In this episode of The Literacy Mindset Podcast, guest host Amy Katschke talks with Keith Pautler, principal of Edmond Memorial High School in Oklahoma, about leading literacy efforts in a large and diverse high school setting. With experience as an elementary, middle, and now high school principal, Keith shares how foundational literacy strategies transcend grade levels—and why they remain essential even for older students, especially English learners and struggling readers. He discusses how his team adapts early literacy practices for teenagers without making them feel “babyish,” and how they work to instill a sense of purpose by connecting reading to real-world applications in trades, careers, and life beyond school.
The conversation explores both challenges and innovations: the rollout of a new district-wide cell phone ban to restore the “power of presence” in classrooms, the use of AI tools to differentiate reading levels and make texts more accessible, and the implementation of universal screeners to target interventions more effectively. Keith emphasizes the importance of collaboration among teachers, the need for fresh resources at the high school level, and the critical role of helping students understand the “why” behind reading. His candid reflections highlight both the obstacles and the opportunities of bringing literacy to life in a 2,800-student high school.
Key Moments
05:58 Resource Disparity: Elementary vs. High School
09:40 "Finding Motivation in Learning"
12:16 First-Year Rollout: Digital Device Integration
14:40 AI-Enhanced Student Reading Support
18:20 Assessing Kids' Needs for Progress
23:35 Navigating AI in Education
24:34 Teaching Kids to Use AI
Why You’ll Love This Episode
If you’ve ever wondered how to keep literacy a priority in the whirlwind of high school life, this episode is for you. Keith Pautler brings a unique perspective shaped by leading at every level of K–12 education, offering practical strategies for engaging older students, supporting English learners, and leveraging technology in meaningful ways. You’ll come away with fresh ideas on motivation, intervention, and culture-building—plus a glimpse into how schools are tackling the challenges of AI, technology distraction, and foundational skill gaps head-on.
Connect with Keith Pautler
Website: https://memorial.edmondschools.net/
Follow & Subscribe
Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-katschke-86752929a
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindplayeducation
Company Website: http://MindPlay.com
Enjoyed this episode?
Subscribe to The Literacy Mindset Podcast and leave a review!
Share with educators, school leaders, and literacy champions passionate about student success, especially in Oklahoma and beyond.