OnYourMark Podcast

About OnYourMark Podcast

OnYourMark is a mission-driven podcast exploring how high-dosage virtual tutoring can close early literacy gaps and expand opportunity for students across the country. Through conversations with superintendents, chief academic officers, and education leaders, the show dives into scalable solutions that merge human connection with data-driven instruction. The tone is intelligent, purposeful, and compassionate, focused on equity, access, and impact

Publisher

Mindy Sjoblom

Category

education · technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

21 Oct 2025

Latest episode

23 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   23 Oct 2026

   Designing for Multilingual Learners: Technology, Access, and Human Connection

   In this episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Brandon Cardet-Hernandez, Founder and CEO of Medley Learning, to explore how thoughtful technology can expand access for multilingual learners while keeping human connection at the center of learning. Brandon shares how his own experience as a multilingual learner shaped his career as a special education teacher, principal, district leader, education advisor, and eventually founder. He also explains why years of research on literacy and multilingual learning haven't always translated into classroom practice--and how Medley is working to help close that gap. Mindy and Brandon also dig into student agency, scaffolding without lowering expectations, the role of assistive technology, and why educators need tools that build their capacity rather than replace their relationships with students. Key Moments 01:05 Brandon's journey from educator to founder 04:01 Lessons from his first years teaching 08:33 Closing the research-to-practice gap 11:43 How Medley supports multilingual learners 14:42 Giving students more agency 18:00 Creating space for human connection 22:00 Rethinking technology and screen time 24:54 Making grade-level text accessible 27:11 Why all screen time isn't equal 31:40 Brandon's vision for Medley's future Why You'll Love This Episode Brandon challenges the idea that supporting multilingual learners means lowering the level of the work. Instead, he shares how the right scaffolds can help students access challenging, grade-level content while building greater independence over time. For educators and school leaders navigating questions about AI, screen time, multilingual learning, and student support, this episode offers a practical reminder: technology is most powerful when it creates more opportunities for students to learn, connect, and take meaningful risks. Connect with Brandon Cardet-Hernandez LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandoncardethernandez Medley Learning: https://www.medleylearning.com/ Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom OnYourMarkWebsite: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ OnYourMark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what's possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

2. 

   21 Oct 2026

   Five Years of OnYourMark: Building, Learning, and Betting on What Works for Kids

   Five years ago, OnYourMark was an idea built around a big question: Could virtual, high-impact tutoring give more students access to the reading support they deserve? In this special fifth-anniversary episode, host Mindy Sjoblom is joined by two advisors who were there from the beginning: Ian Connell, Partner, Innovation - New Ventures at Charter School Growth Fund, and Julie Kennedy, Executive Director of Excellent Schools Washington. Together, they revisit the earliest days of OnYourMark--from the changing literacy landscape and pandemic-era challenges that created an opportunity for innovation to the Seattle planning session that helped turn an idea into an organization. They also reflect on what has remained constant through five years of growth: investing in people, putting student outcomes first, embracing research and continuous improvement, and using technology to strengthen--not replace--the human relationships at the heart of learning. Key Moments 01:36 Ian and Julie's connection to OnYourMark 03:59 The literacy challenge that sparked the work 06:09 Why 2020 created a unique opportunity 09:39 Mindy's decision to take the founder leap 13:49 Building the original OnYourMark vision 18:26 From an ambitious goal to thousands of students 19:26 Why investing in people became the core strategy 27:48 Using AI to strengthen tutor coaching 33:47 Looking back at what OnYourMark proved 38:05 What the next five years could hold Why You'll Love This Episode Ian, Julie, and Mindy share what it really takes to move from an idea to an intervention that works inside the complexity of schools. They talk openly about the assumptions they had to test, the importance of strong implementation, and how OnYourMark has evolved alongside new research and technology. Most importantly, the conversation is a reminder that innovation in education is still fundamentally about people. Technology can make coaching smarter and programs more scalable, but meaningful relationships between students and educators remain at the center. For education leaders, founders, and anyone interested in literacy and innovation, this episode offers a practical look at what five years of building, testing, learning, and improving can make possible for kids. Connect with Ian Connell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianconnell Charter School Growth Fund: https://chartergrowthfund.org/ Connect with Julie Kennedy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-trott-kennedy-21453a28 Excellent Schools Washington: https://www.excellentschoolswa.org/ Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom OnYourMarkWebsite: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ OnYourMark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what's possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

3. 

