Julie Scali is a deputy principal turned literacy impact consultant. Here’s how she went from helping one struggling student to revolutionizing how schools teach reading across Australia.
The Starting Point
It began with a promise to a fourth-grade student named Jacob who could barely read a word. As a new teacher, Julie made a commitment: “I’m going to get you reading by the end of the year.”
But that promise led to a humbling realization – she didn’t actually know how to make it happen. The gaps between research and classroom practice became glaringly obvious.
“I realized I didn’t have it in my mental toolkit about how to make that happen because university hadn’t taught me what is best practice and how children learn to read.”
The Challenge
Despite her success as a deputy principal, Julie faced several core challenges:
- Bridging the gap between academic research and practical classroom tools
- Finding ways to share knowledge trapped behind academic paywalls
- Helping busy teachers access evidence-based practices
- Creating systemic change from outside the traditional system
The Journey
Instead of staying within the constraints of the traditional education system, Julie chose to create a bigger impact through her own venture:
Started Small But Strategic
- Developed free resources for teachers
- Created weekly LinkedIn content sharing practical teaching tips
- Offered a free workshop that unexpectedly drew 600 educators
Julie hosted her first webinar with an epic turnout
Let Opportunities Find Her
- Posted consistently about effective reading instruction
- Shared bite-sized, practical tips educators could implement
- Built credibility through valuable content rather than self-promotion
“LinkedIn was very good for me. Being a professional platform, I posted content about what effective reading instruction looks like, tips for teaching vocabulary instruction – things educators want to know. I was only posting once a week because I’m not a big social media fanatic. That raised credibility and validation around my knowledge.”
The Transformation
In just over a year of working together, Julie was able to:
- Create Real Impact: Built programs that help schools implement evidence-based literacy practices
- Gain Recognition: Was invited to join Learning Difficulties Australia’s council
- Expand Her Reach: Secured a book deal to share her methodology more widely
- Build Sustainable Systems: Developed online modules and coaching programs
This success came not from aggressive marketing or complex sales funnels, but from consistently sharing her expertise in service of her mission to improve literacy education.
In May 2021 I had a dream and a coach named Lydia. And now a year later, I’m not just consulting – I’m finishing my first book. It’s been a bucket list moment my whole life.
Today’s Reality
Julie now runs Literacy Impact, working with schools across Australia through:
- Professional development programs
- Leadership team coaching
- Online learning modules
- Speaking engagements
Most importantly, she’s creating systemic change while maintaining flexibility for her family and life outside work.
“I absolutely love my business and jump out of bed in the morning to get stuck into it.
Lydia, in a short period of time you have helped transform me from a school leader with a passion for making a difference in literacy and learning difficulties. Your knowledge, guidance and support has helped me to develop clarity, processes and systems; that have led to wonderful feedback and outcomes for other teachers and school leaders, as a result of my work supporting them. I frequently rave about you to other people and your amazing gifts.”
Julie
Julie’s Advice for Others
For other experts considering a similar journey:
- Share your knowledge generously
- Focus on teaching rather than selling
- Let visibility come through genuine value
- Build sustainable systems that support your growth
Ready to Create Your Own Impact-Driven Business?
If you’re an accomplished professional ready to create a bigger impact through your own venture, let’s talk about how to make that happen.
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