S9 E1: Literacy as a catalyst for change, with Ray James

In the Season 9 premiere of Science of Reading: The Podcast, Susan Lambert speaks with Ray James, Head of School at The Ansley School, about the transformative impact of literacy instruction. The Ansley School, which serves children experiencing homelessness, has made evidence-based literacy instruction a key piece of its efforts to foster profound educational and community change. Ray shares his journey and explores how a focus on literacy provides benefits that extend beyond the classroom to the broader community. This episode underscores the importance of foundational literacy skills and sets the stage for a new season dedicated to a literacy reboot.Show notes:Submit your literacy questions for a chance to win!The Ansley School Instagram): @theansleyschool Ray’s Instagram: @the_rayvolutionWebsite: https://theansleyschool.org/Quotes:"If you don't get reading right in an elementary school, every piece of the school suffers." —Ray James"We’re not just doing school, but educating people. I think a lot of people do school, we’re trying to educate our community holistically."—Ray James"Education isn't just about academics, it's about creating a safe place and providing holistic, evidence-based literacy instruction that catalyzes real change."—Ray JamesEpisode timestamps*01:00 Season nine: Reading reboot02:00 Introduction: Who is Ray James?04:00 Ray James' journey from politics to education06:00 The Boyce L. Ansley School community10:00 Support structures for families13:00 Transforming literacy at The Ansley School20:00 Impact of literacy initiatives29:00 Future goals and vision for The Ansley School40:00 Season nine: Looking ahead*Timestamps are approximate, rounded to nearest minute