The Role of Digital and Physical Libraries in Modern Literacy Instruction

In this episode, host Jeff Pendleton sits down with Josh Aston, Director of Secondary Curriculum at Atascadero Unified School District in California, to explore what it takes to foster literacy in today’s evolving educational landscape. Josh shares his journey from small-town Idaho social studies teacher to curriculum director on the California coast, and how his diverse experience offers a unique lens on literacy across multiple subjects—not just English Language Arts.

Together, Jeff and Josh dive into the importance of cross-curricular collaboration, tackling literacy challenges in secondary schools, and how comprehension and critical thinking are at the heart of deeper learning. They also discuss strategies for supporting students who need additional help with foundational skills like phonics, the role of both physical and digital libraries, and the complexities of implementing new curriculum and AI tools in the classroom.

Tune in for real-world insights, practical approaches, and a thoughtful look at how educators are working to bridge learning gaps and empower students for success—no matter what the future brings.

Key Moments

05:19 "Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration in Education"

08:18 Deeper Learning and Knowledge Transfer

09:29 "District Focuses on Literacy Development"

13:54 Enhancing Curriculum with Language Support

16:12 New Curriculum and ELL Support

19:48 AI in Education: Embrace or Resist?

23:16 AI Future: Excitement and Apprehension

Why You’ll Love This Episode

Josh Aston, Director of Secondary Curriculum at Atascadero Unified brings a fresh, real-world lens to literacy in secondary education. With roots in social studies and a passion for cross-curricular collaboration, Josh shares how his district is tackling literacy gaps post-pandemic through smart curriculum adoption, in-class interventions, and a focus on comprehension and transfer-level learning.

You'll hear practical strategies for supporting struggling readers in grades 6–12, the role of digital tools (and physical books), and a thoughtful take on how AI is reshaping the classroom. It’s a candid, insightful conversation that reminds us: literacy is everyone’s job—and the right tools make all the difference.

Connect with Josh Aston:

• Website: https://www.atasusd.org/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-aston-aa609890
  
  

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/
  
  

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Literacy Mindset and leave us a review!

Share this episode with educators, administrators, and advocates who are passionate about improving literacy and student success.