From Reading Research to Classroom Practice

Educators from schools across Craven County are taking part in three days of Reading Research to Classroom Practice, or RRtCP, training this week, with two additional training days scheduled for August.

This professional learning opportunity is designed to equip educators with research-based strategies for teaching reading to students with special needs. One of the key areas of focus is Specially Designed Instruction, commonly referred to as SDI.

Specially Designed Instruction involves adapting what students learn, how instruction is delivered, and the setting in which learning takes place. It may also include adjustments to who provides the instruction and when and where it occurs.

Because no single instructional practice works for every student, educators must be prepared to adjust their teaching to meet the individual needs of each learner. RRtCP helps participants make those connections and apply research-based practices more effectively in the classroom.

This training is a new iteration developed by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Funding was made possible through a grant from the North Carolina State Improvement Project in partnership with the NCDPI Exceptional Children Program.

Participants shared several reasons why this learning is important to their work:

“As English teachers, we have working knowledge of all the pieces, but with the new standards coming out, this will help show the connections.”

“It engages me to listen closely so I can better assist struggling readers and understand the building blocks and origins of language.”

“It takes what you learn from LETRS training and moves it into application.”

“EC teachers do not always receive this content, so I am here to help coach and provide support.”

Craven County Schools extends its appreciation to the trainers for providing this valuable resource and to the educators who continue to learn, grow, and strengthen their practice.

This training serves as an important reminder that educators are lifelong learners and that their ongoing commitment to professional growth directly benefits students across the district.