   22 Sept 2026

   Designing Literacy Intervention That Works: How Jamie Thomas Builds for Student Impact at OnYourMark

   In today's episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Jamie Thomas, Managing Director of Program Design and Impact at OnYourMark and one of the organization's founding team members. Jamie shares how her journey from elementary teaching to early childhood program design, instructional coaching, and literacy intervention shaped the work she leads today. Together, Mindy and Jamie reflect on how OnYourMark has evolved over the past five years--from an early idea to supporting thousands of students with targeted literacy intervention. Mindy and Jamie discuss what it really takes to design an effective literacy program: listening to students, tutors, and school partners; grounding decisions in the science of reading; using data to continuously improve; and protecting the relationship between students and tutors. They also explore why early intervention matters, how support needs to change for older struggling readers, and what research has taught OnYourMark about delivering effective and sustainable high-dosage tutoring. Key Moments 01:05 Jamie's path from classroom teacher to literacy program leader 05:37 Designing intervention through research, data, and listening 07:48 How school collaboration improves student outcomes 11:37 Using tutor feedback to strengthen program design 13:07 Listening to student voices in tutoring 15:51 Why early literacy intervention matters 18:03 Supporting older struggling readers differently 23:22 Creating coherence across different literacy curricula 28:46 What research has taught OnYourMark about tutoring 32:58 How OnYourMark trains and develops tutors 35:03 What schools should look for in a literacy intervention partner Why You'll Love This Episode If you care about literacy intervention, high-dosage tutoring, or designing programs that actually respond to student needs, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how OnYourMark approaches the work. Jamie shares why strong program design starts with listening, how research and continuous improvement shape decisions, and why relationships remain essential even in highly structured literacy intervention. You'll also hear practical insight into supporting older struggling readers, building coherence with school partners, and developing tutors who are prepared to deliver strong instruction from day one. Connect with Jamie Thomas LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-thomas-1a5a0718 Website: https://onyourmarkeducation.org/ Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom OnYourMarkWebsite: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ OnYourMark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what's possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

4. 

   3 Aug 2026

   From Accountability to Impact: How Melissa Gude Is Strengthening Early Literacy in Little Rock School District

   In today's episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Melissa Gude, Chief Academic Officer at Little Rock School District in Arkansas. Melissa shares how her path from a nontraditional start in education to district-level leadership shaped her belief in mission-driven work, strong instructional systems, and collective accountability for student outcomes. Mindy and Melissa discuss how Arkansas's LEARNS Act has changed the early literacy landscape, including new third-grade promotion requirements, individualized reading plans, and the statewide ATLAS assessment system. Melissa also explains how Little Rock improved third-grade literacy outcomes by investing in high-quality instructional materials, professional learning, high-impact tutoring, and outcomes-based contracting. Key Moments 00:52 Melissa Gude's journey into education leadership 07:40 How the LEARNS Act changed literacy in Arkansas 12:22 Third-grade accountability and reading success 16:11 Strengthening instruction with high-quality curriculum 18:46 Why outcomes-based contracting works 24:09 Building strong district and school partnerships 27:20 Terry Elementary's literacy success story 30:21 Improving attendance for tutoring success 34:15 Advice for districts implementing high-impact tutoring 38:51 Looking ahead to earlier literacy intervention Why You'll Love This Episode If you care about early literacy, district accountability, or making sure education investments lead to measurable student growth, this conversation offers a practical look at what it takes. Melissa speaks honestly about the opportunities and challenges created by new literacy legislation, the importance of selecting the right partners, and why successful tutoring requires more than purchasing a program. It takes clear expectations, shared ownership, strong school leadership, and consistent communication. Her reflections offer valuable lessons for any district leader working to improve literacy outcomes while making thoughtful and sustainable decisions about resources. Connect with Melissa Gude LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-gude-education Little Rock School District: https://www.lrsd.org/ Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom OnYourMarkWebsite: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ OnYourMark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what's possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

5. 

