The way we work.
SLC customizes our support to the needs of our partners. SLC specializes in providing research-based professional learning experiences that engage teachers as learners in research-based instructional practices. We work with our partners to support implementation of new learning by creating a safe environment for change. We also ensure that all stakeholders develop a consistent and coherent vision of the work. SLC works side-by-side instructional leaders to develop implementation benchmarks and tools for monitoring them.
SLC specializes in providing regular, job-embedded professional development in literacy: reading, writing, communicating, language arts curriculum, interventions, data analysis, and disciplinary literacy.
What we believe.
Literacy is the foundation of ALL learning. Our mission is to ensure that all students have access to rigorous and engaging learning environments by having strong foundational literacy skills and through quality literacy instruction along the way. We know the science of learning to read. We know high-leverage instructional practices that advance and refine students reading, writing, and speaking skills that provide them with access to content learning.
We believe in the power of teachers. Teachers can make an immediate difference in the growth of student learning. We work directly with and alongside teachers to plan for student learning, grow and refine their literacy instructional practices, support their reflection and efficacy.
We believe in a systems approach to improving student learning. Principals matter. The principal sets the tone as the school’s instructional leader, reinforcing the positive, and convincing students, parents, and teachers that all children can learn and improve academically. We work side-by-side the school principal and district leaders to ensure there is a clear vision of instruction and methods for supporting implementation of new learning and continuous improvement.
The support we provide.
We provide learning sessions and coaching on the following PK-12 topics:
Creating effective district-wide and school-based structures for literacy instruction
Developing multi-tiered systems of support for literacy
Developing comprehensive assessment plans
Monitoring assessments and engaging in meaningful data conversations that inform instruction
Classroom management techniques
Developing writing fluency, form, and correctness
Writing-to-learn instructional practices
Academically productive talk and student collaboration
Supporting PLCc and continuous learning through PDSA cycles
District and school-based literacy audits
Scientifically Based Reading Research (SBRR) and instruction
The 5 components of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary development, fluency, and comprehension
SBRR strategies for teaching English learners
Interventions for underperforming readers
Best practices in English language arts instruction
Creating literacy-rich environments
Disciplinary literacy instructional practices across content areas
Vocabulary instruction
Effective formative assessment practices