Learning Unlocked is hosted by Brit Bingold, an Instructional Specialists for Gilbert Public Schools, in Gilbert AZ. GPS and our Professional Growth Department believe that educators are the key-holders to unlocking learning for students. The goal of the podcast is to provide educators with resources and tools--the KEYS--to enable and accelerate learning for all students.
S8E61: Building Strong Readers: Structured Literacy in Action
Guest: Kristin McCord, Instructional Specialist - Reading/ELA PreK-6
In this episode, Kristin shares the essential components of early reading instruction and explore what EVERY (PreK-12) educator needs to know to support young readers. From phonemic awareness and phonics to fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the foundational skills that set students up for lifelong literacy.
Learn how to make phonics instruction more engaging, identify struggling readers early, and deliver targeted support with confidence. Whether you're new to teaching reading or looking to sharpen your approach, this episode will empower you to implement structured literacy practices, differentiate for diverse learners, and build a classroom culture where reading is both accessible and joyful.
Resources from this episode:
Scarborough's Reading Rope
Structured Literacy
Finger Stretching Video
Elkonin Boxes
Fundations "Tapping Video"
Open-Source Decodable Stories (for teachers oustide of GPS*)
Open-Source Phonics (for teachers oustide of GPS*)
Kristin LIVE working with Miles
*GPS teachers will use district approved curriculum and resources.
2 May 2025
S8E60: Unpack the Impact: Tackling Toxic Stress and Strengthening Resilience
Guest: Jessica Smith, Arizona ACEs Consortium Educator
In this episode, we unpack the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and explore how different types of stress—positive, tolerable, and toxic—shape student (and adult) behavior, learning, and engagement. This knowledge and awareness can help educators create safe, supportive environments where all students are better able to learn and grow.
Resources from this episode:
Parents Under Pressure - USDHHS
Youth Mental Health - USHHS
Mindfulness First
The Arizona ACEs Consortium (https://azaces.org/)
The Regulated Classroom Book (https://www.regulatedclassroom.com/)
Yoga Nidra Guided Meditations
John Hopkins Medicine Somatic Breath and Body Work (https://youtu.be/mYIRLhEaCgA)
9 Apr 2025
S8E59: Bridging Gaps: Scaffolding Curriculum to Meet Student Needs
Guest: Jennifer Kjar, ELA Resource Teacher at South Valley Junior High
Listen in as veteran educator Jennifer shares how she personalizes the district ELA curriculum, scaffolds effectively for resource students, and strikes the perfect balance between high expectations and supportive practices. Full of practical tips and warm encouragement, this episode is a must-listen for any teacher looking to engage all learners with strategies, routines, and heart.
Resources from this episode:
Kami (https://www.kamiapp.com/)
Curipod (https://curipod.com/)
Jennifer's Evidence Log
MadLibs for Parts of Speech
Supporting Student Success with High Expectations
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
12 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 58 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
86
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
77
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