Group Reading Lesson Sets here!Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany.To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode287.

In this first Dear Stellar Teacher episode of 2026, Emily and I are kicking off the new year by talking about something that doesn't get nearly enough attention in education: joy. A new year can bring excitement and fresh goals, but it can also feel heavy when you're returning to the same classroom challenges, schedules, and demands. In this episode, we slow things down and reflect on what it really looks like to bring more joy into the second semester in ways that feel sustainable, meaningful, and realistic for teachers.Throughout our conversation, we share small but powerful mindset shifts and practical ideas that can help teachers rediscover joy in their classrooms and in the profession. We talk about the calming power of classroom routines, the importance of professional satisfaction, and why setting boundaries between work and life matters more than we sometimes realize. We also reflect on joyful classroom moments—like book talks, read alouds, playful routines, and recess connections—and why these experiences often stay with us long after the lesson plans are forgotten.We wrap up the episode by zooming out and talking about joy beyond the classroom. Finding joy at school is deeply connected to how we care for ourselves outside of work, whether that's through hobbies, time outdoors, creative outlets, or meaningful connection. Our hope is that this conversation reminds you that joy doesn't have to be big or complicated—it can come from small, intentional choices that help you reconnect with your students, your work, and yourself. As you head into the second semester, we hope you'll find ways to make space for more joy—for you and for the kids you teach.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Fill out the Dear Stellar Teacher form for a chance to be featured on a future episode.Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany.To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode286.

In this episode, I'm talking all about implementing classroom routines as we head into the second semester. This time of year can feel exciting and overwhelming all at once, especially when we realize we're already halfway through the school year with our students. I share why routines matter so much—particularly in upper elementary—and how they create predictability, calm, and valuable “white space” that allows students to focus their energy on learning instead of figuring out what to do.I walk through a clear, five-step process for teaching routines in a way that actually sticks. We start by getting clear on the routine and its purpose, then explicitly teaching it, modeling it (both the right and wrong way), practicing with feedback, and finally reinforcing and resetting as needed. I explain why slowing down during the implementation phase is so important, even when it feels tedious, and how that upfront investment pays off later with smoother days and a more focused literacy block.I also share encouragement for those moments when routines inevitably break down. Resetting a routine doesn't mean you failed—it means your students need a reminder, more practice, or clearer expectations. With consistency, clarity, and intentional practice, routines will eventually become second nature, helping your classroom run more smoothly and giving you more energy for the parts of teaching you love most. As you head back into your classroom, remember that strong routines aren't built in a day—but they are worth the time it takes to build them well.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany.To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode285.Mentioned in this episode:Join us for the Routine Reset.Learn more about the Stellar Teacher Routine Reset PD Pack and resource deals: stellarteacher.com/reset

In today's episode, I'm sharing one of my favorite ways to bring more purpose, connection, and deeper learning into your literacy block: thematic planning. This approach—sometimes called cross-curricular instruction—was a huge shift for me when I first transitioned to an IB school. Instead of treating reading, writing, science, and social studies as separate silos, I learned how to plan around big ideas and guiding questions that tied all of our learning together. While it took time to adjust, it completely transformed the way my students engaged with content and how meaningful our classroom learning felt.Throughout the episode, I walk you through what thematic planning is, why it's so powerful, and how you can start using it even if your school doesn't require it. I share my personal experience with moving away from isolated, checklist-style instruction and embracing a more integrated, inquiry-driven approach. I also break down the five simple steps to designing your own thematic unit—everything from choosing a strong guiding question, to selecting connected texts, to building background knowledge, to weaving reading and writing standards into meaningful science or social studies learning. My goal is to show you that thematic planning doesn't have to be overwhelming or reserved for specialized programs. It's absolutely doable in any upper elementary classroom.You'll also hear practical examples of what this looks like day to day, ideas for connecting literacy skills to real-world reading and writing, and a reminder that thematic planning is one of the best ways to build students' content knowledge—something we simply don't get enough time for in traditional schedules. Whether you create a week-long mini unit or a full multi-week study, thematic planning opens the door to richer discussions, more engaged readers and writers, and learning that sticks. If you decide to give thematic planning a try, I'd love to hear what topic you choose and how it impacts your students' learning.***This episode is a replay of Episode 119, and it's one worth revisiting as you think about planning for the months ahead.Check out my Nonfiction Science Reading Passages: Focus on Ecosystems, Focus on Biomes, Focus on Heredity.Check out my Sentence Writing Routine resource here!Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode284.Mentioned in this...

