Adolescent Literacy in Action: Evidence-Based Practices for School Leaders

Improving adolescent literacy requires alignment between district priorities and school-level practice. This Lexia® executive digest shares what district leaders across the country identified as key drivers of secondary literacy success, so school leaders can reflect, align, and take targeted action in their buildings.

Many middle and high school students continue to struggle with complex academic texts. Outdated materials, limited collaboration time, and inconsistent instructional practices often hinder progress. This resource outlines system-level priorities, such as schoolwide screening, data-informed instruction, and evidence-based curriculum, and encourages school leaders to apply them through daily teaching and team collaboration.

The digest also explores the role of professional learning, shared planning time, and academic language development in improving literacy across content areas. It highlights how responsive teaching and inclusive practices can help students build confidence, close gaps, and engage more fully in classroom learning.

With strategies grounded in real district insights and informed by classroom realities, this resource supports school leaders in advancing adolescent literacy. Lexia® PowerUp Literacy® helps translate these priorities into action by giving educators the tools to personalize instruction, reach older readers, and achieve measurable gains.

When district vision and school leadership work in tandem, every student is better positioned to grow into a capable, confident reader.