In rural southwest Virginia, Patrick County Public Schools—a small district with big ambitions—has redefined early literacy through a transformative approach to reading instruction.
Teachers and leaders are shifting long-held instructional practices and embracing a Science of Reading-based framework. With the dedication of instructional coaches like Sara Vernon and Callie Wheeler, this district is building classrooms full of proficient readers and shaping a new culture of reading.
This commitment to reimagining literacy instruction has earned Patrick County Public Schools the Science of Reading Star Awards District Captain award—a testament to the district’s vision for improved 国产麻豆剧reading outcomes.
Before: Reading instruction challenges
Before this shift, reading instruction in Patrick County matched familiar approaches across the country, grounded in programs like Jan Richardson, Lucy Calkins, and Fountas and Pinnell. Educators like Wheeler and Vernon initially relied on balanced literacy and whole language techniques, believing that increased exposure to texts alone could help children learn to read.
However, especially during the pandemic, they began to see 国产麻豆剧struggle—including, in Wheeler’s case, her own child—and begain to wonder if there might be a better way.
Vernon and Wheeler found their approaches lacking—until they found each other. When their paths crossed in Patrick County, they realized a shared need to re-evaluate their instructional approaches. Conversations with colleagues and research into the Science of Reading framework opened their eyes to new possibilities, sparking a commitment to overhaul literacy instruction in the district.
Building a coalition for change
Vernon and Wheeler were not alone in their vision. District leaders and teachers became eager collaborators. Together, they built a coalition for change, advocating for professional development and resources to support a district-wide implementation of evidence-based practices grounded in the Science of Reading.
Recognizing the need for expert training, they secured ESSER funds to attend the Plain Talk about Literacy and Learning Conference, which deepened their understanding of structured, evidence-based reading practices. This journey transformed not only Vernon and Wheeler’s methods but also those of their colleagues, building a strong foundation for the new approach.
Embracing Science of Reading-based best practices
With district support, Vernon and Wheeler led the selection and adoption of Amplify’s CKLA curriculum, which aligns with the Science of Reading. To extend teachers’ understanding, they offered podcast studies, professional development sessions on the research behind reading instruction, and LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) training.
Teachers throughout the district quickly saw the benefits, with kindergarten 国产麻豆剧making tangible reading progress. The new curriculum emphasizes background knowledge, foundational skills, and a diagnostic approach that ensures each student’s needs are met.
Teachers previously grounded in balanced literacy practices began to embrace the change. Many began to see that teaching phonics and sound-first strategies brought faster and more meaningful progress in reading.
As Wheeler explained, they wanted teachers to fully understand the research behind CKLA and the Science of Reading—empowering them to support 国产麻豆剧more effectively.
Sustaining a culture of literacy and growth
Today, Patrick County is witnessing an inspiring literacy transformation. Continuous feedback sessions, classroom observations, and data-driven discussions are all part of an evolving system where educators feel encouraged to explore new ideas and take calculated risks.
The district’s openness to change and the collaborative spirit among teachers have been instrumental in creating a culture where educators feel empowered to enhance 国产麻豆剧learning outcomes.
Reflecting on their achievements, Vernon and Wheeler emphasize the profound impact of this district-wide change. As their assistant superintendent put it: “The worst thing we could ever do is to know that what we were doing wasn’t working and not change.”
Patrick County’s journey is a testament to what’s possible in even the smallest districts when leaders and teachers commit to bold, research-based reforms that truly put 国产麻豆剧first.