In today's episode, I'm unpacking a skill that often gets overlooked in upper elementary but has a huge impact on whether students can read big words with confidence. So many of our students see a long word and immediately freeze or give up, not because they don't want to try, but because they don't have the tools to break the word apart. That's where syllabication comes in. When we intentionally teach students about syllable types and syllable division, we give them the confidence and know-how to tackle long words with accuracy and independence.Throughout the episode, I unpack why syllabication is such an essential part of reading instruction in grades 3–5. I talk through the six syllable types, the foundational vowel sounds students need to understand, and why prompts like “slow down” or “break apart the word” aren't effective unless students actually know how to do those things. I also share several reasons students struggle with multisyllabic words—gaps in early instruction, difficulty applying known rules to longer words, and the increased complexity of upper elementary texts. Most importantly, I focus on how teaching syllabication directly supports fluency, comprehension, and word recognition, and how it complements the work we're already doing with prefixes, suffixes, and roots.Finally, I break down what effective syllable instruction looks like in the classroom: explicit, systematic teaching paired with ongoing practice. I walk you through how to introduce each syllable type, why to start with simple examples, the importance of teaching exceptions, and ways to build in meaningful practice through warmups, small groups, independent reading, and vocabulary routines. My goal in this episode is to help you feel confident bringing syllabication into your classroom—because when students understand how syllables work, they gain a powerful tool for reading big words. And if you're looking for ready-to-use lessons and visuals to support your teaching, be sure to check out the syllable types resource I mentioned at stellarteacher.com/syllables.***This episode is a replay of Episode 121, a listener favorite that continues to help teachers support students with multisyllabic words.Check out my Syllable Types: Lesson Plans & Activities Bundle here!Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode283.

In this episode, I'm kicking off December with a little real talk about this wild stretch between Thanksgiving and winter break—and how we can make it feel a bit lighter. These weeks can be LONG, so I'm sharing encouragement to protect your energy, give yourself permission to slow down a bit, and be more present with the people you love.From there, I dive into the fun stuff: practical ways to incorporate movement into your literacy block so you can keep students engaged, focused, and still learning—even when they're a little squirrely. I walk you through four easy movement routines you can start using right away: “Find Someone Who,” gallery walks, whip arounds, and snowball fights. I explain how each routine works, when to use it, and why taking just a few minutes to get kids up and moving can actually boost attention and comprehension rather than derail your lesson.I also share tips for explicitly teaching and practicing these routines so they feel structured rather than chaotic—think modeling expectations, practicing the movement without content first, and using visual reminders like slides or anchor charts. Whether you're looking for simple ways to review content, build in brain breaks that are still connected to instruction, or just survive these last few weeks with a little more joy, this episode will give you low-prep, high-engagement ideas you can use between now and winter break (and then again when you're back in January!).***This episode is a replay of Episode 111. While a few details may have shifted or changed since it first aired, the ideas and movement routines are still just as relevant and ready for you to use in your classroom.Check out our engagement routines teaching slides: stellarteacher.com/movementJoin us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode282.

In today's episode, I'm diving into a small but mighty part of literacy instruction that has a huge impact on your students' reading and writing success—the sentence. For years in my own classroom, I didn't give sentence-level work nearly enough attention, even though sentences are at the heart of everything students read and write. If you've ever wondered how to strengthen your students' writing, boost their comprehension, or make your literacy instruction more effective, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on why focusing on sentences matters so much.I'm sharing five key reasons why sentence-level work is an essential part of upper elementary literacy instruction. Strong sentences are the foundation of all writing—whether students are crafting paragraphs, essays, summaries, or responses to reading, their success depends on their ability to write clear, complete, and detailed sentences. At the same time, understanding sentence structure is crucial for comprehension. When students understand how phrases and clauses work together, they are better equipped to make meaning from the increasingly complex texts they encounter. Plus, sentence-level work is manageable for students and teachers, it's one of the most effective ways to teach grammar, and it benefits all learners—those who struggle and those who are already confident writers.My hope is that this episode inspires you to slow down and give sentence-level writing the time and intention it deserves. Prioritizing sentences can transform your writing instruction, strengthen your students' reading comprehension, and make your overall literacy block more effective and more manageable. Whether you're looking for a place to start or simply need a reminder that small shifts can lead to big growth, this episode will give you practical insight into why every upper elementary teacher should be spending more time on sentences.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode281.

