Cheers to the next chapter ??
The Literacy Architects
We break down complex literacy routines into step-by-step plans and deliver PD to support you along the way.
Just in case you’re in a rush, we don’t want you to miss out on this limited time offer: Use coupon code LLN50-OFF for 50% off your first month of the Literacy Leadership Network .
Happy New Year! We hope you’re looking forward to a wonderful year filled with literacy learning, growth and collaboration.
While winter break may have you a little out of the groove, we’d like to share some 2024 encouragement as you make your way back to the classroom:
Teachers like you are brain engineers.
Did you know that the process of educating a child physically changes the structure of their brain ? That’s right – teachers (and caregivers!) are brain engineers! The work you do every day can result in the creation of new or strengthened brain circuits for your students. This is exciting news for educators using evidence-based reading interventions.?
Implementing the science of reading is a journey, not a race.
Research suggests it can take from two to four years to fully and successfully implement evidence-based programs, practices, or effective innovations. From learning the “why” behind the science of reading to navigating a new curriculum, and everything in between, implementation takes time. Be generous and kind to yourself as you work to put research into practice.
Your students are lucky to have a teacher like you that’s committed to learning.
In 2019, a national survey found that nearly 70% of American educators reported using balanced literacy to teach reading. And while in recent years many states have passed legislation that discourages or outright bans on elements of balanced literacy instruction, a 2023 study by the National Council of Teacher Quality found that more than 36% of teacher prep programs are still actively teaching balanced literacy methods to prospective teachers. All this to say, there is a good chance you didn’t get the training you needed to start strong with the science of reading in your first (or second or third…) year of teaching. And that’s okay, because you’re committed to learning it now.
“Just as learning to read is a lifelong journey, so is learning how to teach reading.” -Dr. Martha Hougen & Dr. Susan Smartt
You’re not alone.
Teachers across the nation are grappling with how to put reading research into practice as more and more states pass literacy legislation . With so many other educators working to implement best practices, it doesn’t just make sense to collaborate – it’s also more effective. According to a 2022 review of research , collaborative efforts that incorporate knowledge sharing among teachers lead to improved instructional practices and student outcomes.
If you’re looking for a community to support your literacy implementation, look no further. We’re not one of those professional development companies that trains teachers on theory and then leaves them to figure out how to put research into practice. Our 5- and 12-week Literacy Masterminds gives you the time and space to learn, adapt strategies to your classroom, collaborate with grade-level peers, and work towards full implementation of literacy routines that align with the science of reading. We’re also thrilled to open the doors to the Literacy Leadership Network this month, which provides a range of benefits to help literacy leaders stay informed, connected, and equipped with the latest research and expertise.
However you decide to continue your science of reading journey in 2024, we want you to know that we’re rooting for you. We know how much you believe in your students’ right to read, and we hope you know how much we believe in you.
Happy New Year.
What We’re Working On
Are you leading science of reading literacy changes in your district or school? It's time for you to be in the community with other leaders and administrators doing the same.
The TLA Literacy Leadership Network doors are finally open! This collaborative network provides a range of benefits to help literacy directors and administrators stay informed, connected, and equipped with the latest research and expertise.
Here's what a $49/month membership includes:
January’s LLN focus is Getting Up to Speed. Together, we will explore the difference between balanced literacy and the science of reading by exploring the fundamental principles of structured literacy and its implications for literacy instruction. Make sure to register before January’s LLN webinar on January 8!
Register today using coupon code LLN50-OFF for 50% off your first month!