Literacy Expert Louisa Moats Draws Over 200 Teachers From Across the State
American College of Education announces that more than 200 Indiana reading and literacy teachers attended a professional development conference at the Indianapolis Convention Center on Oct. 24 featuring literacy expert Louisa Moats, Ed.D. The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) and Wilson Education Center collaborated with the online college in sponsoring the day-long program, “Teaching Reading Is Rocket Science.”
Dr. Moats, founder of the LETRS(R) (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) Louisa Moats Literacy Academy, discussed code-based instruction, spelling phonology and teaching vocabulary, basing her presentation on Scientifically Based Reading Research (SBRR) and real-world experience.
Support for improved teaching methods includes statistics showing that 11 to 17 percent of children are affected by dyslexia, nearly 40 percent of fourth graders are at the national “below basic” reading level, and up to 80 percent of high poverty students are at risk of failing.
Recent data from the College Board further stresses the need for advances in teaching reading, reporting that scores on the critical reading portion of the 2011 SAT college entrance exam resulted in the lowest level on record. The cohort of test takers was the largest and most diverse in history.
“Teachers from across the state of Indiana were engrossed in the depth of Dr. Moats’ knowledge and her research-based presentation,” said Sandra J. Doran, J.D., president of American College of Education. “Her enthusiasm and commitment to enhanced teaching of reading and comprehension skills based on common core standards encouraged many teachers seeking to improve their students’ success.”
K-6 reading teachers have the opportunity to enroll in “The Foundations of Reading Instruction,” a five-week, graduate-level, online professional development course offered by American College of Education. Designed by Dr. Moats the course begins on November 28 and is the first in a new course sequence leading to a Master’s in Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a Louisa Moats Literacy Concentration. Teachers may enroll at http://wesc.k12.in.us/fotr.htm by November 21. For more information about this course and other graduate-level courses offered by American College of Education, visit American College of Education live chat or call 1-800.280.0307.
About American College of Education: The mission of American College of Education is to deliver affordable, online degree programs that provide evidence-based content and relevant experiences to improve educators’ knowledge, skills and performance. American College of Education is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC/NCA). www.ace.edu