As we head into Thanksgiving week, I know things can start to feel a little chaotic. Schedules are disjointed, students are distracted, and you're probably juggling classroom responsibilities with holiday prep, travel plans, or hosting duties. It's a lot—and it's easy to feel the pressure to keep pushing through. But this week's episode is your gentle reminder that it's okay to pause, slow down, and give yourself permission to do less.In this short and heartfelt episode, I'm encouraging you to shift your focus from productivity to connection. Instead of cramming in one more lesson or assessment, think about what it might look like to create a calm and cozy classroom space. Read a picture book just for fun, play a simple vocabulary game, have your students free write about something joyful, or do a quick classroom reset together. These activities may look different from your usual plans, but they're still deeply valuable—they help your students feel grounded, connected, and ready to return after Thanksgiving break with a clear mind.So if you needed a little permission slip this week, this is it. Doing less doesn't mean you're falling behind—it means you're protecting your energy and caring for your students in a meaningful way. You're already doing enough, and the best thing you can give yourself (and your class) this Thanksgiving week is a moment to rest and recharge. Tune in for a little encouragement and a reminder that slowing down is sometimes the most productive thing you can do.Purchase our Thanksgiving Themed Literacy Resource, or our Seasonal Literacy Bundle.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode280.

There are so many times as teachers when we realize we're the ones doing all the heavy lifting during our lessons—talking, thinking, and writing—while our students sit back and watch. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. Student engagement isn't something that happens automatically, even with a great lesson plan. In this episode, I'm unpacking what it really means to plan for engagement and why it's essential to build intentional opportunities for students to think, respond, and connect throughout every lesson.I share a handful of simple engagement routines that can transform the way your students interact with your lessons. These routines—like the classic think-pair-share, agree/disagree statements, two-sentence responses, and three-two-one reflections—don't require fancy materials or major prep. Instead, they're flexible structures that you can use in any subject to spark thinking, encourage participation, and give every student a voice in your classroom.By the end of this episode, you'll see how easy it can be to plan for engagement and keep your students actively involved all lesson long. My challenge for you this week is to choose one engagement routine and try it out. Start small, stay intentional, and watch how your students' focus, confidence, and comprehension grow. Click play to discover how small, intentional changes can make a big difference in how your students show up and engage during lessons.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode278.Mentioned in this episode:Sign up for our FREE Supporting Struggling Readers workshop: stellarteacher.com/workshop

If you've ever wrapped up what felt like a perfectly modeled lesson only to see blank stares when your students try it on their own, you're not alone. You know the moment: you've explained, demonstrated, and thought aloud, but when it's their turn, they freeze. The problem often isn't the modeling itself—it's that students need more support between watching and doing. That's where effective scaffolding comes in.In this episode, I break down the four key steps of scaffolding—modeling, approximating, fading away, and independent learning—and share why each one matters. You'll learn how these steps help students internalize new skills rather than just imitate what they see, and how skipping a single phase can lead to confusion or frustration. When we add in those middle scaffolds, we create the structure students need to build true confidence and independence.Ultimately, scaffolding is about slowing down the learning process just enough so that all students have the chance to succeed. When we give them the right amount of support—and remove it at the right time—we set them up for meaningful growth and long-term learning. This episode will help you reflect on your own scaffolding practices and feel confident making small, intentional shifts that lead to big results.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode278.

In this episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, I'm diving into one of the most important and challenging comprehension skills we can teach our students—summarizing. If you've ever had students freeze when asked to write a summary or retell every single detail of a story, you're not alone. Summarizing requires students to synthesize, prioritize, and organize information while expressing it in their own words. It's a higher-level skill that takes time to develop, but it's also one of the most powerful ways to boost reading comprehension.I'll walk you through three simple and effective summarizing frames you can introduce in your classroom this week. We'll look at how the Somebody, Wanted, But, So, Then (SWBST) frame helps students capture the plot of a fiction text, how the TAMKO frame guides nonfiction summaries, and why the 10-Word Summary is a flexible, engaging way to help students identify what matters most. Each of these frames provides the structure students need to confidently summarize without getting overwhelmed—and over time, they'll learn to do it independently.If your students struggle to write clear, concise summaries, this episode is for you. You'll learn how to model and scaffold each of these frames so students can see what an effective summary looks like. Plus, I share tips for deciding which frame to use, how to help students transition beyond them, and ways to make summarizing an engaging, low-stress part of your literacy routine.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode277.

