In this episode of the Literacy Mindset Podcast, Jeff Pendleton sits down with Larry Brunson Jr., Director of Special Education at Victor Valley Union High School District, to explore the evolving challenges and bold opportunities in literacy education from grades 7 through 12. With over 26 years in education, spanning K–12 and higher ed, Larry shares powerful insights into the post-COVID literacy crisis, the reality of seventh graders reading at a first-grade level, and how collaborative leadership can reverse the trend. You'll learn how his district has turned professional development into a cornerstone for change, bridged silos between special ed and curriculum teams, and begun reshaping instruction through intentional, inclusive planning.Larry also weighs in on what the future may hold for public education, emphasizing the need for unity across school systems, including charter and district schools. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or policymaker, this episode offers a nuanced, hopeful, and action-driven perspective on literacy as a civil right and a shared responsibility.Key Moments00:00 Education Career Journey03:33 Early Literacy Challenges Persist in Middle School07:09 Curriculum Partnership for Essential Standards11:53 Fortunate Career in Literacy Education15:35 Alternative Diploma Pathway Collaboration19:13 Challenges in Teaching Phonics Techniques23:01 Rushed School Return Neglects Students26:02 Post-COVID Education Challenges29:21 Public-Charter School Collaboration Needed30:26 Collaborative Education ChoicesWhy You’ll Love This Episode:If you're passionate about literacy, equity, and education that truly works for all students, this conversation will resonate deeply. Larry Brunson Jr. doesn’t just talk about challenges, he lays out what leadership looks like in real time, with actionable strategies, heartfelt reflections, and a vision of collaboration that schools everywhere can learn from.Connect with Larry W. Brunson, JrLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larry-brunson-jr-63a9312bWebsite: https://www.vvuhsd.org/Follow & SubscribeHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-williams-624a1485Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducationCompany Website: http://MindPlay.comEnjoyed this episode?Subscribe to The Literacy Mindset Podcast and leave us a review!Share this episode with educators, district leaders, and literacy advocates who are passionate about student success.

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