National Center on Improving Literacy

09/01/2026

Preparing for employment is an important step in building independence and reaching personal goals. For young adults with reading disabilities, knowing about available resources and workplace protections can make it easier to navigate career decisions and request the support they need.

This resource connects individuals and families with trusted organizations that offer information about employment, accommodations, and transition planning.

Preparing for the workforce involves more than finding a job—it also requires understanding workplace rights, knowing where to find support, and building confid

08/31/2026

We’re excited to be part of the 2026 Tennessee Statewide Special Education & Student Support Access Conference in Chattanooga, Tennessee, September 1–2!

If you’re attending, come say hello at Booth #301! NCIL staff member Wilsi Taveras will be there to connect, share resources, and chat about ways we can support students, educators, and families.

We look forward to connecting with Tennessee educators and leaders throughout the conference!

Learn more here: https://web.cvent.com/event/05bae587-e4d0-4cb9-938f-0c04ec0ec398/summary?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e0_tv2_a1demo0ebq5xcz&fbclid=IwY2xjawUCTQhwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMXlFWG5pRnp1amNtQkkyb3RzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeX2ZuN0ejTeuDDyr_zmdh6yYFkT5pkj4P-xYPZ0I4Bflvy-RgtYlX4brr_pQ_aem_9POZzmGefeGWfL9SG9fleA

Tennessee Department of Education

08/28/2026

Curious about how dyslexia laws vary from state to state? Start with seven quick facts in this one-minute video, then explore enacted dyslexia-focused and literacy-related laws across all 50 states.

Learn more at https://www.stateofdyslexia.org/

08/27/2026

Knowing what students need is an important first step in providing effective reading support. Universal screening helps schools identify potential reading difficulties early and plan instruction that supports student growth.

Learn about the key components of an effective literacy screening system and how screening data can guide instructional decisions:

Build a strong universal literacy screening system that supports early identification and timely intervention. Learn the key components of effective screening,

08/26/2026

Another great National Book Festival in the books! Our NCIL team had a wonderful time at the Library of Congress National Book Festival.

It was great to connect with so many families, educators, and book lovers who share our passion for supporting children’s literacy.

A few moments from the day, including visits from Andrew McCarthy, Director of Institutional Giving at the Library of Congress, and Emerson Odango, Lead for the Native Education Collaborative at the National Comprehensive Center.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by and connected with us!



The Library of Congress

08/25/2026

How do schools know which students may need additional reading support? Universal literacy screening provides an early look at students’ developing skills and helps educators make informed decisions about instruction and intervention.

Learn what to consider when selecting and using literacy screening measures in kindergarten through second grade:

Universal literacy screening helps schools identify students who may be at risk for reading difficulties early. Learn what makes an effective screening assessme

08/24/2026

Families and educators may encounter different definitions of dyslexia, but many definitions highlight similar characteristics. Recognizing these shared ideas can help create a clearer understanding of dyslexia and support conversations about instruction and support.

Explore what widely recognized definitions of dyslexia have in common:

Explore the common elements shared across widely recognized definitions of dyslexia. Learn how understanding these characteristics can support accurate identifi

08/21/2026

Heading to the Library of Congress National Book Festival in Washington, D.C., this Saturday?

If not, you should! It’s the event of the year for us book lovers. Stop by booth #101 for hands-on vocabulary and comprehension activities, practical strategies to help build reading skills at home, and free resources to support your child’s literacy journey.

Learn more about the festival here:

The 2026 National Book Festival will be held in the nation's capital at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (doors open at 8:30 a.m.). The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are required. A selection of programs will be livestream...

08/20/2026

A student’s vocabulary grows through conversations, reading, and meaningful learning experiences. The more words students understand and use, the better prepared they are to make sense of new ideas and connect with what they read.

Explore strategies for supporting vocabulary development and helping students build the language skills they need for literacy success.

Strong vocabulary is the foundation of reading comprehension and academic success. Explore evidence-based strategies for developing vocabulary through explicit

08/19/2026

Behind every strong literacy program is a team working toward a shared goal. School leaders help bring that vision to life by supporting educators, using data to guide decisions, and creating a culture focused on student growth.

Explore four ways school leaders can strengthen literacy across their schools.

Strong literacy leadership creates the conditions for effective instruction and improved reading outcomes. Explore four key ways school leaders can support evid