Episode
97. Effective Universal Instruction with Dr. Sarah Brown & Dr. Kimberly Gibbons
- Published
- Jun 9, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3445
- Processing state
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- https://www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com/podcast/97
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Summary
Drawing from decades of experience in literacy, school psychology, systems-level leadership, and MTSS implementation, Dr. Sarah Brown and Dr. Kimberly Gibbons explain why strong universal instruction is the true foundation of student success. They explore what Tier 1 actually includes, why intervention alone cannot solve widespread literacy struggles, and how leadership, collaboration, fidelity, coaching, and systems-thinking all work together to improve outcomes for students. Key Takeaways: What Tier 1 really means inside an MTSS framework Why MTSS is about resources and systems, not “Tier 2 kids” or “Tier 3 kids” Why buying a new curriculum alone won’t solve literacy problems The role of leadership in sustaining effective instruction The importance of job-embedded coaching and ongoing support Why fidelity data matters (...and why it shouldn’t feel punitive) How collaborative teams build consensus and instructional coherence The power of strong questioning to uncover root causes Why prevention through effective Tier 1 instruction is more powerful than over-relying on intervention Practical first steps schools can take immediately to strengthen instruction Resources: Book: Effective Universal Instruction: An Action-Oriented Approach to Improving Tier 1 by Sarah Brown & Kimberly Gibbons Book: MTSS for Reading Improvement by Stephanie Stollar & Sarah Brown from Solution Tree (or on Amazon ) This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Sarah Brown: Website: https://systemimpactconsulting.com/ Contact Dr. Sarah Brown on her Website LinkedIn: Sarah Brown Ph.D. Join Dr. Brown’s MTSS Data Academy Dr. Brown…