Silver Falls School District teachers have been hard at work enhancing literacy instruction across elementary grade levels through a series of professional learning days this fall.

The initiative began in August during preservice week, when teachers participated in training to prepare for new curriculum implementation. Work continued in October as K–5 teachers dedicated two inservice days to exploring and aligning their new materials with the district’s core Wonders curriculum.

K–2 teachers received hands-on training with UFLI (University of Florida Literacy Institute), 

a research-based foundational reading program. purchased through summer school grant funding. Led by a literacy trainer, teachers learned how to integrate UFLI’s tools and strategies into their daily instruction and identified ways the program can enhance their existing Wonders curriculum.

Teachers in grades 3–5 collaborated around their new 95 Percent Group curriculum, which was made possible through generous donor funding. This program adds powerful resources to support reading intervention and comprehension. These educators reviewed the materials, shared best practices, and aligned lessons to ensure a smooth connection between 95 Percent Group and Wonders. By the end of the sessions, both teacher groups had time to dive deep into lesson planning and refine instructional approaches designed to help every student build stronger literacy skills.

“This work is all about ensuring that every student gets the high-quality reading support they need,” said district leaders. “We’re grateful to our donors and grant partners for making it possible to bring these resources into our classrooms.” Together, Silver Falls educators are strengthening the foundation of literacy for all students, one aligned, research-based lesson at a time.