In this episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, I'm sharing a simple, effective five-day routine to help upper elementary students who are struggling with reading. I know how overwhelming it can feel to support students who are behind while still teaching grade-level content, so my goal is to give you a strategy that's easy to implement and takes just 15 minutes a day. I walk through why intervention is so challenging in upper elementary, and why many traditional resources don't meet the needs of third-, fourth-, and fifth-grade students who still need phonics, decoding, and phonemic awareness support.I break down each day of the five-day routine, showing you exactly what to do: from introducing a weekly sound-spelling pattern, practicing phonics with activities like “tap it, map it, graph it,” building fluency through reading words, phrases, and sentences, to applying skills in decodable texts and finishing with spelling and fun games. This routine is structured yet flexible, allowing you to pull small groups, work with your whole class, or adapt it to your schedule. I also share how to make these lessons engaging for upper elementary students so they stay motivated and build confidence with big words and tricky spelling patterns.Finally, I talk about resources and tools that make this routine even easier, including the Stellar Reading Intervention Toolkit. This ready-to-use toolkit follows the five-day framework and includes everything you need—word lists, activities, decodable texts, comprehension questions, and follow-ups—so you can start teaching right away without the stress of planning from scratch. I challenge you to pick one sound-spelling pattern this week and give the routine a try. Even small steps can make a huge difference in helping your students catch up, gain confidence, and become successful readers.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode276.

In this episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, I share a simple but powerful strategy to help students activate background knowledge before reading: agree or disagree statements. This quick, low-prep approach gets students thinking critically, talking about the topic, and reflecting on their own understanding. By engaging students in this way, you can boost comprehension and spark curiosity before they even open the text.I walk through why activating background knowledge is essential for comprehension and how the ABC model from The Reading Comprehension Blueprint can guide your instruction. You'll learn how to craft statements that are tied to your text, spark discussion, and reveal what your students already know—or what they might need to learn. I also provide examples from lessons I've used in the classroom, showing how even a short discussion can uncover misconceptions and build a foundation for understanding.Finally, I give practical tips for creating your own agree or disagree prompts, including how to make them clear, thought-provoking, and connected to the core ideas of your text. We talk about follow-up discussion strategies and how to help students revisit their responses after reading to reinforce learning. This episode is packed with ideas that are easy to implement right away and can make a big impact on student engagement and comprehension.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode275.

In this episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, I share a practical, step-by-step strategy to help upper elementary students tackle multi-syllabic words with confidence. I talk about the challenges students face when they see long, unfamiliar words, why simple prompts like “sound it out” often don't work, and how we can give students the tools they need to break words into manageable parts. This episode is for teachers who want actionable strategies they can introduce in their classroom right away.I walk listeners through the Big Words Strategy, a five-step approach that helps students identify prefixes, suffixes, roots, vowels, and syllables before putting the word together and pronouncing it. I explain how this strategy builds decoding skills while also supporting comprehension and vocabulary development. I also share tips for modeling the strategy effectively, providing guided practice, and supporting students who might not have a strong background in phonics or word study.We also cover common roadblocks you might encounter when teaching this strategy and practical solutions to keep students on track, including slowing down the pace, using color-coded tools, and pairing students for peer feedback. I emphasize the importance of repeated practice, approximation, and consistent reinforcement to help students feel confident with complex words. This episode gives you a research-backed, easy-to-implement strategy that strengthens reading skills, supports fluency, and empowers your students to tackle big words independently.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode274.Mentioned in this episode:Unlocking Comprehension WorkshopRegister to attend our Unlocking Comprehension Workshop: https://learn.stellarteacher.com/comprehension-webinar (Or go to stellarteacher.com/workshop)

