Virginia Literacy Act (VLA)

In the 2022 General Assembly, the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA) was passed in an attempt to improve early literacy outcomes for students.  The VLA is based on the science of reading, which was established through many years of research from various fields of study, indicating the most effective ways to teach children to read. It involves students, families, teachers, reading specialists, and school divisions collaborating in an effort to best meet student needs.


 Division Literacy Plan (hyperlinked image)  Division Literacy One-pager (hyperlinked image)


Division reading specialists play a crucial role in enhancing literacy instruction across assigned schools. Their responsibilities include implementing professional development initiatives, providing targeted coaching, and guiding teachers in adopting best practices for literacy instruction. They conduct staff development sessions, model effective teaching strategies, observe and assess classroom instruction, and analyze school literacy data to offer constructive feedback to both teachers and administrators. Additionally, reading specialists may directly provide literacy instruction to students, either individually or in groups.

In addition to reading specialists, we employ a dyslexia advisor who offers specialized support for students with dyslexia. While performing similar roles in professional development, coaching, and data analysis, the dyslexia advisor focuses specifically on strategies and interventions that address the unique needs of students with dyslexia, ensuring they receive tailored assistance to enhance their reading and literacy skills.


Dyslexia Advisor & Reading Specialists
Cary Horne Dyslexia Advisor - Division [email protected]
Katherine Linkenhoker Reading Specialist - Breckinridge ES [email protected]
Lori Wentworth Reading Specialist - Buchanan ES  [email protected]
Kathy Firestone Reading Specialist - Cloverdale ES [email protected]
Jaimee Bralley Reading Specialist - Colonial ES [email protected]
Jill Quillen Reading Specialist - Eagle Rock ES [email protected]
Sarah Carter Reading Specialist - Greenfield ES [email protected]
Leslie Doss Reading Specialist - Troutville ES [email protected]

 

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