The Kansas State Board of Education meeting on August 13, 2025, focused on the LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) initiative, a comprehensive professional learning system aimed at enhancing reading instruction across the state. Dr. Curtis presented the program, emphasizing its evidence-based approach and its accreditation by the International Dyslexia Association.

LETRS is designed to provide educators with a common knowledge base and language for instructional practices, ensuring that all teachers, not just specialists, can effectively support students in reading and writing. The program is curriculum agnostic, allowing schools to implement it alongside their existing materials, which respects local control over educational resources.

Dr. Curtis highlighted the importance of structured literacy and the program's systematic training, which includes interactive online modules, in-person professional development, and practical application in classrooms. The training consists of four components: a manual, online modules, live training sessions, and a "bridge to practice" that encourages teachers to apply their learning directly with students.

The meeting also addressed the ongoing engagement in LETRS training, with over 12,500 educators currently participating. To sustain this initiative, the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) is focusing on building local capacity through trained facilitators who can provide ongoing support and coaching within districts.

The discussion underscored the significance of continuous professional development in literacy instruction, with plans for future summits and coaching sessions to further enhance educators' skills. The overarching goal is to ensure that all Kansas students receive high-quality reading instruction, particularly those at risk of dyslexia or language disorders.