The Art of Connection: Whole Child Strategies for Literacy with Dr. Precios Armstrong

In this episode, your host, Jeff Pendleton, sits down with Dr. Precios Armstrong, Director of Special Education at East Lansing Public Schools, to dig deep into what it really takes to help students become successful readers. Dr. Armstrong shares her unique journey from aspiring attorney to passionate educator and offers a wealth of insights on building strong literacy foundations for every child, no matter their starting point.

Together, they discuss why learning to read can be such a challenge, the importance of explicit, evidence-based instruction, and how educators can blend core teaching with targeted interventions to meet diverse student needs. Dr. Armstrong also emphasizes the significance of seeing and supporting the whole child, building meaningful connections, and creatively leveraging resources even in tough funding environments.

Whether you’re an education leader, teacher, or someone curious about driving real literacy growth, this conversation is packed with practical strategies and forward-thinking perspectives you won’t want to miss.

Key Moments
03:57 "Reading Transition Challenges in Early Grades"
09:50 "Fostering Student Connections and Engagement"
13:18 "Evidence-Based Teaching Practices"
17:04 Universal Design & Tiered Instruction
21:06 Tailored Educational Approaches for Children
22:14 Gamified Learning Success
26:06 Reimagining Educational Roles and Resources
29:06 Future Outlook: Predictions & Changes
31:49 Collaborative Potential Celebrated

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
Be inspired by Dr. Precios Armstrong’s passion for whole-child education rooted in her unique journey from aspiring attorney to special education leader and professor, shaping learning through empathy, expertise, and advocacy.

Discover how she blends evidence-based literacy strategies with meaningful student connection, emphasizing direct instruction, data-informed decision-making, and the science of reading to meet every learner where they are.

Learn how Dr. Armstrong uses MTSS and intervention models to drive reading success, reimagining roles, embracing digital tools, and leveraging teacher strengths to close skill gaps and accelerate growth.

Gain insight into navigating funding challenges, building strong vendor partnerships, and empowering teachers and students alike alongside a hopeful vision where equity, intentionality, and capacity-building lead the way forward.

Connect with Dr. Precios Armstrong
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-precios-armstrong-a8441326/
Website: https://elps.us/

Follow Us On
Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation/
Company Website: https://mindplay.com/

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