   1 Jul 2026

   Strengthening Literacy Pathways: How Readers Are Being Supported in Haverhill Public Schools

   In today’s episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Margaret Marotta Smith, Superintendent of Haverhill Public Schools, and Bonnie Antkowiak, Principal in Haverhill Public Schools. Together, they share how Haverhill is building stronger, more coherent literacy systems across grade levels, from early reading instruction to secondary literacy and high-dosage tutoring. Mindy, Margaret, and Bonnie discuss what makes Haverhill special, including its deep community pride, diverse student population, and strong pathways for educators to grow within the district. They also explore how high-quality instructional materials, thoughtful implementation, MTSS, and tutoring are helping more students access grade-level learning and build confidence as readers. Key Moments 03:22 What makes Haverhill Public Schools special 05:40 Growing educators from within the community 07:40 Supporting diverse learners through cohesive curriculum and MTSS 09:47 Why Haverhill was named a Spotlight District for secondary literacy 10:20 Implementing high-quality instructional materials in high school 12:13 Leading through teacher pushback with flexibility and support 15:18 Supporting struggling readers with interventionists and co-teaching 17:28 Building coherence across K–8 literacy instruction 20:15 Using data to strengthen Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 supports 22:52 How high-dosage tutoring fits into Haverhill’s literacy system 28:08 Student investment and relationships in virtual tutoring 30:02 Funding literacy priorities through grants and community partnerships 32:05 A five-year vision for Haverhill’s literacy outcomes Why You’ll Love This Episode If you care about literacy systems, implementation, and making sure every student has access to strong instruction, this episode offers a practical look inside district leadership. Margaret and Bonnie share how Haverhill is aligning resources to priorities, supporting teachers through change, and expanding reading intervention so more students can grow with confidence. Connect with Margaret Marotta Smith and Bonnie Antkowiak Haverhill Public Schools: https://www.haverhill-ps.org/ (https://www.haverhill-ps.org/) Margaret Marotta Smith LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-marotta-smith-47508926 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-marotta-smith-47508926) Bonnie Antkowiak LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnie-antkowiak-8051463b/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnie-antkowiak-8051463b/) Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom) OnYourMarkWebsite: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ (https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/) OnYourMark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education (https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education) About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what’s possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

6. 

   17 Jun 2026

   Leading with Equity, Literacy, and Heart: Dr. Theresa Rouse’s Journey Transforming Joliet Public Schools District 86

   In today’s episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Dr. Theresa Rouse, Superintendent of Joliet Public Schools District 86 in Illinois. With more than 30 years in education and 16 years as a superintendent, Dr. Rouse reflects on her journey from classroom teacher to district leader and shares how a commitment to equity, cultural proficiency, and whole-child support has shaped nearly a decade of transformation in Joliet. Mindy and Dr. Rouse discuss the district’s equity journey, the importance of examining personal biases before changing systems, and the intentional literacy strategies helping students recover and accelerate after the pandemic. They also explore the role of music, art, social-emotional learning, and community trust in creating schools where every child can thrive. As Dr. Rouse prepares for retirement in 2027, she reflects on the legacy she hopes to leave behind—and the torch she hopes to pass forward. Key Moments 01:19 Dr. Rouse’s path from classroom teacher to superintendent 03:11 Arriving in Joliet and uncovering the district’s biggest challenge 06:12 Beginning the district’s cultural proficiency and equity journey 08:19 Personal reflection, bias, and leadership growth 09:55 Leading difficult conversations as a new superintendent 12:44 Why meaningful organizational change took two years to build 16:33 Results of the district’s equity-focused approach 20:19 Embedding equity into strategic planning and hiring practices 21:37 What literacy through an equity lens looks like in practice 22:43 Strengthening kindergarten literacy through targeted support 25:28 Recovering from pandemic learning loss and accelerating growth 26:15 Building coherent literacy systems across the district 28:24 Supporting multilingual learners through resources and access 29:49 Selecting and implementing Wit & Wisdom as a core curriculum 31:04 Why social-emotional learning is foundational to academic success 33:33 The role of music and art in educating the whole child 37:30 Preparing for retirement and passing the torch to the next leader 38:21 New schools, facility investments, and leaving a lasting legacy Why You’ll Love This Episode If you care about educational equity, literacy leadership, and creating systems that truly serve all students, this conversation is a must-listen. Dr. Rouse offers a thoughtful and deeply personal perspective on leading change, supporting educators, and ensuring every child has access to the opportunities they deserve. Her reflections on leadership, community trust, and whole-child education provide valuable lessons for district leaders at every stage of their journey. Connect with Dr. Theresa Rouse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresa-rouse-ed-d-bb65521a (https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresa-rouse-ed-d-bb65521a) Website: https://www.joliet86.org/ (https://www.joliet86.org/) Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom) OnYourMarkWebsite: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ (https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/) OnYourMark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education (https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education) About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what’s possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

7. 

