How the Regional Office of Education is Transforming Literacy in Our Schools

By Carrie Brockway, Director of Professional Learning

At the Boone-Winnebago Regional Office of Education #4 (ROE 4), we believe that great teachers can change lives—and we’re here to make sure they have the tools they need to do so. That’s why we’re thrilled to share how the United Way of Rock River Valley’s United for Literacy Grant is helping us empower educators and enhance literacy for PreK-3rd grade students across Winnebago County.

Imagine this: a first-grade teacher logs into an online literacy course at home after tucking her kids into bed, or a cohort of educators gather for hands-on training to master cutting-edge techniques in reading instruction. These scenarios aren’t just ideas; they’re happening right now, thanks to the support of this incredible grant.

Supporting PreK-3rd Grade Educators with Accessible Learning

The grant funding specifically supports free and low-cost professional learning opportunities for PreK-3rd grade teachers and administrators in Winnebago County. We have launched several literacy courses on our Anytime Learning Library platform, offering educators the flexibility to learn at their own pace, anytime, anywhere. These high-quality courses are available for a limited time at no cost to PreK-3rd grade educators in Winnebago County.

Advancing Literacy Instruction with LETRS Training

Through this grant, we also made it possible for teachers to attend LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) training on-site at a minimal cost. LETRS, a two-year professional development program grounded in the Science of Reading, equips educators with essential skills in:

  • Phonological awareness
  • Phonics
  • Fluency
  • Vocabulary
  • Comprehension
  • Written language

Dr. Gholdy Muhammad’s Master Class: Literacy and Equity

As part of this initiative, ROE 4 is thrilled to offer an exclusive opportunity to LETRS participants and their district administrators. Renowned equity and literacy expert Dr. Gholdy Muhammad will lead a master class focused on culturally responsive instruction and the connection between literacy and equity. Following her impactful presentation, participants will also have the chance to engage in a Q&A session.

Dr. Muhammad’s transformative work is nationally recognized, and we are excited to bring her expertise to educators in Winnebago County. This opportunity was made possible through Dr. Devon LaRosa, Chief of High Schools for Chicago Public Schools and ROE 4’s Chief Equity Consultant.

Thanks to our partnership with United Way of Rock River Valley and their commitment to literacy, we continue to offer these high-quality professional learning experiences. Together, we are equipping PreK-3rd grade educators with the tools they need to drive literacy and equity in Winnebago County classrooms.