SEEing to Lead

Since joining RIF in 2017, Katy has driven community engagement initiatives, significantly enhancing momentum for RIF’s mission. As the Vice President of Programs, she oversees the strategy and implementation of all RIF programs, ensuring alignment with RIF’s framework for impact. Her leadership has been instrumental in rebuilding RIF's community, fostering a robust network of educators, families, community partners, and volunteers. Through targeted capacity-building efforts, Katy has increased the collective impact on children's literacy. Prior to her tenure at RIF, Katy served as the Manager of The Teacher Community Program at PBS, where she supported K-12 education initiatives in select markets across the country. Her extensive experience in educational program management and community engagement has been pivotal in driving RIF’s mission forward, making a lasting impact on children's literacy and education.

This episode is part of the 2024 “National Literacy Month with RIF” campaign, a partnership between the BE Podcast Network and Reading Is Fundamental.

Show Notes:
In this episode, Katie Nicholson, Vice President of Programs at RIF (Reading is Fundamental), discusses her role and impact on children's literacy. Katie shares insights on the importance of community involvement, the concept of a culture of literacy, and various initiatives and programs like 'Books for Ownership' and the new 'Early Childhood Program.' She highlights her experiences and offers advice on fostering engagement and passion for reading among students of all ages. Katie also provides practical resources and solutions to support educators and parents in their efforts to promote literacy.

Book Marks:
00:00 Introduction to Katie's Role at RIF
01:16 The Importance of Community in Children's Literacy
02:23 Creating a Culture of Literacy
04:50 Roles in Promoting Literacy
07:17 Engaging Students of All Ages
10:01 Books for Ownership Program
13:46 Innovative Literacy Initiatives
17:00 Memorable Moments and Future Plans
23:31 Advice for Leaders and Conclusion

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I’ve been an educator in Massachusetts for 23 years.  I’m finishing my 16th year as a building leader.  I’m a teacher centered Principal and passionate about continuous improvement and the idea that success is not a destination, but a process. I’m active on social media, vlog about continuous improvement on a weekly basis, and wrote a book also called SEEing to Lead as a way to help everyone improve education as a whole by promoting my “just cause”: improving the educational experience for as many people as possible by being purposeful, acting with integrity, and building character. 

Like the content, want to be a guest, or know someone who would? Reach out to me on Twitter at @DrCSJones

Have you taken the time to order and read my latest book! Seeing to Lead is filled with practical resources and personal stories to help you support, engage, and empower those you lead no matter your position!

Jimmy Casas said, "If you are a leader who is looking to support, engage and empower your staff, then SEEing to Lead, by Dr. Chris Jones, is a book you will want to pick up and read. Dr. Jones reminds us that building capacity and helping others achieve personal success is the key to elevating your organization and leaving a lasting impact."

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This show is part of the Be Podcast Network. Our podcasts go beyond education as we know it — in any learning environment, formal or informal — and help you be the change you want to see. Learn more about the network and all our shows at https://bepodcast.network

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We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. 

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.