Listen to Parts 1 & 2
Part 1System vision, literacy planning, and leadership for improvementLength: 21:00 |
Part 2Tiered supports, secondary literacy, and building system capacityLength: 13:58 |
Companion Tip Sheet
Supporting Systemic Literacy Success
This two-page tip sheet highlights practical actions for system leaders related to collaborative vision, data-informed leadership, instructional leadership, educator capacity, and sustaining literacy improvement across the system.
Download Supporting Systemic Literacy Success (accessible PDF)
As You Listen
As you listen, consider:
- How can system leaders create the conditions for effective literacy instruction across schools?
- What role can data, professional learning, and collaboration play in strengthening instructional practice?
- Which approaches discussed in the podcast could be adapted within your own school or board context?
About the Podcast
In this two-part conversation, Jodi Sepkowski, Superintendent of Special Education with the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, joins Martin Smit of LDAO and LD@school to discuss instructional leadership and literacy development across K–12.
The conversation explores system-level approaches to literacy improvement, including data-informed decision making, early intervention, professional learning, instructional leadership, and multi-tiered systems of support. Jodi also discusses the ongoing work of extending effective literacy practices beyond the primary grades, strengthening Tier 2 supports, and building educator confidence and capacity across schools.
About the Guest - Jodi Sepkowski
Jodi Sepkowski is a transformative educational leader whose career is grounded in collaboration, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to equity. With over 30 years in public education, Jodi has held many leadership roles including Student Services Coordinator, System Principal of Special Education and is currently a Superintendent of Special Education in KPRDSB. She holds a Masters of Education from Central Michigan University and a Supervisory Officer’s Certificate, along with additional qualifications in Special Education. Jodi’s leadership style centers on building trusting relationships, fostering inclusive and identity-affirming environments, and championing the voices of marginalized communities. Through initiatives such as the Executive Function Pilot Project, the SERT Review, and through her work with SMHO, Jodi empowers teams to co-create solutions that advance student achievement and well-being. Recognized with honors like the Ontario Council for Exceptional Children Educational Leader of the Year Jodi brings a leadership style that is centered on building trust, fostering inclusive and identity-affirming environments, and is dedicated to creating spaces where all individuals feel valued and heard.
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