   25 Mar 2026

   Inside Greenwich’s Literacy Success: Strategy, Consistency, and Community Involvement

   In this episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Dr. Toni Jones, Superintendent of Greenwich Public Schools in Connecticut, for a deep and honest conversation about what it really takes to build successful early literacy programs in schools. Dr. Toni Jones shares her remarkable career journey across different states and countries, and how those diverse experiences shaped her commitment to equity in education. Together, they dive into the unique challenges of leading a high-performing yet economically diverse district, facing persistent achievement gaps, and pivoting through the disruptive years of COVID-19. Dr. Toni Jones opens up about the strategic decisions that helped level the playing field for all students, including system-wide literacy initiatives, targeted use of federal funds, consistent implementation of high-quality instructional materials, and innovative tutoring and volunteer programs. Throughout the episode, you’ll hear practical insights on leveraging data, building strong principal leadership, fostering collaboration over competition, and making the most of available resources, no matter the budget. Mindy Sjoblom and Dr. Toni Jones also look ahead to the future of education, exploring the impact of artificial intelligence, the need to prepare students for an ever-changing world, and what’s next for Greenwich’s Achieve 2028 strategic plan. Key Moments 06:21 Improving Literacy Through Phonics 07:45 Balanced Literacy for All Students 10:51 Achieving Literacy Success 14:54 Streamlined Math Resource Adoption 19:14 Greenwich's Strong Volunteer Community 21:10 MTSS Leadership and Power Tutoring 26:29 Strategic Problem-Solving Through Data 29:37 "Resource Allocation for Education Effectiveness" 33:18 Adapting Education for AI Future 36:07 Implementing and Exploring AI in Schools 39:04 AI Translation and Education Tools Why You’ll Love This Episode If you’re working to improve early literacy outcomes without losing sight of equity, this episode is packed with practical insight. Dr. Toni Jones shares how to move from inconsistent practices to a clear, districtwide system that delivers results, especially for students who need it most. You’ll hear how consistency, strategic use of resources, and data-driven decision-making can close gaps, strengthen instruction, and support teachers at scale. Plus, the conversation offers a real look at balancing structure with student engagement, and what it takes to lead meaningful change across diverse schools. Connect with Dr. Toni Jones LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtonijones (https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtonijones) Website: https://www.greenwichschools.org/ (https://www.greenwichschools.org/) Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom) OnYourMark Website: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ (https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education (https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education) About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what’s possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

8. 

   6 Jan 2026

   Capacity Through Clarity: How Dr. NaTasha Crain Is Strengthening Literacy Systems in Marshall ISD

   In today’s episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Dr. NaTasha Crain, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction at Marshall Independent School District in East Texas. With her entire career rooted in East Texas public schools, Dr. Crain shares how her journey from secondary English teacher to elementary principal to district leader—has shaped her belief in strong Tier 1 instruction, aligned systems, and clear expectations for adults. Mindy and Dr. Crain explore how Marshall ISD is improving literacy outcomes by investing in professional learning, lesson rehearsal, and consistent instructional practices. The conversation also highlights how clarity in communication, thoughtful MTSS systems, and intentional implementation of resources like i-Ready are helping teachers meet students where they are—while ensuring equity across classrooms.. Key Moments 01:05 Dr. Crain’s career journey across East Texas public schools 03:45 From secondary to elementary leadership: lessons learned 07:32 Improving literacy outcomes through Tier 1 instruction 09:54 Building teacher capacity through explicit instruction and alignment 11:10 District-wide PD structure and six-week planning cycles 12:30 Lesson rehearsal and PLCs as tools for instructional growth 13:33 Redefining Tier 2 and Tier 3 support through MTSS 15:30 Using i-Ready diagnostics and stretch goals to close gaps 17:42 Monitoring fidelity and implementation with clear systems 20:29 Supporting emergent bilingual learners and early literacy foundations 24:07 Building a culture of continuous learning through modeling 27:15 A five-year vision for equity and whole-child success 28:48 What Dr. Crain is reading: The Craft of Clarity 30:14 “Paint done”: communicating expectations with precision Why You’ll Love This Episode If you’re focused on literacy improvement, professional learning, or system-wide coherence, this episode offers practical insight and encouragement. Dr. Crain shares how clarity is kind, why Tier 1 instruction does the heavy lifting, and how leaders can build trust by learning alongside teachers. Her grounded approach to equity and implementation makes this a valuable listen for district and campus leaders alike. Connect with Dr NaTasha Crain LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-natasha-crain-337575b5 Website:https://www.marshallisd.com/ Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom OnYourMark Website: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ OnYourMark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what’s possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

