Science of Reading Professional Learning

The goal of HB 253 (2026) is to ensure that educators across the Commonwealth have a strong understanding of the SoR and the instructional practices that support successful reading outcomes for all students. The legislation also phases out the use of three cueing approaches in instruction, curriculum, intervention programs and professional learning by the 2029-2030 school year. 

As of July 1, 2026, the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) has approved three professional learning pathways that meet the requirements of HB 253 (2026) and is supporting statewide educator participation in these opportunities through Read to Succeed funding. These pathways are designed to provide educators with flexible options while ensuring a deep understanding of brain science, reading development, evidence-based instruction, and the five essential components of reading (phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension). While all approved pathways satisfy the requirements established in law, they vary in depth, duration and scope to meet the varying needs of Kentucky educators. 

LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) and the AIM Pathways foundational courses provide the most comprehensive study of the SoR, offering extensive learning experiences that examine reading development, assessment, language structures, and evidence-based instructional practices in depth. These opportunities are recommended for educators seeking a deeper understanding of the research and its application to classroom instruction. The Kentucky Learning Hub introductory courses provide a flexible, accessible pathway for educators to meet the requirements of HB 253 (2026) while building foundational knowledge of the SoR. However, they are not intended to provide the same depth of study or level of application as LETRS or the AIM Pathways foundational courses. All approved PL courses track participation and completion for personal and local district and school record-keeping.  

More information on the KDE-approved PL options is included below: 

LETRS is a comprehensive professional learning experience grounded in the SoR. The course provides in-depth study of reading development, language structures, assessment, and evidence-based instructional practices. Thousands of Kentucky educators have already completed LETRS as part of the statewide Read to Succeed initiative. Educators who have successfully completed LETRS® will be considered to have met the professional learning requirement established by House Bill 253 and will not be required to complete an additional approved Science of Reading training. 

LETRS® (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) is a comprehensive professional learning experience grounded in the Science of Reading. Through approximately 160 hours of professional learning, including online coursework, reading, application activities, and eight live virtual professional learning sessions, participants develop a deep understanding of the research behind reading acquisition, language development, assessment, and evidence-based literacy instruction. The course addresses all essential components of reading, including phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. LETRS bridges research and practice by helping educators apply scientific findings about how students learn to read to classroom instruction and intervention. Participants develop the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver effective literacy instruction that supports improved reading outcomes for all students. 

LETRS® for Administrators is a professional learning experience designed specifically for school and district leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of the Science of Reading and evidence-based literacy instruction. Through approximately 40 hours of professional learning, including online coursework and four live virtual professional learning sessions, participants explore the research behind reading development and effective literacy practices. The course addresses all essential components of reading, including phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, while helping leaders understand what high-quality literacy instruction looks like in classrooms. LETRS for Administrators equips leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to support instructional decision making, evaluate literacy practices, lead implementation efforts, and create systems that improve reading outcomes for all students. 

For more information on the LETRS professional learning, visit Kentucky Reading Academies - Kentucky Department of Education​.  

The AIM Institute for Learning & Research Pathways courses are evidence-based professional learning experiences designed to build educators' knowledge of the SoR and effective literacy instruction. The courses provide flexible, job embedded learning through asynchronous modules, application activities, and collaborative discussions focused on classroom practice. 

Pathways to Proficient Reading (PPR) is a comprehensive Science of Reading professional learning experience designed to deepen educators' understanding of how students learn to read and how evidence-based literacy instruction supports successful outcomes for all learners. Through approximately 55 hours of learning, including asynchronous coursework and six one-hour Virtual Community of Practice sessions, participants engage in research-based study focused on reading development, language comprehension, word recognition, assessment, and effective instructional practices. The course addresses the essential components of reading, including phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, while helping educators connect research to classroom practice. Virtual Community of Practice sessions provide opportunities for collaboration, reflection, and application of learning. Participants develop the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver effective literacy instruction and intervention that meets the needs of diverse learners. 

Pathways to Literacy Leadership (PLL) is a Science of Reading professional learning experience designed specifically for school and district leaders seeking to strengthen literacy outcomes through effective instructional leadership. Through approximately 30 hours of learning, including asynchronous coursework and four 1.5-hour Virtual Community of Practice sessions, participants develop an understanding of the research behind reading development, evidence-based literacy instruction, assessment, and systems that support successful implementation. The course addresses the essential components of reading, including phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, while helping leaders identify and support high-quality literacy practices in classrooms. Virtual Community of Practice sessions provide opportunities for collaboration, reflection, and application of learning to local contexts. Participants develop the knowledge and leadership skills necessary to support educators, guide implementation efforts, and improve literacy outcomes for all students.  

KDE, in partnership with SchoolKit Group, is offering SoR professional learning through the Kentucky Learning Hub (kylearninghub.org). These asynchronous courses are designed to deepen educator understanding of reading research and evidence-based literacy instruction while providing flexible learning opportunities that can be integrated into professional learning communities, coaching cycles, leadership development, onboarding and individual professional growth. 

This eight module course explores the research base behind skilled reading and effective literacy instruction. Participants examine the five essential components of reading and learn how research translates into instructional practices that support all students in becoming proficient readers. 

The approved professional learning opportunities outlined above are designed to strengthen educator knowledge of the SoR and support the implementation of evidence-based literacy instruction across Kentucky schools. Through sustained learning, application to practice, and ongoing support, these opportunities help ensure that educators are equipped to meet the diverse literacy needs of all students. ​