While Teaching Channel Talks takes a short spring break, we’re looking back at the powerful ideas educators have shared this season. These conversations offered more than inspiration. They surfaced actionable strategies, hard-earned insights, and real examples of how teachers and leaders are meeting the needs of their students.
If you missed an episode or haven’t tuned in yet, now’s a great time to start. Hosted by Dr. Wendy Amato, Teaching Channel Talks brings together teachers, leaders, and experts from across the country to talk candidly about what’s working in education right now by looking at stories from real schools across the country.
From early literacy to math routines and career-connected learning, these discussions surfaced timely, practical examples of how educators are meeting the needs of their students. Here are five practical lessons worth taking back to your school—straight from the voices featured on Teaching Channel Talks.
1. Strong Tier 1 instruction reduces the need for intervention.
When Tier 1 instruction is designed around student data, fewer students require intervention. Universal screeners can guide how teachers group students, allocate instructional time, and deliver targeted reading instruction within the core block. This isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what works. When schools use this approach, students who begin the year below benchmark often meet expectations within weeks. Hear how one team used screening data to rework their ELA block and saw rapid growth—in episode 109: Moving Beyond Intervention with Strong Reading Foundations.
2. Foundational reading and content knowledge can grow together.
Decodable texts can do more than reinforce phonics—they can also introduce students to meaningful content. When reading materials are thoughtfully designed, students build fluency while learning about topics like civil rights, science, or community. This dual focus helps ensure that foundational reading instruction connects to bigger ideas, supporting both literacy and comprehension. Find out how one curriculum paired decodable texts with real-world topics to build both fluency and knowledge in episode 99: From Phonics to Fluency: Inside the RedThread Literacy Program.
3. Vocabulary instruction should be active, direct, and reinforced.
Word knowledge is critical for reading comprehension, yet it doesn’t develop by accident. Explicit vocabulary instruction—supported by tools students can use both in school and at home—helps bridge gaps in access. Especially in communities where families are navigating their own literacy growth, reinforcing vocabulary through games and repeated practice gives students an entry point to more complex texts. Learn how Mrs. Wordsmith has made vocabulary instruction more accessible and engaging for students and families in episode 108: Game-Based Learning for Literacy Success.
4. Small shifts in language create more grounded classrooms.
Helping students get ready to learn means more than managing schedules or classroom logistics—it starts from within. Daily rituals, purposeful language shifts, and simple breath-based techniques help regulate nervous systems, support focus, and promote a culture where all learners feel ready and safe to participate. Hear how one educator brings wellness and academics together through brain-aligned techniques in episode 103: Empowerment in Education from the Inside Out.
5. Career readiness grows when students solve real problems.
Giving students opportunities to apply their learning to real-world challenges strengthens their sense of purpose and builds transferable skills. Whether designing a product, pitching an idea, or creating a digital tool, students benefit from seeing how classroom learning connects to future careers. Even when internships aren’t available, authentic, project-based experiences still make a measurable impact. Discover how students are tackling real challenges from industry partners—and why it matters in episode 106: Building “Future Ready” Students.
If these strategies resonate with you, there’s more to explore! Catch up on past episodes of Teaching Channel Talks with host Dr. Wendy Amato, and hear directly from educators about the strategies they’re using to improve student engagement, strengthen instruction, and support meaningful learning.
