From Struggling Readers to Success Stories: A Science of Reading Approach

"My aha moment was that combining quality instruction with access to the right materials while making learning enjoyable seems to be the magic formula."

Watch the Full Episode: Jenna Stuebs on Transforming Literacy with the Science of Reading

Just Right Reader Small Group Instruction

In this empowering episode of Science of Reading Leadership, we sit with Jenna Stuebs, a veteran reading specialist from Central Ohio. She shares how she transformed her approach to early literacy by embracing the Science of Reading. After 25 years in education, Jenna made a powerful shift from balanced literacy to structured, evidence-based practices—and the results speak for themselves.

From integrating multisensory strategies like Orton-Gillingham to leveraging Just Right Reader’s Science of Reading decodable books, Jenna has helped her students make incredible strides in reading achievement. Her pilot program showed measurable growth for students who started below benchmark, many of whom met or exceeded year-end goals.

But Jenna’s approach extends beyond the classroom. She’s built a bridge between school and home using multilingual phonics videos and culturally relevant stories that reflect the diverse learners in her district. The impact? More engagement, more confidence, and a stronger community of readers.

If you’re an educator or literacy leader looking to accelerate literacy outcomes with practical, research-backed strategies, this episode is a must-listen. Jenna’s story is proof: when we align instruction with science and joy, we accelerate reading achievement for every child.

"Children should receive intervention before reading difficulties really become deeply ingrained. The quicker we can catch them, the better the outcomes long term, I think. I also say providing a setting that encourages a lifelong love of reading. Our students are eager to read. Getting them in books early will help this ongoing positive partnership with text."