The most powerful learning moments in every classroom don’t start with instructional content–they start with connection. For children, learning does not take place in isolation—it happens in the context of relationships. This session explores how secure relationships and stable environments create the conditions students need to engage, persist, and learn, especially during literacy instruction. Drawing on research that shows emotional regulation is shared between teachers and students, educators examine how predictability, trust, and adult regulation can help to shape classroom climate. Through reflection and practical strategies, participants learn how intentional routines, relational practices, and environmental stability support both student learning and teacher capacity.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
• Follow us on Social Media
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
• Follow us on Social Media
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
• Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here!

The webinar recording can be accessed here.

Every teacher has seen it—a student who can’t focus, can’t follow, or can’t find calm enough to learn—no matter how strong the instruction. This edWeb podcast introduces the concept of learning readiness through regulation—how emotional, cognitive, and relational factors shape students’ capacity to access and retain foundational literacy skills.

We explore how regulation is the bridge between ability and achievement, and how teachers can weave readiness practices into daily instruction without adding more to their plates. By connecting the Science of Reading with the Science of Learning, educators discover practical ways to create calm, connected, and learning-ready classrooms where every child can thrive.

Join Kai-leé Berke, educator and early learning leader, Dr. Diane Davison King-Shaw, Clinical Director of the Lourie Center School and expert in trauma-informed education, and Heather Minter, Resilient Learning and Well-Being Consultant, who translate these ideas into practical classroom strategies. Moderated by Marjorie Bottari, this conversation helps educators understand how readiness and regulation unlock every student’s potential—transforming not just how we teach, but how students experience learning.

Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
• Follow us on Social Media
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
• Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here!

In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with a nationally recognized educator and literacy expert to explore the true foundations of reading success. They discuss the critical role of oral language, the science behind reading development, and how educators can take actionable steps to support every child’s learning journey. From early intervention to innovative leadership practices, this conversation highlights the impact of curiosity, collaboration, and knowledge in shaping literacy outcomes.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
• Follow us on Social Media
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
• Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here!

In this episode of Literacy Lunch Break, we are joined by Alvin Irby, educator, social entrepreneur, and founder of Barbershop Books, for a powerful conversation on advancing literacy equity. Drawing from his experience as a teacher and national thought leader, Alvin shares how his journey shaped a deep commitment to making reading accessible and joyful for all children. We explore the systemic barriers that impact underserved communities, the importance of cultural relevance in the classroom, and practical strategies educators can use to create more inclusive, affirming literacy experiences. Tune in for an inspiring and thought-provoking dialogue that challenges the status quo and uplifts the voices of young readers everywhere.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
• Follow us on Social Media
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
• Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here!

In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari talks with Dr. Katie Pace Miles, known for her research on high-frequency words and orthographic mapping, about her powerful work with the CUNY Reading Corps. Katie shares how the program, born during COVID, now provides high-impact tutoring to thousands of New York City students while transforming preservice teacher training. Together, they discuss why one-on-one structured literacy support is essential, how tutoring can scale through innovative university partnerships, and the vital role of human connection in helping striving readers thrive. Katie also highlights how educators and universities can access free, research-based resources through the Reading Institute.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
• Follow us on Social Media
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
• Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here!

In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with Dr. Lori Hernandez, Director of Teaching and Learning in Newport Mesa School District. Dr. Hernandez shares how her team has created a district-wide culture of literacy that supports every learner, from newcomers and English learners to students in Title I and non-Title I schools. She discusses the district’s strategic rollout of phonemic awareness, phonics, and high-quality instruction, the systems of support built for teachers and administrators, and the powerful mindset shift that all kids can—and will—learn to read. This conversation is packed with insights for leaders and educators committed to equity and excellence in literacy instruction.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
• Follow us on Social Media
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
• Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here!

In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with Dr. Molly Ness—literacy advocate, researcher, and author—to unpack what it really takes to move from knowing the science of reading to putting it into practice. Dr. Ness shares her journey from classroom teacher to national thought leader and offers insight into why literacy reform requires whole-system change, not just new materials. They dive into the importance of language comprehension, intentional read alouds, and building student identity and joy in reading. Listeners will walk away with practical ideas for supporting literacy that go beyond test scores and into everyday classroom life.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
• Follow us on Social Media
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
• Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here!

In this episode of The Literacy Lunch Break, host Marjorie Bottari sits down with Dr. Almitra Berry, a nationally recognized educator and author who has spent over 30 years advocating for all learners. Dr. Berry shares her personal journey and the experiences that fueled her passion for transforming educational outcomes. Together, they discuss , the importance of self-reflection for educators, and practical steps toward improving learning outcomes for all learners. Listeners will leave inspired to honor the whole child while embracing the science—and art—of teaching.

Learn more about Heggerty!

• Visit Heggerty.org for FREE Resources and to download samples of our curriculum.
• Follow us on Social Media
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
• Want to keep in touch and be the first to know about new episodes, sign-up for our newsletter here!