In this episode of Dear Stellar Teacher, Emily and I dive into the world of novel studies for upper elementary classrooms. We share some of our favorite books and highlight strategies that make reading engaging while supporting comprehension and skill development.We cover how to plan and structure your novel study, including pre-reading activities, targeted vocabulary instruction, and highlighting important syntax. We also discuss the benefits of building related text sets and incorporating multiple genres into your novel study. Plus, we explain how the 3-2-1 reading routine and writing about reading can help students retain and reflect on what they read.Finally, we provide practical tips for keeping novel studies manageable without getting bogged down in every detail of the text. From assessing in smaller sections to integrating reflection and projects, this episode offers a framework for designing a novel study that fosters a love of reading, strengthens comprehension, and supports writing growth in your classroom.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Fill out the Dear Stellar Teacher form for a chance to be featured on a future episode.Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode273.Mentioned in this episode:Unlocking Comprehension WorkshopRegister to attend our Unlocking Comprehension Workshop: https://learn.stellarteacher.com/comprehension-webinar Or go to stellarteacher.com/workshop

In this episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, I dive into a critical topic for upper elementary classrooms: supporting multilingual learners (MLLs). With the help of experts Dr. Jana Echevarría and Dr. Jeannette Mancilla-Martinez, we explore why the term “multilingual learner” is replacing “English language learner,” how to challenge common misconceptions, and why it's so important to recognize the linguistic assets students bring to our classrooms. You'll gain a clear understanding of the difference between everyday language and academic language, and why focusing on both is essential for our students' success.We also tackle the myth that students need to fully master English before they can access grade-level content. I talk with Jana and Jeanette about research showing that, with intentional support and meaningful instruction, MLLs can engage with the same literacy and content skills as their peers. From understanding the role of academic language as a “gate opener” to strategies for integrating language objectives into everyday lessons, this episode is full of practical ideas you can bring right into your classroom.Finally, the conversation turns to actionable strategies teachers can implement immediately. From leveraging students' background experiences to integrating listening, speaking, reading, and writing into content lessons, Jana and Jeanette highlight simple yet powerful ways to support language development across disciplines. This episode is packed with guidance to help you feel confident, intentional, and empowered to meet the needs of multilingual learners—reminding us all that these students are learners just like everyone else.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode272.

Being an elementary teacher, you know how important read-alouds are in your classroom. They offer many benefits, from fostering a love of literacy to connecting students with real-life events and situations. However, getting the most out of them can be challenging. Here are three tips you can use to maximize your read-alouds this school year.If you're anything like me, you may have been incorporating read-alouds into your daily routine without feeling confident in their full impact. That's when I started using specific strategies to make my read-alouds more intentional. Each of these three tips helps students see that literacy goes beyond the classroom, exposes them to new interests, and shows how reading can be truly enjoyable.Reading is essential, and reading aloud to your students is even more powerful. Read-alouds help build a community of readers and learners while offering countless other benefits. Instead of going through the motions, use these three tips to make your read-alouds more intentional and impactful this year.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode271.

Writing is one of the most complex skills our students will ever learn—and one that is often overlooked. In this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, I'm joined by two of the leading experts in writing instruction: Dr. Steven Graham and Dr. Karen Harris. Steven has spent more than 40 years studying how students learn to write, while Karen developed the Self-Regulated Strategy Development (SRSD) model, one of the most widely used and researched approaches to teaching writing. Together, they share valuable insights into what makes writing instruction so challenging and how teachers can provide explicit, systematic writing instruction that really works.During our conversation, we dig into the many complexities of writing—everything from idea generation and sentence construction to transcription skills, motivation, and self-regulation. Steven and Karen also unpack what it means to use evidence-based practices in writing instruction and help us distinguish between strategies that truly make a difference and those that fall short. Their insights are especially helpful for teachers in upper elementary who often face limited time for writing and wonder how to make the most of the minutes they do have.You'll walk away from this episode with practical guidance you can apply right away, whether it's structuring short but consistent writing blocks, integrating writing into reading and content areas, or helping students set goals and monitor their own progress. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by teaching writing, this conversation will give you clarity, encouragement, and research-backed strategies to strengthen your writing instruction.Join us in the Stellar Literacy Collective Membership: stellarteacher.com/join!Sign up for my FREE private podcast, the Confident Writer Systems Series, here!Sign up for my FREE Revision Made Easy email series here!Follow me on Instagram @thestellarteachercompany. To check out all of the resources from this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.stellarteacher.com/episode270.Mentioned in this episode:Supporting Struggling Readers WorkshopClick the link below to register for our FREE workshop on supporting struggling readers in upper elementary.