BY JILLIAN KASTER, Community and Advocacy Manager
Growing up with undiagnosed dyslexia, I had to navigate several challenges. Now, as an educator and community manager immersed in research, I understand that learning should happen in a safe, supportive environment (Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs). This holds true just as much for professional adults as for our young students. This truth is why I am ecstatic to announce the re-launch of The Science of Reading CollectiveTM (The SoR Collective). Here, I want to share how my personal experiences with dyslexia, teaching, and tutoring have shaped this vibrant community for educators, empowering us all to grow and thrive together.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, 66 percent of U.S. students do not read proficiently. Overcoming this daunting statistic might seem like an insurmountable challenge. Still, my experience with dyslexia has taught me that resiliency and strategy can help you overcome even the most challenging obstacles. These two themes are at the heart of The Science of Reading Collective.
As Pamela Snow and Juel noted in 2005, “Explicit teaching of alphabetic decoding skills is helpful for all children, harmful for none, and crucial for some.” The strategies that helped me as a striving reader benefit everyone. And just as “a rising tide lifts all boats,” The Science of Reading Collective aims to elevate all students by providing rigorously vetted, research-aligned resources for the educators working with them. This ensures that what you find here helps turn the tide of literacy in our nation.
Creating a Safe Space for Learning
When I first ventured into online educational communities as an educator, I quickly realized how intimidating they could be. Many of us have experienced the frustration of being judged for asking questions in Facebook groups or feeling isolated in our struggles. That’s why we designed The SoR Collective as a safe haven—a space where educators can ask questions without fear of judgment and learn in a supportive environment.
Learners thrive when we feel secure, and The SoR Collective is committed to fostering that atmosphere. Here, we celebrate curiosity; every question is a stepping stone to deeper understanding and growth.
Building a Network of Strength
As someone with dyslexia, I’ve learned that my greatest asset is my network. While I bring my unique strengths to the table, it’s my team’s collective power that truly drives impact. The Science of Reading Collective embodies this spirit of collaboration. We didn’t build this community in isolation—it’s the result of insights and contributions from countless thought leaders and organizations dedicated to the science of reading. It’s a space where everyone can share their knowledge and resources, fostering connections that elevate us all. By uniting a diverse group of educators, The SoR Collective empowers us to leverage our collective strengths and create meaningful change.
Organizing Resources for Maximum Impact
As much as I appreciate the connections facilitated by Facebook groups, navigating its structure to find resources can be frustrating. That’s why we’ve made sure that The SoR Collective is organized and accessible, allowing you to easily find the information you need when you need it. Everything is structured to enhance your teaching practice and professional growth, from decodable texts and high-frequency word games to phonemic awareness resources and professional learning books.
Join Us in The Science of Reading Collective
The Science of Reading Collective is a resource for educators committed to evidence-based literacy instruction. Whether seeking free classroom resources, professional development, or a supportive community of like-minded professionals, The SoR Collective offers something for everyone.
I invite you to join us on this journey. Let’s make a difference in students’ lives everywhere by empowering them with the skills they need to succeed.
To learn more or to join The Science of Reading Collective, visit collective.reading horizons.com.