9. 

   30 Dec 2025

   Reading to Coherence: How Kelly Elrod Is Rebuilding Literacy Systems in Anderson School District 5

   In today’s episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Kelly Elrod, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Continuous Improvement in Anderson School District 5 (South Carolina). With 35 years in education—spanning early childhood special education, literacy coaching, school turnaround leadership, and district-level roles—Kelly shares what it takes to rebuild coherent systems after COVID while protecting teachers from overload. Mindy and Kelly dig into the shift from balanced literacy to the science of reading, why strong Tier 1 instruction matters most, and how Anderson 5 is strengthening support for students—especially in a district with high poverty and a highly transient student population. Kelly also explains how her team is approaching professional development with clarity, consistency, and a focus on the “why,” so teachers know exactly where they’re headed and how they’ll get there. Key Moments 01:01 Kelly Elrod’s 35-year journey through early childhood, special education, and district leadership 03:12 Leading turnaround work and building school culture from the ground up 06:34 Why districts are striving for coherence after COVID 08:58 Balanced literacy vs. science of reading: what was missing 11:22 Why Anderson 5 is prioritizing 4K instruction 14:10 Addressing foundational reading gaps in middle school 17:05 Managing professional development during large-scale change 20:48 Universal Design for Learning and strengthening Tier 1 instruction 23:20 Change management: starting early and sharing the “why” 26:52 Curriculum fidelity and supporting a highly transient student population 30:30 Rethinking intervention through push-in models and MTSS 35:22 A five-year vision for stronger systems and sustained student support 37:05 What Kelly is reading and what’s next for instructional equity Why You’ll Love This Episode If you’re working to strengthen literacy outcomes and protect teacher capacity, this episode will resonate. Kelly offers practical, grounded insight into building district coherence especially in communities with high need and constant change. You’ll hear what it looks like to move from “too many initiatives” to a clear, supportive system where students don’t fall through the cracks and teachers aren’t asked to reinvent the wheel. Connect with Kelly Elrod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-elrod-b8384149 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-elrod-b8384149)Website: https://www.anderson5.net/ (https://www.anderson5.net/) Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindyshowbloom/)https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom)OnYourMarkWebsite: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ (https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/)OnYourMark LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education (https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education) About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what’s possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

10. 

    17 Dec 2025

    Growing Readers, Retaining Teachers: Putnam County School District Approach to Lasting Improvement

