LEXINGTON, Ky. — A new analysis of Kentucky's Reading Academies shows that Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS) training is making a measurable difference for student literacy success, according to research conducted by the Kentucky Department of Education.

The Kentucky Reading Academies have rapidly advanced literacy outcomes since the program's inception three years ago, with increases in educators' evidence-based literacy knowledge, beliefs, and instructional practices, and in their students' reading scores, according to evaluation findings.

The research is particularly significant for students in upper elementary grades. Grade 5 students taught by LETRS-trained teachers over consecutive years had significantly higher reading scores than other students, with this trend persisting for special education students in grades 4 and 5.

In 2023, the Kentucky Department of Education partnered with ICF, an independent research firm, to conduct an evaluation aimed at addressing four key research questions about how the professional learning program shapes educator practices and student outcomes.

The findings come as Kentucky continues its push to improve early literacy across the state. The goal of Senate Bill 9 (2022), the Read to Succeed Act, is to support evidence-based early literacy instruction throughout the commonwealth by investing in teachers to increase student success in reading.

Over 1,800 Kentucky educators and administrators are completing the LETRS professional learning in Cohort 1, with multiple cohorts running throughout the state. The Kentucky Reading Academies is a comprehensive, no-cost, professional learning opportunity open to all K-5 public school educators.

Teachers who have participated in the training have reported significant changes in their classroom instruction. Through LETRS, teachers gain essential knowledge to master the fundamentals of literacy instruction required to transform student learning and create a more vibrant experience for each and every young reader.

The program addresses what research shows are critical components of reading instruction. Lexia LETRS teaches the what, why, and how of the science of reading, covering phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and written language.