From Data to Direction: A Principal’s Journey

In this episode of All For Literacy, host Kerri Larkin sits down with Maggi Lambert, principal of Cloud Peak Elementary in Buffalo, Wyoming. Together, they unpack how a rural school community transformed its approach to literacy—moving from one-size-fits-all interventions to a dynamic, data-driven, and collaborative model that empowers every educator and student.

Maggi shares her journey from classroom teacher to principal, the pivotal role of professional learning, and how including paraprofessionals and using data as a tool (not a weapon) led to measurable student growth. If you’re a school leader, teacher, or literacy advocate, this episode is packed with actionable insights and hope.

00:00 – Welcome & The Power of One

01:28 – Community & Collaboration

03:15 – Maggi’s Journey: Teacher to Principal

07:25 – The Catalyst for Change: Data & Discomfort

12:07 – From Intervention to Prevention

15:27 – Collaboration & Professional Learning

18:04 – Data as a Tool, Not a Weapon

21:57 – Student Impact & Results

37:53 – Advice for School Leaders

45:08 – Maggi’s Reading Stack

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