Learning to read is one of the most important milestones in a child’s education. Strong reading skills open doors to academic success, confidence, and future opportunities, while gaps in reading can affect learning across all subject areas. That is why Becker Public Schools has made a sustained commitment to strengthening reading instruction for every student, beginning in our earliest grades and extending across our system.

In recent years, Minnesota has placed a renewed focus on evidence-based literacy instruction through the READ Act. Grounded in more than 50 years of research, this work centers on how children learn to read and how teachers can best support students at every stage of literacy development. Our district embraced this effort early and intentionally to ensure students receive strong, consistent reading instruction.

We are proud to share that 90% of Becker teachers required to complete Science of Reading training have finished Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS). These educators include kindergarten through grade 5 classroom teachers, preschool teachers responsible for literacy instruction, K–12 Special Education teachers, and K–12 English Learner teachers. This broad participation matters because reading instruction does not exist in a single classroom or grade level. When educators share a common understanding of how reading develops, students benefit from consistent language, strategies, and expectations throughout their school experience.

A small group of 10 teachers newly hired this year began their LETRS training upon joining our district and will complete it by fall 2026. They are supported by a locally trained LETRS facilitator, allowing us to provide in-house coaching, collaboration, and practical connections between research and daily classroom instruction.

So what does this mean for students? Science of Reading training strengthens teachers’ understanding of essential reading components—phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Teachers learn how to identify reading challenges early and respond with targeted instruction before small gaps become long-term barriers.

Our commitment to literacy continues beyond the elementary years. In fall 2026, secondary teachers responsible for teaching reading will participate in a secondary-focused Science of Reading training facilitated by STRIVE, designed specifically to support adolescent learners.

These efforts reflect a simple belief: reading is everyone’s responsibility, and every student deserves strong instruction. While much of this work happens behind the scenes, its impact is visible every day as students grow in confidence and teachers are equipped to meet their needs. Together, we are building a strong foundation in reading that will support our students for years to come.