    In this episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Dr. Rick Surrency, Superintendent of Putnam County School District in Florida, and Laura France, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction. Together, they share how a district once labeled “in decline” moved from a 54.9% graduation rate and multiple failing schools to over 92% graduation and zero schools in failing status. Mindy, Dr. Surrency, and Laura unpack how stable leadership, stronger Tier 1 instruction, and a relentless focus on systems not quick fixes have transformed teaching, learning, and literacy across the district. From novice teacher support to near-peer tutoring, this is a masterclass in long-game, student-centered change. Key Moments 00:04 Welcome to the OnYourMark Podcast & Today’s Guests 01:25 Rick’s 48-Year Journey in Education & Returning as Superintendent 02:18 From District in Decline to 92.5% Graduation Rate 03:53 Turning Around a Chronically Failing School & Scaling What Worked 04:56 Laura on Strengthening Core Instruction vs. “Intervening Our Way Out” 07:19 Building a Common Language for Instruction & Real-Time Professional Learning 11:15 Making Learning Relevant: CTE, STEM, and Portrait of a Graduate 13:51 STEM Pathways, K–12 STEM Accreditation & Cambridge Acceleration 33:18 Inside Putnam’s K–12 Comprehensive Evidence-Based Reading Plan 37:42 Trend Walks: Non-Evaluative Classroom Visits that Drive PD 39:52 Raising Future Teachers: Near-Peer “RAISE” Tutors & Grow-Your-Own Pipelines 44:45 Looking Ahead: Five New Schools, a $300M Bond, and What’s Next Why You’ll Love This Episode If you care about literacy, leadership, and long-term system improvement, this conversation will stay with you. Dr. Rick Surrency and Laura France share openly about moving a district from decline to stability, rebuilding core instruction, and creating systems that last beyond any one leader. They unpack how relevance, strong pedagogy, and community trust come together to help every student grow and how investing in teachers keeps the whole system moving forward. Their clarity, humility, and deep commitment to kids make this an energizing listen for any education leader focused on sustainable change. Connect with Our Guests Dr. Rick Surrency: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-surrency-221a69a5 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-surrency-221a69a5)Laura France: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-france-376602a7 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-france-376602a7) Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindyshowbloom/)https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom)OnYourMarkWebsite: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ (https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/)OnYourMark LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education (https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education) About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what’s possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

11. 

    12 Dec 2025

    Building Systems for Every Reader: Inside Palo Alto Unified’s Early Literacy Work

    Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Danae Reynolds, Executive Director of Curriculum & Instruction at Palo Alto Unified School District, to explore how a high-performing district dug beneath its overall scores to confront unfinished learning and better support student groups who weren’t yet meeting grade-level expectations. Danae shares how Palo Alto Unified built the Every Student Reads Initiative—grounded in structured literacy, explicit phonics instruction, and a districtwide commitment to training every K–3 teacher and principal. Together, they unpack how system alignment, strong core instruction, and a deeper understanding of multilingual learners reshaped early reading across schools. From rethinking decodables to building model classrooms, this is a clear look at how sustained adult learning drives lasting student growth. Key Moments 00:04 Welcome to the OnYourMark Podcast 00:24 Introducing Danae Reynolds & Palo Alto Unified’s literacy focus 01:29 Danae’s journey from classroom teacher to district leader 03:17 Why strong averages masked gaps for specific student groups 04:37 Discovering Orton–Gillingham and early signs of improvement 07:14 Rethinking decodables and unlearning whole-language habits 09:56 Supporting multilingual learners with explicit phoneme instruction 13:34 Why decoding gaps—not comprehension alone—drive early struggles 16:37 Districtwide training: every K–3 teacher and every principal 22:24 Using student photos to humanize data and drive goal setting 31:05 Building model classrooms and cross-site learning structures 37:09 Naming dips in progress and planning the next phase of work Why You’ll Love This Episode If you’re committed to early literacy and systemwide coherence, this conversation offers practical clarity and grounded insight. Danae shares candidly about confronting inequities hidden beneath strong averages and how evidence-based instruction helped create more consistent experiences for students across schools. You’ll hear how shared language, predictable routines, and deep support for teachers shaped the district’s approach to early reading. Danae’s honesty about the learning required—both personally and systemwide—makes this a powerful listen for leaders focused on sustainable improvement. Connect with Guest LinkedIn: Danae Reynolds: https://www.linkedin.com (https://www.linkedin.com/) Website: https://www.pausd.org/ (https://www.pausd.org/) Follow Us Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom)OnYourMark Website: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ (https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/)OnYourMark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education (https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education) About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where Mindy Sjoblom talks with school system leaders shaping what’s possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

12. 

