Every parent wants their child to be a confident reader. But what really helps children learn to read? In this episode of the KSDE Insight Podcast, Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson talks with literacy experts about the Science of Reading, the research that explains how the brain learns to read and why it matters for your child. 

Commissioner Watson’s guests included: 

• Dr. Laurie Curtis, early literacy/dyslexia program manager on the Career, Science and Assessment Services (CSAS) team. 
• Jennifer Hansen, teacher leader consultant on the CSAS team and an ELA specialist at Geary County USD 475. 

Commissioner Watson and his guests explore the simple skills that build strong readers, like phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension, and share how Kansas schools are using proven methods to give every child the best start. Parents also will hear easy, everyday ways to support reading at home, from book time and word games to music and conversation. 

If you’ve ever wondered how to help your child become a lifelong reader, this episode offers clear answers, practical tips, and hope for every Kansas family. 

Tune in to the KSDE Insight Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.  

Be sure to rate, subscribe and share this informative podcast! 

"Ask the Commissioner" podcast segment answers parents’ questions about education 

Have a question about your child’s education? Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson wants to hear from you.  

Each month on the KSDE Insight Podcast, Dr. Watson will answer parent questions in his “Ask the Commissioner” segment.  

Encourage parents to email their questions to insightpodcast@ksde.gov — and it could be featured in the next episode!