Reading Rockets

Mission:
Reading Rockets is dedicated to bringing the best research-based strategies for teaching reading to teachers, parents, administrators, librarians, childcare providers, and anyone involved in helping young children become skilled readers. The organization aims to make reading research accessible and actionable, presenting "what works" in a way that is understandable and usable by both parents and educators.

Services and Programs:

• Comprehensive Online Resources: Hundreds of articles on teaching reading, classroom strategies, in-classroom videos, and parent tips in multiple languages.
• Reading 101: A self-paced course for pre-K to grade 3 teachers, offering vital information and strategies to help students become skilled readers and writers.
• PBS Launching Young Readers Series: Television programming that explores the stages of reading development, featuring well-known hosts and practical demonstrations for parents and educators.
• Classroom Support: Evidence-based teaching strategies, guidance on using classroom texts, and resources for whole-child literacy instruction, including comprehension, content area literacy, writing, and social-emotional learning.
• Support for Struggling Readers: Information on why some children struggle, effective interventions, screening and assessment tools, and resources for creating inclusive classrooms for all learners, including English language learners and children with learning differences.
• Family Engagement: Guides for parents, bilingual tips, activities for reading at home, summer learning resources, and expert Q&A to support literacy development outside of school.
• Books & Authors: Author interviews, themed booklists, book finder tools, and resources for building diverse and award-winning bookshelves for children.

Who They Serve:

Reading Rockets serves a national audience, including Louisa County, VA residents, by providing free, accessible online resources and programming. The organization targets educators, families, and community members involved in early childhood and elementary education.

Eligibility and Access:

All resources are freely available online, with no specific eligibility requirements. The materials are designed for use by anyone interested in supporting children's literacy, including those in Louisa County and surrounding regions.

Recognition and Partnerships:

Reading Rockets is an initiative of WETA, the flagship public television and radio station in Washington, D.C. The organization has received numerous national awards, including the David M. Rubenstein Prize from the Library of Congress Literacy Awards. Reading Rockets partners with leading educational organizations to expand its reach and impact.