The Impact of the Louisiana Literacy Coach Program in Region 9

The Impact of the Louisiana Literacy Coach Program in Region 9

By Kelly Morris, Regional Literacy Specialist

I am proud of the work underway in region 9. The Literacy Teams in Region 9 have demonstrated the critical work needed to support our students in Louisiana. They continue to ask questions about the Science of Reading and how to support their teachers. 

As Dr. Cade Brumley set this literacy initiative, I am hopeful that we will be able to continue this great work in Louisiana around the Science of Reading. I am confident that if we continue to help support literacy coaches, we will carry out the mission to equip our teachers and students and empower everyone through literacy. I can only imagine what our students’ may accomplish as we approach year two after seeing the impact of year one.

As I set out on this new adventure as a Regional Literacy Specialist serving the school systems in Saint Helena, Tangipahoa, and Washington Parishes, I never imagined how quickly I would see results. The Literacy Coaches in these schools were determined to put in place best instructional practices founded on the Science of Reading, which directly impacted student achievement.

Throughout the year, literacy coaches participated in monthly meetings where we focused on specific areas of need that led to building the knowledge capacity of teachers. A few of the most beneficial pieces of training this year; were analyzing data, effective learning walks, constructing, and implementing sound walls, coaching conversations, and providing specific feedback. It was a beautiful transformation to watch each coach significantly grow in their ability to effectively empower their teachers to meet all students’ needs better.

In Region 9, I look forward to continuing the work of closing the achievement gap by increasing teacher effectiveness through supporting literacy coaches with literacy programs grounded in evidence-based teaching strategies and training. I will continue to serve these communities to help empower everyone through literacy.