This phenomenological study reports findings related to preservice teachers' experiences mentoring early elementary readers. Preservice teachers in this study were enrolled in a literacy methods course designed to develop their understanding of early literacy, including knowledge of the written code and culturally sustaining and historically responsive pedagogy, and prepare them for the Texas' Science of Teaching Reading exam. Within this context, we explored how preservice teachers worked to bridge multiple approaches to literacy instruction. Thematic results illustrate how preservice teachers sustained the lifeways of children through literacy as a social practice, created space for code-based and meaning-making skills, and learned to teach responsively. These results provide implications for a comprehensive approach to preparing teachers of elementary literacy: one that fosters knowledge of the written code while contextualizing knowledge in children's cultures, communities, and experiences.