S4-E14: What it takes to be a literacy education changemaker: Kareem Weaver

In this episode, Susan Lambert sits down with Kareem Weaver to discuss change management for educators implementing the Science of Reading. Kareem Weaver is a member of the Oakland NAACP Education Committee and a leader of the organization Full and Complete Reading is a Universal Mandate (FULCRUM). He was also an award-winning teacher and administrator in Oakland, California, and Columbia, South Carolina. Kareem discusses what the Science of Reading is at the simplest level and why it’s important that educators are undivided in backing the research. He goes on to give an impassioned plea to educators to come together, because this is an issue that impacts all kids. Kareem also highlights the importance of meeting educators where they are and realizing that change cannot happen if teachers aren’t given the tools and support they need first. Lastly, Kareem calls for systemic changes to education so that teachers can do their jobs in a way that is balanced, sustainable, and ultimately benefits the students.

Quotes:
“In order to save our kids and to get them competitive in the information age, they have to be able to access information. And so we’ve got to focus on literacy.” —Kareem Weaver

Show Notes:

FULCRUM: Full and Complete Reading is a Universal Mandate

Episode Timestamps*
1:00: Who is Kareem Weaver?
3:00: Shortcoming in undergraduate education prorgrams
4:00: Diagnosing Dyslexia
9:00: The meaning of "the Science of Reading"
12:00: Literacy is an issue that affects everybody
16:00 FULCRUM organization and its origins
21:00: What does FULCRUM stand for?
23:00: Literacy, equity, and incarceration
32:00: Change management
46:00: Making the shift to the Science of Reading
50:00: Supporting teachers
57:00: Science of Reading movement: Opportunities and concerns

*Timestamps are approximate, rounded to nearest minute