Oklahoma Edition: Empowering Middle School Literacy Through Creativity and Community

In this special Oklahoma Edition of The Literacy Mindset Podcast, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Blaine Wise, Principal of Glenpool Middle School in Oklahoma, to explore how passion-driven leadership and creative collaboration are driving real results in student literacy. Wise shares his personal journey from social studies teacher to principal and how his deep roots in the Glenpool community shape his student-centered leadership approach.

At Glenpool Middle School, reading success is nurtured through a blend of RTI strategies, creative literacy initiatives, and collaborative PLCs. From vocabulary walls to reading competitions featuring the school’s beloved therapy dog, Wise offers practical, heart-filled insight into how his team fosters literacy in engaging and innovative ways.

He also reflects on balancing data and empathy, building a school culture rooted in trust, and empowering teachers to think boldly. This episode offers valuable takeaways for educators, administrators, and anyone passionate about literacy and community-driven leadership.

Key Moments

04:16 Inspiring Kids to Read

08:27 Addressing Learning Gaps with RTI

13:00 Passion Over Data in Education

16:41 District Trust and Collaborative Leadership

18:17 Pedagogy and Budget in Education

20:52 Highlighting Positive School Achievements

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

• Literacy Beyond ELA – Learn how foundational reading skills impact all subjects and how one school addresses gaps in 7th and 8th grade.
• Creative Engagement – Discover how dogs, wall art, and trophies are making reading fun and visible.
• RTI with Heart – See how Glenpool leverages RTI time with thoughtful grouping and foundational skills focus.
• Teacher Empowerment – Hear how school leadership encourages innovation and supports professional learning.
• Optimism in Education – Wise’s vision is a hopeful reminder of the good happening inside school buildings across the country.

Connect with Blaine Wise

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaine-wise-ba0476241

Website: https://www.glenpoolps.org/

Follow & Subscribe

Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/

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

Company Website: http://MindPlay.com

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