What if the data you’re collecting could actually make your teaching easier—not more overwhelming? In this episode, we unpack what reading assessment is really telling you and how to use it with clarity and purpose.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The true purpose of different types of reading assessments
• How to move from data collection to meaningful instructional decisions

Assessment can feel like one more thing on a teacher’s already full plate—but when used well, it becomes one of the most powerful tools for improving student outcomes. In this conversation, we explore common misconceptions about assessment, including the belief that one test can tell the whole story, and why understanding the why behind assessment matters just as much as the data itself.

Our guests share practical insights on how assessment should function within a larger system—supporting both classroom instruction and schoolwide decision-making. From listening to students read aloud to interpreting screening and diagnostic data, this episode highlights what it looks like when assessment and instruction truly work together.

Guests:

• Andrea Setmeyer, School Psychologist & Professional Learning Director (and now Vice President of Marketing), The Reading League
• Elisabeth Lamoureaux, Professional Learning Director (Leadership & Implementation), The Reading League

Show Notes
Learn more about The Reading League Summit and resources on assessment:

The Reading League Summit

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What happens when you bring together thousands of literacy educators for one powerful conference? In this episode, we break down the biggest takeaways you can actually use in your classroom tomorrow.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Key insights from the Plain Talk About Literacy and Learning Conference
• Practical strategies for spelling, syntax, writing, and student engagement

Show Notes

In this conference rewind episode, Lindsay reports back from Plain Talk, sharing standout moments from keynotes and sessions—including ideas around academic risk-taking, meaningful task design, and the importance of intentional family engagement. The conversation highlights how creating safe conditions for learning can empower students to take risks and build confidence.

You’ll also hear practical, classroom-ready strategies for improving syntax and writing instruction, along with fresh thinking on spelling and language development. Plus, the team reflects on how to evaluate instructional practices (and even conference ideas) with a critical eye—always grounding decisions in what truly leads to student learning.

Whether you attended Plain Talk or not, this episode brings you actionable insights and thought-provoking takeaways to strengthen your literacy instruction.

Resources mentioned:

Plain Talk About Literacy and Learning Conference

Literacy Talks Episode with Dr. Grant Rivera

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Coming Soon: Reading Horizons Ascend™
From Pre-K readiness to advanced fluency, Ascend™ offers a consistent, needs-based reading experience across every grade, tier, and model—so every student can build mastery, one skill at a time. Learn More.

What does it take to turn frustration into a nationwide movement? In this episode, Dr. Maria Murray shares the powerful story behind The Reading League—and how one idea grew into a force for literacy change.

Show Notes

In this episode, we discuss:

• The gap between reading research and classroom practice
• How The Reading League grew from a local effort to a national organization

Dr. Maria Murray takes us on a candid and inspiring journey from her early experiences in reading research to the creation of The Reading League. Confronted with the reality that evidence-based practices weren’t reaching classrooms, Maria set out to bridge the divide between research and educators—what she calls being a “knowledge broker.” What began as a small group of passionate educators quickly grew into a national movement dedicated to advancing the awareness, understanding, and use of the science of reading.

Along the way, Maria shares the challenges of leading systems change, the importance of building community, and why no one should feel alone in this work. From conferences and state chapters to innovative initiatives like Reading Buddies, The Reading League continues to expand its impact—bringing educators together and moving the field closer to a future where all students can read.

Guest: Dr. Maria Murray, Founder and CEO of The Reading League

Resources Mentioned:

The Reading League

Watch on YouTube

💬 Want more insights like this?
Subscribe to the Literacy Talks Podcast Digest for episode recaps, resources, and teaching takeaways delivered straight to your inbox!

Do you teach Structured Literacy in a K–3 setting?
Sign up for a free license of Reading Horizons Discovery® LIVE and start teaching right away—no setup, no hassle. Sign-up Now.

Coming Soon: Reading Horizons Ascend™
From Pre-K readiness to advanced fluency, Ascend™ offers a consistent, needs-based reading experience across every grade, tier, and model—so every student can build mastery, one skill at a time. Learn More.