In order to continue support of local school divisions with their implementation of the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA), the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) is seeking K-8 special education teachers, general education teachers, literacy interventionists, and reading specialists who work directly with students with disabilities for more than 50 percent of the school day to participate in a Multisensory Structured Language Instruction Training. This professional development is based on the Orton-Gillingham instructional approach, which is direct and systematic to teaching language structure for reading remediation. It is designed to address the needs of students who have difficulty with reading, spelling, and writing including those with a specific learning disability such as dyslexia.

Approximately 120 participants will be selected through a competitive application process. Those applicants who have applied for this opportunity more than once will be given priority consideration. Participants who opt to use this training as one of the options for the required VLA training will be required to complete a University of Virginia Capstone Course which covers content specific to VLA implementation, including the new screener and student reading plans.

Participants will be assigned to attend this training at a regional Training and Technical Assistance Center (TTAC) or affiliate within a reasonable driving distance. If the driving distance exceeds 75 miles one way, the VDOE will assume costs of lodging and per diem for meals. School divisions are encouraged to provide mileage reimbursement for participants, but this is not a requirement. Attendance is mandatory for each professional development session; participants must complete all 30 hours of training to receive a certificate of completion.

All applicants who wish to participate may apply by completing the Teacher Application. A recommendation from the applicant’s principal, written on school letterhead, is required and must be attached to the Teacher Application. Completed applications are due to the VDOE on July 5, 2024. Once applications are reviewed, notification and registration information will be sent to participants via email within ten days from the due date.

If you have questions concerning this professional development, contact Christine Mooney, Specialized Reading and Dyslexia Specialist, at Christine.Mooney@doe.virginia.gov or (804) 750-8656.