In a vibrant meeting room filled with anticipation, educators gathered to discuss a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing literacy instruction across Kansas. The Kansas State Board of Education convened on August 13, 2025, to spotlight the Foundations course, a professional development program designed to equip teachers with the essential skills to teach reading effectively.

Dr. Lane, a key figure in the Foundations project, opened the session by emphasizing the course's unique approach. Unlike traditional professional development, Foundations is rooted in the science of reading and structured literacy, ensuring that educators not only learn but also apply their knowledge in real classroom settings. "Teach every child to read," Dr. Lane declared, underscoring the program's mission to provide high-impact learning experiences for educators.

The Foundations course is distinguished by four key components: knowledge-based learning, a community of practice, practical application, and dedicated coaching. Dr. Lane explained that educators engage in collaborative discussions, share experiences, and receive personalized support from coaches who focus on their individual goals rather than evaluation. This non-evaluative coaching model has fostered a supportive environment where teachers feel empowered to implement new strategies in their classrooms.

Dr. Carlson, a professor at Washburn University and a leading voice in the Foundations initiative, shared her insights on the pilot program. She highlighted the importance of in-person meetings, which allowed educators to build a strong community and address specific challenges together. "We are seeing real change," Dr. Carlson noted, as she reflected on the growth and confidence exhibited by the participating educators.

The meeting also featured testimonials from teachers who participated in the pilot course. They expressed gratitude for the consistent and engaging nature of the Foundations program, which they found to be a refreshing departure from previous professional development experiences. One teacher remarked, "This course has been something that I've been longing for... I never knew quite what I needed in order to serve them best."

As the meeting concluded, Dr. Lane hinted at future discussions on investing in literacy as an economic priority for Kansas, signaling a commitment to ongoing improvement in educational practices. With 1,500 to 2,000 scholarships available for Kansas educators, the Foundations course is poised to make a significant impact on literacy instruction statewide, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to become a proficient reader.