Literacy: The Great Equalizer with Dr. Sharon Roberts

Reading is one of the most powerful tools we can give our kids–it is a foundational skill that can shape their future success.

In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with Dr. Sharon Roberts, senior advisor for SCORE (State Collaborative on Reforming Education), to dive into the importance of early literacy. They’ll discuss why third grade is such a pivotal moment in a child’s academic journey, how reading instruction has evolved, and the innovative ways Knox County Schools is supporting young readers. Plus, they’ll share simple, effective tips for parents to help their children develop strong reading skills from birth through elementary school.

• 01:47 - KCS kindergarten reading lesson

• 02:39 - How Sharon Roberts began her journey into education

• 10:05 - The difference between reading and literacy

• 11:49 - What are sight words and phonics?

• 16:37 - The recent change in reading instruction

• 19:40 - The importance of 3rd grade reading proficiency

• 23:04 - How has KCS improved english-language arts scores?

• 31:57 - The impact of legislation on 3rd grade reading

• 37:26 - How parents can support their child’s literacy

Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He  also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.

Dr. Sharon Roberts, a Knoxville native, brings over four decades of experience in education and leadership. A graduate of the University of Tennessee, Dr. Roberts earned a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, a Master’s in Educational Administration and Supervision, and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction. Throughout her 21 years with Knox County Schools, she served as a SPED and 6th grade teacher, instructional coach, principal, and assistant superintendent, before becoming the Superintendent of Lebanon Special School District. Dr. Roberts spent 12 years as the Chief K-12 Impact Officer at SCORE (State Collaborative on Reforming Education) and now serves as a Senior Advisor. She is also the President of Leadership Innovations, Inc., where she provides leadership coaching and organizational consulting.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of literacy

• The evolving approach to literacy in the classroom

Links & Resources:

• Questions or show ideas? Email [e-mail]. 

• Learn more about Knox County Schools at KnoxSchools.org.

  Knox County Schools strategies for foundational literacy

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