In this episode of The Education Connection, we continue our Science of Reading series by exploring fluency and why it is such an important bridge between phonics and comprehension. Learn the three components of fluency: accu...

Meet Dr. Marcus Belin--Distinguished Principal of Hunley High School in Huntley, IL. Dr. Belin was the 2021 National Digital Principal of the Year and the 2025 Illinois Principal of the Year. Marcus serves on the NASSP Board ...

Disclaimer: Please be advised that this episode contains content related to childhood trauma and a suicide attempt. If these topics are challenging for you, you may wish to skip this episode or seek support. Understanding how...

What is phonemic awareness, and why is it so important for beginning readers? In this first episode of our Science of Reading series, I break down what phonemic awareness is, why it matters, and how you can teach it in your c...

Some Cliffs This Week - FAAF 263 In this 263rd episode, I share my reflections from June 1-5, 2026. Check out the WHOLE SPOTIFY PLAYLIST I put together with all the listens mentioned below: >>> bit.ly/E263FreshAirAtFivePlayli...

The stories we tell ourselves shape the way we lead, the way we see ourselves, and the way we experience the world around us. In this episode, I explore the disempowering narratives so many school leaders carry about their id...