Read by Example

Apr 03, 2026 — The science of reading has made real progress in how schools think about decoding and language comprehension. But for a significant number of struggling readers, those two buckets don’t explain what’s getting in the way. Dr. Kelly Cartwright, Spangler...

Mar 20, 2026 — In this 45-minute presentation, I walk through five beliefs about the science of reading. The intent is to spark curiosity and encourage conversation. Watch this presentation in tandem with my free eBook What School Leaders Need to Know About the...

Jan 10, 2026 — Listen to my conversation with Penny Kittle, author of Micro Mentor Texts: Using Short Passages From Great Books to Teach Writer’s Craft (Scholastic, 2022). This will be our book club selection for January - March 2026. Join the chat below. Full...

Jan 10, 2026 — This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit readbyexample.substack.com This video recording is an exclusive benefit for paid subscribers to Read by Example. Thank you for your support! You can use this content in a variety of ways: *...

Sep 12, 2025 — In this video demonstration, I share key journaling tools - simple tracking tools and intentions for success - to start my month. The ultimate goal is improving outcomes for teachers and students. That includes a sense of well-being, not just...

Aug 30, 2025 — Matt speaks with Regie Routman, longtime educator and author of many books, including The Heart-Centered Teacher, for the inaugural episode of Literacy Unscripted. This podcast series challenges traditional approaches to literacy teaching and...

Jul 10, 2025 — In this launch episode, host Matt explores the tension between literacy mandates and the messy reality of school leadership and teaching. Drawing from his experience as a principal and systems coach, Matt introduces the concept of "scripts" in...

Apr 21, 2025 — Happy Monday! This week’s focus is on being a noticer vs. a judger during classroom visits. 📚 PROFESSIONAL STRATEGY When informally observing classroom instruction, shift from judging to noticing. Start by acknowledging what you see and hear without...

Mar 31, 2025 — Happy Monday! This week’s focus is on promoting reflection through questions. 📚 PROFESSIONAL STRATEGY Spring is hectic. It is also a time for reflection and renewal. We can encourage teachers to explore the proverbial question "Why am I doing what I'm...

Apr 30, 2024 — As a literacy leader, writing is a critical skill. * We need to frequently communicate our organization’s beliefs and values. * We avoid misunderstandings when what we share and post is clear. * If we expect our students and teachers to be writers… So...