Embracing Change: Technology's Role in Literacy Education at Upper Darby School District
In this episode of Literacy Mindset, we sit down with Dr. Daniel P. McGarry, Superintendent, and Ed Marshaleck, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, from Upper Darby School District in Pennsylvania. Together, they share an unflinching look at the challenges and breakthroughs of leading a district with over 12,000 students, where more than 80 languages are spoken.
From rebuilding a once nationally recognized MTSS program to leveraging AI-driven reading tools, to implementing a district-wide device policy that transformed school culture, McGarry and Marshaleck reflect on how Upper Darby is navigating the post-pandemic education landscape with creativity, grit, and a deep commitment to literacy. Their conversation touches on early intervention, teacher preparation, secondary remediation, and the evolving role of technology in the classroom, highlighting what it takes to move the needle on reading proficiency in diverse, high-need communities.
Key Moments
00:00 Upper Darby Superintendent's Career Journey
06:07 Elementary Literacy Focus Revitalization
08:17 Early Literacy Milestone Challenges
12:47 Balancing Reading Interventions for Teens
16:01 Enhancing Metacognitive Reading Strategies
19:49 Balancing Technology in Schools
21:13 Enhanced Learning Through Tech Access
25:13 Social Media Discipline Strategy
27:53 Embracing AI in Education
32:45 Reading Books Enhances Brain Connectivity
33:47 Balancing Tech and Traditional Education
06:07 Elementary Literacy Focus Revitalization
08:17 Early Literacy Milestone Challenges
12:47 Balancing Reading Interventions for Teens
16:01 Enhancing Metacognitive Reading Strategies
19:49 Balancing Technology in Schools
21:13 Enhanced Learning Through Tech Access
25:13 Social Media Discipline Strategy
27:53 Embracing AI in Education
32:45 Reading Books Enhances Brain Connectivity
33:47 Balancing Tech and Traditional Education
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
If you care about literacy leadership, practical strategies, and real-world innovation in public education, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Daniel P. McGarry and Ed Marshaleck offer candid insights into the systems-level decisions that impact daily classroom practice, from training first-grade teachers in the science of reading to reimagining middle school schedules for targeted intervention. Their blend of vision, vulnerability, and boots-on-the-ground experience will leave you inspired to reexamine what’s possible in your district.
Connect with Dr. Daniel P. McGarry and Ed Marshaleck
Website: https://www.upperdarbysd.org/
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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-pendleton-2a614b26/
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Company Website: https://mindplay.com/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation
Company Website: https://mindplay.com/
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