Alaska LETRS Professional Learning Course Information

Empowering Alaska teachers to improve student literacy through evidence-based professional learning

To meet the educator qualifications requirement of the Alaska Reads Act (HB114), the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) is providing evidence-based literacy instruction focused on the science of reading at no cost to eligible Alaska public educators.

Through this course of study, educators develop evidence-based foundational knowledge and skills to deliver explicit instruction that positively affects systematic change in literacy outcomes. These impactful courses are based on Lexia® LETRS® (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) and Lexia® LETRS® for Early Childhood Educators. These courses meet the educator qualifications requirement of the Alaska Reads Act.

Why is This Needed in Alaska?

Research shows that only 35% of students are reading proficiently, but 95% of students CAN learn to read when instruction is based on the science of reading. And while teachers are the most essential factor in student success, only about half of teaching institutions effectively prepare teachers for literacy instruction. Teaching reading requires a deep understanding of the processes and science behind it. LETRS is the professional learning program rooted in the science of reading that empowers teachers.

Who is Eligible to Register?

Any Alaska educator is eligible to apply.

LETRS for Early Childhood Educators is designed for educators and staff who support early learning for children from birth to kindergarten entry. This course is approved for all Alaska educators who serve children in early childhood settings and in multi-grade classrooms.

LETRS for Elementary Educators is approved for all Alaska K–5 educators and administrators, including general education teachers, special education teachers, principals, and anyone who plans for, supervises, or teaches reading.

Alaska Reads Act Endorsement

LETRS for Elementary Educators and LETRS for Early Childhood Educators courses fulfill the educator qualifications requirement of the Alaska Reads Act.

LETRS is accredited by the International Dyslexia Association®

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CURRENT USERS

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For assistance, contact customer support:
800-507-2772 or
support@lexialearning.com

View Alaska LETRS FAQs

Earn Master's or Doctoral Credit

Participants may register with the American College of Education (ACE) to earn graduate or transcript credit for LETRS and LETRS for Early Childhood Educators coursework.

This professional learning opportunity supports the Alaska Reads Act educator qualifications requirement. LETRS is one of the FREE DEED-sponsored courses that educators may apply to take to gain science of reading knowledge and skills to improve student literacy. The LETRS courses of study will provide Alaska educators the skills they need to teach language and literacy to every student, especially those with reading challenges like dyslexia.

Acceptance is on a first-come, first-served basis so apply for a seat now. Participants are able to earn course credit as an out-of-pocket expense.

What is LETRS?

Developed by Dr. Louisa Moats and leaders in the field of literacy, LETRS teaches the skills needed to master the foundation and fundamentals of reading and writing instruction—phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and written language.

LETRS for Elementary Educators is an investment in teachers’ literacy knowledge and professional practice. Teachers gain essential knowledge to master the fundamentals of literacy instruction required to transform student learning.

LETRS for Early Childhood Educators professional learning provides deep knowledge of literacy instruction for the youngest learners. The more children know about language and literacy before they begin kindergarten and first grade, the better equipped they are to succeed in literacy learning and beyond.

LETRS for Administrators equips instructional leaders to create systems and structures in their schools and districts to achieve high levels of academic performance and growth in literacy.

Dianne Orr

Education Specialist 2

Department of Education and Early Development

The Alaska Reads Act underscores our commitment to equipping teachers with evidence-based training to ensure every student achieves reading success. LETRS is a transformative professional development course grounded in the latest scientific research. It provides educators with the skills and strategies to enhance any reading program, guiding students through the complexities of language—including sounds, spelling, and word meanings. This training empowers teachers to help students attain grade-level reading proficiency by the end of third grade.

Louisa Moats, Ed.D.

Literacy Expert

Author of LETRS

Teachers are the most important factor in student success. Informed teachers can explain language to students, including sounds, spellings, and word meanings that might be confusing. They use lessons based on reading science and understand the process of learning to read and write. Research proves it. Science matters.