Episode:
65
Karyn Bruneel, Scott Miller, David Noble, Vince Romeo: Literacy and System Change
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In this episode of the Education Matters Podcast, host Jason Buccheri brings together four Ontario education leaders to explore system-wide literacy improvement: Scott Miller of the Waterloo Region District School Board, Karyn Bruneel of the Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board, David Noble of the Renfrew County Catholic District School Board, and Vince Romeo of the London District Catholic School Board.
Building on a panel at EOS Learning’s Language and Literacy for Leaders Summit, the guests share how they have translated the science of reading into changes in instruction, professional learning, and district leadership. They examine why literacy remains foundational in a world shaped by screens and artificial intelligence, and why helping every student become a reader is a moral imperative.
The conversation explores the decisions that make sustained improvement possible, including restructuring leadership responsibilities, building staff buy-in, strengthening tier one instruction, and using screening and progress-monitoring data to guide intervention. The panel also discusses supporting older students with foundational reading gaps, including those whose early learning was disrupted by the pandemic.
The leaders emphasize professional learning that extends beyond a single workshop. They share examples of classroom coaching, principals leading reading groups, and school teams using student progress to guide instruction. The discussion then turns to AI, exploring how it can reduce workload and support practice while preserving critical thinking, relationships, and the cognitive benefits of writing.
The episode closes by reimagining education, from moving beyond age-based grades to providing support when students need it. David’s story of a young reader finally reading motorcycle manuals alongside his father brings the conversation back to the possibilities literacy creates: independence, connection, and the freedom to pursue a chosen path.
This episode is presented in partnership with EOS Learning.
About The Guest
Vince Romeo
About The Guest
David Noble
Throughout a distinguished multi-decade career in education, David has served in numerous key administrative roles across the board. His extensive experience includes serving as School Effectiveness Principal, Virtual School Principal, Elementary and Secondary School Principal, and President of CPCO for the RCCDSB. Dave holds a Master of Education in 21st Century Teaching and Learning as well as Supervisory Officer Qualifications.
Beyond system-level administrative responsibilities, David is an active instructor for the Catholic Principals’ Council Ontario (CPCO) Principal’s Qualification Program (PQP). Dedicated to advancing excellence in education, Dave views this role as essential to the future of the profession, leveraging the opportunity to mentor, inspire, and shape the next generation of compassionate, highly effective school leaders.
About The Guest
Scott Miller
Scott believes in creating and sustaining a culture that prioritizes student achievement, well-being and belonging and strives to establish meaningful relationships with staff, parents, families and community. Scott’s leadership focuses on ensuring that all students encounter success, experience meaningful learning opportunities and that they feel valued and celebrated.
About The Guest
Karyn Bruneel
Her journey with the Science of Reading began in 2018 when, as a Superintendent of Education, she co-initiated its strategic implementation at BGCDSB alongside her superintendent colleague. Her focus on curriculum, special education, and data-driven monitoring established a robust foundation for student literacy. Her leadership was later tapped by the Ontario Ministry of Education, where she served as the Executive Director of the Provincial and Demonstration Schools Branch, overseeing specialized schools and lodging programs for Deaf, Blind, Deaf-blind, and students with severe learning disabilities.
Now back at the helm of BGCDSB, Karyn combines her system and provincial insights to empower senior leaders. Under her guidance, the board’s sustained commitment to the Science of Learning has yielded significant, measurable advancements in student achievement, offering a clear blueprint for impactful implementation.
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About the Host
Jason Buccheri is a Podcast Host & Edtech Strategist, sharing insights on education, technology, and innovation while building impactful industry connections.
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