About Us
El Paso ISD is the only Region 19 ISD designated as HB3 Reading Academies Authorized Provider.
Since 2020, El Paso ISD has overseen and implemented the TEA-mandated Reading Academies, leading multiple cohorts including the Administrator, ELAR, STR, and Biliteracy courses trough blended and comprehensive models.
Since the first cohorts in 2020, El Paso ISD has been entrusted to maintain full fidelity to TEA requirements while overseeing all components of the Reading Academies.
This research-based based course is founded in the Science of Teaching Reading empowers educators with the knowledge and tools needed to deliver effective, evidence-aligned literacy instruction. First, through the online blended model and then transitioning to the in-person comprehension model.
Course Requirements
All K-3 teachers, including special education teachers and principals, are required to complete the Reading Academies course under House Bill 3 (HB3 June 2019). Also included in EPISD required educators are assistant principals and content coaches.
We support teachers across the district in three distinct cohorts as aligned with TEA expectations. Each comprehensive course includes 4 classroom observations and 4 coaching sessions.
ELAR Cohort: 10 professional development sessions.
Biliteracy Cohort: 10 professional development sessions.
STR Cohort: 7 professional development sessions.
Administrator Cohort: Ongoing support aligned to Reading Academies facilitated by the administrator Authorized Provider, Region 16.
The Reading Academies content is presented in our in-person professional development sessions through online modules. Each module includes overall module objectives as well as objectives for each chapter. Instructional material is provided in a variety of formats--text, audio, and video.
We follow professional development best practices, including the Tips and Tools framework, to ensure high-quality learning experiences. Multiple checks for understanding are provided through the platform and by cohort leaders, offering immediate feedback so learners can monitor their progress. Discussions and interactive activities create space for reflection and engagement, helping build a dynamic community of learners. In addition, learners receive grades for required assignments, including checks for understanding and submitted artifacts.
Module 1 Introduction the Texas Reading Academies
Module 2 The Science of Teaching Reading
Module 3 Establishing a Literacy Community
Module 4 Using Assessment Data to Inform Instruction
Module 5 Oral Language and Vocabulary
Module 6 Phonological Awareness
Module 7 Pre-Reading Skills
Module 8 Decoding, Encoding, and Word Study
Module 9 Reading Fluency
Module 10 Reading Comprehension
Module 11 Written Composition
Module 12 Putting It All Together
Strong Relationships and Culture: Our teachers are proudly served by our own cohort leaders. Because we are a part of the same district, professional learning stays rooted in EPISD'S values and shared vision.
Quality Support: Cohort leaders know and understand our curriculum, iniatives, and student goals which leads to the quality support each participant deserves. Feedback is prompt and communication is paramount.
Fiscally Responsible: Resources remain in the district rather than another Authorized Provider.
Professional Development in Action
The Reading Academies Team
We are dedicated to enhancing literacy across district. We believe that equipping teachers with strong skills in early literacy instruction directly contributes to greater student achievement. Strong reading skills serve as a launchpad, empowering students to pursue futures beyond what we can even imagine.
The Reading Academies team extends its work to include targeted support to campuses to deepen the understanding and strengthen their implementation of the Science of Teaching Reading.