Everyone Is Invited: Rethinking Pre-K Literacy with Jake Daggett
In this episode of Literacy Matters: Empowered Conversations, Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift talks with early literacy expert Jake Daggett about what effective literacy instruction really looks like in Pre-K. Together, they challenge common misconceptions, explore the power of oral language, repetition, and retrieval practice, and share practical ways to embed literacy throughout the day. Jake offers a fresh perspective on creating joyful, inclusive learning environments where every child is invited to build strong literacy foundations.
Thought Leader: Jake Daggett
Literacy Director, PreK-5 Educator
Jake is an Ohio native who began his teaching career in Milwaukee, WI in 2015. Having specialized in literacy instruction, Jake built a following on social media for his engaging and rhythmic phonics lessons and evidence-based structured literacy practices, even landing him on The Kelly Clarkson Show in January 2024. Throughout his career, Jake has taught PreK, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades and now serves as a Literacy Director for a school in Milwaukee, WI. In his role, Jake supports a team of kindergarten through fifth grade teachers in their implementation of the science of reading. In his spare time, Jake presents nationally for conferences such as Illinois ASCD, Plain Talk NOLA, and the Mississippi Literacy Association. He visits school districts all over the country to model lessons and work with teachers and leaders.
Get to Know the Host: Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift
Cheryl holds a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership, is a distinguished educational leader, and has been recognized with multiple awards for her achievements. She served as the lead curriculum developer for Learning Without Tears' Get Set for School Language and Literacy curriculum, which received an AEP Distinguished Achievement Award, and was awarded the Investors Bank Educator of the Year Award.
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