Creating Cohesion and Innovation in Literacy Instruction at Soledad USD

In this episode of The Literacy Mindset Podcast, Jeff Pendleton chats with Carrie Sebora, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Soledad USD, about the power of building strong systems to support both teachers and students. Sebora shares her experiences working alongside educators to implement structured literacy practices, highlighting the importance of professional learning communities, coaching cycles, and collaborative goal setting. She emphasizes how consistent, research-based instruction paired with intentional teacher support can close gaps and drive student achievement in meaningful ways.

Carrie also opens up about the realities teachers face—time constraints, shifting mandates, and the challenge of balancing data with authentic student needs. Through practical strategies and candid insights, she explains how schools can strengthen their literacy culture without overwhelming staff. From tips on fostering teacher confidence to examples of successful schoolwide initiatives, Sebora brings a grounded, hopeful perspective on what it takes to move literacy forward.

Key Moments

03:45 Bridging Elementary and Secondary Education

09:01 Collaborative Educational Strategy Sessions

11:46 Unified Educational Standards Initiative

16:43 Assessing Data Needs for CIA Programs

20:21 Reading Comprehension vs. Fluency Issues

23:04 Improving Literacy Through Early Interventions

26:38 California Bans Cell Phones in Schools

30:17 "Collaboration and AI in Education"

31:25 Education Funding and Special Populations Concerns

Why You’ll Love This Episode

If you’re looking for realistic, actionable ways to elevate literacy instruction, this conversation is packed with value. Carrie Sebora’s thoughtful balance of instructional rigor and teacher empathy makes her insights especially relevant for coaches, administrators, and classroom teachers alike. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how to create systems that empower educators, sustain momentum, and most importantly, help students become stronger, more confident readers.

Connect with Carrie Sebora

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-sebora-9449a282

Follow & Subscribe

Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-williams-624a1485

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation

Company Website: http://MindPlay.com

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