University of Central Florida
Coaching, Coursework, and Classroom Impact: A Model for Foundational Literacy Instruction
This session introduces the Read2Succeed (R2S) Teacher Preparation Pathway—an innovative, residency-based model designed to address two critical needs: preparing highly qualified elementary educators with strong foundational literacy instruction skills and accelerating reading development for K–2 students in under-resourced schools.
Through a unique partnership between a university, a large public school district, and a nonprofit curriculum provider, the R2S pathway employs preservice teachers as reading tutors during their teacher preparation program. These tutors deliver systematic, explicit reading instruction using evidence-based practices aligned with the science of reading. Instruction is supported through comprehensive professional learning tools, including scaffolded lesson materials, annotated teaching guides, and embedded coaching supports.
This session will detail how the pathway integrates tutoring experience with rigorous coursework in early literacy, creating a cohesive, practice-rich learning experience. Participants will learn how job-embedded professional development—delivered onsite, synchronously, and asynchronously—builds preservice teachers’ content knowledge and instructional skill. Additionally, structured coaching cycles provide actionable feedback to inform both instruction and program refinement.
Early implementation outcomes indicate strong benefits for both preservice teachers and K–2 students. This session will share lessons learned, explore how ongoing coaching and course alignment drive continuous improvement, and offer guidance for institutions interested in replicating or adapting this dual-impact preparation model.