Literacy experts in the making: AAPS teachers embrace science of reading training course

In a district-wide effort to elevate literacy instruction and reading proficiency, Ann Arbor Public Schools has embarked on an ambitious journey with the LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) professional development program. Over 150 AAPS educators are currently enrolled in LETRS through a grant provided by MDE and attend virtual learning sessions to support their learning.

To create an alternative for virtual learning, AAPS launched its first in-person LETRS Cohort. Ten AAPS teachers, led by four AAPS LETRS facilitators, recently completed Phase 1 of this transformative initiative by completing Volume 1.

Throughout eight monthly sessions, these educators delved into the components of literacy instruction, arming themselves with the latest research-backed strategies and techniques. Alongside their classroom responsibilities, they dedicated over 90 hours to asynchronous coursework, case studies, and collaborative learning, all in pursuit of becoming true literacy and language experts in the science of reading.

“LETRS transforms how educators think about teaching reading,” said Kristen Smith, the district’s Elementary ELA and Social Studies Coordinator. “Our LETRS participants are well-versed in theory but most importantly, they leave our learning sessions with ready-to-use strategies aligned to reading science. LETRS helps educators understand how students learn to read and write, recognize the reasons why some students struggle, and determine what must be taught to increase student success.  Having this knowledge is empowering for both teachers and students.“

The teachers included: Miriam Lipman-Hopkins, 3rd Grade – Carpenter; Tammy Culver, 3rd Grade – A2 Steam; Amanda Roberston, 2nd Grade – King; Nicole Zilio, 2nd Grade – Mitchell; Christianna Woodling, 2nd Grade – Lakewood; Brittany Hahn Pavlick, 2nd Grade – Pittsfield; Rebecca Landin-Smith, 1st Grade – Allen; Hannah Higgins, EL – Thurston; Rachel Taylor, BLC –  Thurston; Chelsea Froning, EL – Allen.

Facilitators: Charity Lemke, BLC – Wines; Katie Russell, BLC – King; Jenn Poliquin, BLC – Angell and Kristen Smith, Elementary ELA and Social Studies Coordinator.