Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) is proud to recognize the dedication of educators who have completed Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS) professional learning—a comprehensive, multi-year endeavor grounded in the science of reading for grades kindergarten through 5.
Strengthening early literacy takes more than a single training or tool. It takes time, persistence and a shared commitment across schools and classrooms. Since fall 2022, of the over 2000 general education classroom, English Learner (EL) teachers, and Special Education teachers, more than 950 LCPS educators have completed Volume 1 of LETRS training, and more than 550 have completed Volume 2. This investment in teacher learning reflects the division’s long-term commitment to literacy and to every student’s ability to read, write and communicate with confidence.
“Teaching reading is not just instructional—it’s transformational. When educators commit to deepening their understanding of how literacy develops, they’re not only changing how they teach, they’re changing lives,” said Kathryn Neal, Supervisor, Early Literacy, Elementary Reading and Writing Office. “Our teachers believe this and continue to make a positive impact every single day.”
LETRS is not a curriculum. It is an in-depth exploration of how literacy develops and how to support students who struggle. Grounded in decades of reading research, the program includes approximately 180 hours of professional learning through online coursework, in-person learning sessions, independent reading and classroom application.
The program’s impact extends far beyond the hours logged. LETRS equips teachers with the knowledge and tools to support literacy development for all learners, from emerging readers to those needing intervention. It builds a consistent, research-based approach to literacy instruction that spans classrooms, grade levels and curricula.
This professional learning also aligns closely with the LCPS Instructional Framework, particularly in building teacher clarity, responsive instruction and student ownership—key drivers of high-quality, equitable instruction across all content areas.
As one of LCPS’s most comprehensive professional learning initiatives, LETRS supports the division’s strategic commitments to equity, excellence and access. It also reinforces our goal of preparing all students to meet the LCPS Profile of a Graduate.
Literacy is the gateway to all learning. Thanks to the resilience and resolve of LCPS educators, students are gaining the foundational skills they need to thrive—not just in the classroom, but for life.
Congratulations to all our LETRS-trained educators—past, present and future—and thank you for your continued commitment to the science, art and heart of teaching reading.