Importance of Reading and Literacy Professional Development
What Teachers Know Changes How Students Learn
At Edwards Orton-Gillingham, we believe that professional development is not an add-on. It is the foundation of strong reading instruction. Teaching individuals to read is complex and deeply important work. It requires deep knowledge of language, intentional practice, and training that is grounded in the Science of Reading.
We are proud to be a contracted vendor for the New York City Department of Education, the largest and most diverse school district in the world. Our team is exceptionally skilled, with certified trainers, experienced classroom educators, and nationally recognized credentials in structured literacy.
We are not a publishing company. We are not a scripted program. We are a professional development company that works side by side with teachers, schools, and district leaders to help build high impact reading instruction in every classroom.
Why Literacy Professional Development Matters
Reading is not a natural process. It must be taught explicitly, directly, and with a strong understanding of how language works. But most teachers do not receive this preparation in their preservice training. Ongoing professional development helps fill this gap.
Without strong training, even the most dedicated teachers may fall back on practices that feel comfortable but are not supported by research. Cueing strategies, guessing based on pictures, and leveled reading routines may seem supportive, but they do not teach students how to read.
Effective professional development gives teachers:
- Knowledge of the structure of the English language
- A deep understanding of the Science of Reading
- Practical tools to teach decoding, spelling, fluency, and comprehension
- Guidance on how to use assessment to inform instructionA deep understanding of the Science of Reading
- Support in meeting the needs of multilingual learners and students with dyslexia
When teachers know more, students learn more. Our work is about making that knowledge real, accessible, and lasting.
What Sets Our Training Apart
We have worked with thousands of educators across the world. Our sessions are clear, practical, and consistently described as the best professional development teachers have ever received.
What makes us different:
- Accredited Training Fellow from Orton Gillingham Academy and Accredited Plus Program with the International Dyslexia Association
- Our team includes certified dyslexia therapists, reading specialists, and speech and language experts
- We understand the demands of large public schools and adapt our training to match what teachers actually face
- We build relationships with the schools we serve and stay connected for ongoing support
- Our training is classroom focused, research aligned, and delivered with care and clarity
Who We Train
We provide structured literacy training and support for:
- General education and special education teachers
- Reading and academic interventionists
- Literacy coaches
- Speech and language pathologists
- School and district administrators
- Parents and caregivers looking to support students at home
The best training I have ever received. I learned so much, even as a teacher with 25 years of experience.
Veteran Teacher
NYC Public School
Join Us
Register now and learn how to apply this model through high quality training and support.