"DESE is excited to support evidence-based literacy instruction focused on the Science of Reading. The Missouri Read, Lead, Exceed initiative is the state's comprehensive plan to dedicate $25 million in state funding and just over $35 million in federal relief funding to support student literacy.  As part of this plan, up to 15,000 K-5 classroom teachers could receive training in Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS®). This course of study gives teachers the skills needed to teach language and literacy to every student by providing in-depth training in the Science of Reading. K-5 classroom teachers will receive this training at no cost to them or their local education agency (LEA)."

Why is this important?

• Aligning instruction with the science of reading gives students the best chance of becoming successful readers.

• The creation and development of connections in our brains, created primarily through instruction, is necessary for reading.

• Regardless of the textbook or instructional materials used, if the teacher does not have the knowledge of evidence-based practices and standards, all students will not acquire what is needed to learn.

DESE's Literacy Initiatives & Efforts | Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (mo.gov)