School Stories: A Co-Teaching Duo Bridging the Gap in Reading - Ep 7
🎙️ Who's on the Mic?
I'm chatting with Jennifer Johnson and Shana Bolen, co-teachers in a third-grade ICT classroom in Gowanda, New York. Jen, a special education veteran, and Shana, a general education teacher, have a combined 47 years of experience. This is their first year co-teaching together, but their collaborative spirit is a game-changer for their students. They've been instrumental in developing their school's full-day co-teaching model and have a deep commitment to literacy. Jen, an admitted "data guru," and Shana, who is embracing new tech, are a living example of how a people-driven approach to data can transform a classroom.
💬 Episode Snapshot
This conversation was a masterclass in making data practical, personal, and profoundly impactful. Jen and Shana revealed how their school's journey with data began around 2010 when they were placed on a quality improvement plan (QIP) due to low reading scores. Instead of being a punitive "gotcha" moment, this became a transformative experience. They were introduced to an Orton-Gillingham based phonics program, and both admitted that their initial skepticism gave way to mind-blowing success once they saw the tangible results with their students.
What struck me most was their holistic approach. They don't just use one type of data; they use a mix of formal and informal assessments, like their PDSA (phonics diagnostic survey assessment) to form "gap" groups, and a weekly oral reading fluency check to track progress. They even use simple tallies and smiley faces to track IEP goals, proving that data collection doesn't have to be complicated. The most inspiring part? They share this data directly with their students, who get so excited to "climb the mountain" and beat their highest score, ringing a bell to celebrate their progress. This isn't just about numbers; it's about building confidence and fostering a sense of ownership over their own learning journey. It's a game-changer.
💡 Key Takeaways
From "Data Trauma" to "Data Triumph": A "quality improvement plan" can be a wake-up call, but it's the right support and an effective program that turns it into a positive experience. The key is to see data as a tool for understanding and instruction, not just accountability.
Data Informs, It Doesn't Define: Jen and Shana emphasized that a well-rounded data approach includes both diagnostic and daily, formative data. This holistic view helps teachers see the "whole child," not just a single score.
The Power of Foundational Skills: A well-structured phonics program, like the one they use, can have a ripple effect, dramatically improving reading scores and even state test results, showing the immense value of explicit instruction.
Collaboration is Key: As co-teachers, Jen and Shana highlight that their strong relationship is 90% of the co-teaching model. Their ability to plan, grade, and communicate with parents as a united front ensures a consistent and supportive learning environment for their students.
Student Ownership is Everything: By involving students in their own data tracking, from weekly fluency scores to trimester growth graphs, they transform the process into a fun, motivating game. This builds confidence and makes the data feel personal and empowering.
🎬 Actionable Insights
Simplify Your Data Collection: Don't let a fear of complex spreadsheets stop you. Use simple tools like tallies, smiley faces, or a quick Google Form to collect daily, formative data that informs your instruction.
Connect Data to the "Why": As Jen and Shana did with their students, always connect data to the bigger goal. Frame assessments as "superpowers" that help them read a book they love, not just a test they have to take.
Prioritize Practice Time: Inspired by their analogies of sports practice and learning to ride a bike, dedicate specific, protected time for students to practice the skills they learn. This is what solidifies new knowledge and leads to real growth.
Make Data Visible & Celebratory: Find ways to make student progress visible in the classroom. Whether it's a sticker chart, a growth graph, or ringing a bell for big wins, celebrate the journey to keep motivation high.
Find Your Data Partner: Whether it's a co-teacher, a colleague in your building, or a mentor, find someone to brainstorm with. Collaboration is the key to seeing new perspectives and turning challenges into puzzles you can solve together.
Connect with Jennifer Johnson
Email: jjohnson3339.jj@gmail.com
Learn more about Logic at www.logicreading.com
Literacy through Orton Gill for Improved Competency
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