    11 Nov 2025

    Science of Reading and Real Change: Dr. Edie Sohigian’s Approach to Struggling Readers

    In this episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Dr. Edie Sohigian, Executive Director of Elementary School Education for Sampson County Schools in North Carolina. Together, they dig into Edie's journey from major urban school districts to leading in a rural setting, exploring the unique challenges and opportunities of each. The conversation unfolds around resource divides, leadership strategies, and the power of relationships in education. Mindy and Edie get candid about current literacy instruction, especially the district’s big shift towards aligning teaching with the science of reading and the importance of high-quality instructional materials. They discuss how Sampson County is tackling support for struggling readers, building clarity and coherence for teachers, and fostering a culture where vulnerability and learning go hand in hand. This episode is full of insights and practical takeaways on literacy, supporting educators, and what it takes to enact real change in schools. Stick around to hear Edie's vision for literacy five years from now and some personal reading recommendations to keep you inspired! Key Moments 03:16 Rural vs. Urban Connections 08:34 Collaboration Brings Transformational Change 12:01 Student Self-Efficacy in Learning 15:04 "The Art of Gathering Insights" 16:46 "North Carolina Reading Initiative" 21:27 Adopting Effective Teaching Materials 25:48 "Job-Embedded Support Strategy" 26:32 Early Literacy Through Close Reading 29:42 Evaluating Tiered Instruction Effectiveness 33:39 Strength-Based Literacy and Rigor 37:28 "Spectacular Leadership Lessons" Why You’ll Love This Episode This is a thoughtful look at what it takes to lead literacy with clarity and heart. Dr. Edie Sohigian shares how Sampson County Schools is closing gaps, empowering teachers, and embracing the science of reading to give every child a strong start. From rethinking instructional playbooks to building trust and transparency, her leadership shows that change in education begins with people, not programs. If you care about literacy, equity, and the power of clear vision, this episode is for you. Connect with Dr. Edie Sohigian LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edie-sohigian (https://www.linkedin.com/in/edie-sohigian) Website: https://www.sampson.k12.nc.us/ (https://www.sampson.k12.nc.us/) Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindyshowbloom/)https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom)OnYourMark Website: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ (https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/)OnYourMark LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education (https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education) About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what’s possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

13. 

    21 Oct 2025

    Building Trust, Strengthening Systems: Dr. Hollingsworth is Leading Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD

    In today’s episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Dr. Jerry D. Hollingsworth, Superintendent of Eagle Mountain-Saginaw Independent School District in Northwest Fort Worth, Texas. With more than three decades in education, Dr. Hollingsworth shares how listening, consistency, and community trust are driving the district’s next chapter of growth. From a district-wide “listening tour” to implementing stronger Tier 1 instruction and a new balanced scorecard for accountability, Dr. Hollingsworth offers an honest look at leading through change while keeping students and teachers at the center. Mindy and Dr. Hollingsworth also discuss the power of family engagement, what it takes to align instruction across 31 campuses, and how personal experiences with dyslexia have shaped his belief that every student deserves to grow at least one year—every year. Timestamps 01:02 Introducing Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD & Community Overview 02:10 Dr. Hollingsworth’s Path from Classroom Teacher to Superintendent 04:26 Why Literacy Matters: Meeting Students Where They Are 06:40 How Changing Student Experiences Impact Early Learning 09:20 The Listening Tour: Hearing from Teachers, Families, and Staff 19:19 Personal Story: Raising and Supporting Struggling Readers 23:03 Setting Clear Priorities Through the Balanced Scorecard 27:29 Creating Transparency with Monthly Board Reporting 34:29 Leadership Lessons & Reflections on Literacy and Change 36:27 What Dr. Hollingsworth is Reading: Empire of the Summer Moon 39:15 Closing Reflections on Public Education and Democracy Why You’ll Love This Episode If you care about literacy, leadership, and systemwide improvement, this conversation will resonate. Dr. Hollingsworth opens up about rebuilding trust after transition, balancing accountability with grace, and creating a culture where every teacher and student is supported to succeed. His practical wisdom and deep humanity make this an inspiring listen for any education leader navigating change. Connect with Jerry D. Hollingsworth, Ed.D LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-hollingsworth-56633210 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-hollingsworth-56633210)Website: https://www.emsisd.com/ (https://www.emsisd.com/) Follow Us: Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindyshowbloom/)https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom)OnYourMark Website: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/ (https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/)OnYourMark LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education (https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education) About OnYourMark Podcast The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what’s possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child. 👉Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the OnYourMark Podcast for more conversations on literacy, leadership, and lasting change.

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