Science of Reading: Addressing Multilingual Learners' Literacy Needs

In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Benjamin Zulauf, Director of Literacy at Cicero School District 99 in Illinois, to discuss how strategic leadership, professional development, and a commitment to research-backed literacy practices are transforming education.

Ben shares his unconventional journey into education, the challenges of uniting different pedagogical philosophies, and the steps Cicero has taken to improve literacy outcomes—nearly tripling student proficiency in just a few years. He also dives into the importance of professional learning, multilingual literacy instruction, and how his district has embraced structured literacy to drive measurable success.

If you're an educator, administrator, or literacy advocate looking for real-world insights on driving systemic change, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways on curriculum adoption, intervention strategies, and the future of literacy instruction.

Key Moments

05:30 Internal Debates on Reading Strategy

08:07 "Initiating District-Wide Training Program"

12:02 Science of Reading Debate Misunderstood

16:00 Ensuring Effective Student Readiness

19:36 District Develops Internal Literacy Program

22:52 Language vs. Reading Intervention Debate

25:47 Accelerating Foundational Learning Skills

30:23 Implementing Integrity in Education

33:10 Prioritize Teacher Prep Over EdTech

Why You’ll Love This Episode

• Practical Literacy Leadership – Learn how Ben Zulauf and his team transformed a fragmented literacy approach into a structured, research-driven program.
• Actionable Strategies – Gain insights into professional development, structured literacy, and intervention strategies that have made a measurable impact.
• Multilingual Literacy Insights – Discover how Cicero School District is supporting English learners while improving Spanish literacy at an accelerated pace.
• A Fresh Perspective on EdTech – Ben shares his candid thoughts on the role (and limitations) of technology in literacy instruction.
• Real Success Stories – From professional learning communities to district-wide literacy symposiums, hear how Cicero is fostering sustainable change.

Connect with Benjamin Zulauf

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-zulauf-968627160/

Website: https://www.cicd99.edu/

Follow & Subscribe

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

Enjoyed this episode?
Subscribe to The Literacy Mindset Podcast and leave us a review!
Share this episode with educators, district leaders, and literacy advocates who are passionate about student success.