In this episode we welcome Dr. Laura Rhinehart of UCLA’s School of Education and Information Studies for an in-depth conversation about literacy, equity, and the science of reading. Dr. Rhinehart shares her unconventional journey from philosophy major to special education teacher and researcher, detailing experiences in juvenile facilities and charter schools that shaped her commitment to early intervention and equitable literacy access. She discusses her work at the UCLA Center for Dyslexia, Diverse Learners, and Social Justice, emphasizing reading as a basic human right and the importance of evidence-based, inclusive approaches to literacy. The conversation explores misconceptions surrounding the science of reading, the role of neuroscience, oral language, and how educators can apply scientific findings flexibly in their classrooms.
Laura Rhinehart is an Assistant Researcher in the Department of Education at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She earned her Ph.D. in Special Education from UCLA and California State University, Los Angeles. Dr. Rhinehart’s research on reading, learning disabilities, ADHD, and dyslexia has been published in peer-reviewed academic journals. In 2024, she received the Early Career Publication Award from the Council for Exceptional Children’s Division for Research for her article, “Children Who Receive Special Education Services for ADHD”, published in the Journal of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders. Her current research focuses on dyslexia, assessment/screening, and children’s executive functioning skills. She is also interested in developing and testing interventions for students with ADHD and/or dyslexia.
Resources Shared by Dr. Rhinehart