The Reading Hacker

Sometimes an idea pops into your head and you just have to try it! 💡

Today I used a Slinky as a hands-on, multisensory way to teach the difference between long and short vowels. I love finding simple strategies that make abstract phonics concepts click.

I'm also trying out the SIPS Challenge program before deciding whether to invest in the Plus program for my older students who still need support with foundational decoding.

So far, I'm impressed that it feels age-respectful and not babyish. I'll keep you posted!
And a huge shout-out to my amazing client—you absolutely rock! 👏📚

teacherlife

Teachers want what's best for kids. But when schools are underfunded and expectations keep growing without the resources to match, it's students who pay the price. Every child deserves the support they need to succeed.

Fight the darkness....focus on your locus of control...

I'm still processing everything I learned from the two conferences I attended, so now it's time to dig deeper into the research. 📚

First up: The Restorative Practice Playbook by Dominique Smith, Douglas Fisher, and Nancy Frey.

One thing the research keeps pointing to is that high-performing schools—regardless of poverty levels—create a strong sense of belonging. That has me asking: What are they doing differently?

I'm on a mission to find out... and I'll be sharing what I learn along the way.