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Meet the Science of Reading superstars at Windber Elementary

Hardworking teachers, schools, school leaders, and school districts deserve applause every single day. We try to honor educators and their outstanding contributions in as many ways as we can at Amplify—which is why our annual Science of Reading Star Awards is one of our biggest events of the year! We’re currently accepting nominations through Jan. 31. Apply now!

This annual educator awards program is a great opportunity to shine a spotlight on the teachers, administrators, and entire schools working to improve student literacy outcomes in communities across the country—just like 2024 Science of Reading Rookie winner Windber Elementary in Windber, PA.

We hope their positive impact on student learning inspires you in your work—and inspires you to nominate a teacher or school for an award next year!

The challenge: Driving success in early literacy skills

Windber Area School District is a small, rural district in central Pennsylvania. Its preK–5 elementary school is Title One and has just over 620 students, 54% of whom are economically disadvantaged.

The district has been dedicated to helping its diverse student population succeed for years, but getting young learners to excel in literacy has always been a challenge.

That’s why, when Principal Charles Beckley stepped in to lead the way, he adopted a fresh approach to early literacy learning experiences. Principal Beckley has worked in education for a decade, first in North Carolina then at Windber Elementary as classroom teacher, dean of students, and now principal. Under his guidance, Windber’s educators worked together to transform the school’s reading program—and offer inspiration for literacy educators everywhere.

Best practices: Embracing a Science of Reading curriculum

Principal Beckley’s leadership did what truly powerful leadership does: inspire and equip others to lead, too.

First, he and his colleagues had to clarify the why of science-based literacy education. “We had to understand the literacy research and the rationale behind why we needed to make the shift,” he recalls. They collaborated with outside experts to get the information they needed, then they focused on teamwork.

“The original stakeholders who led the push for the Science of Reading, they talked to their colleagues, they collaborated. They were understanding of their teams’ needs and wants. It was a team effort and a team approach,” he says.

They knew they were on the right track when the school board offered their full support, aligning everyone behind their vision for research-based literacy education.

Individual teacher awards: Also deserved!

The most powerful drivers of this change, says Beckley, were the teachers: “Our teachers and coaches had the biggest lift because they had to learn the [CKLA] curriculum.” He affectionately calls them “the neurosurgeons of our school,” and emphasizes their ability to pinpoint areas of need and build the grade-level foundational skills students need most, as well as their readiness to embrace change and dedication to professional growth.

Beckley further emphasized his school’s collective effort, which other districts can look to as a model: “Our community has been on board with this,” he says, “and our students have been great.”

The adoption of Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) was also crucial, providing the teachers with a framework and instructional materials that skillfully combined both skills and content knowledge.

The results have been undeniable. “If you look at our kindergarten,” Beckley says, “at midyear, [we] were 72% on or above benchmark through DIBELS®.”

Windber’s progress is proof of the power of an evidence-based curriculum that nurtures capable and informed readers—and of a community willing to deliver innovative literacy approaches. Their story is one of commitment to research, dedication to student success, development of shared leadership, and access to the right tools and support.

“We know that we’ve done the best for our kids,” Beckley says. “And that’s the most important thing.”

Inspired? Nominate a teacher, school, or district for an award.

We’re looking for our shining 2025 Science of Reading leaders now! Find the specs, our nomination deadline, and more on our Star Awards page. Nominate a teacher for an award.

Celebrating the 2026 Science of Reading Star Awards finalists

Three ribbons on a blue background: a yellow ribbon with paper symbolizing personalized learning, a blue ribbon with a rocket representing MTSS strategies, and an orange ribbon with a star.

Every day, teachers and education leaders guide students toward a future lit up by literacy. It’s not always easy, especially for those championing shifts toward programs grounded in the Science of Reading.

That’s why we’re thrilled to celebrate the finalists of the 2026 Science of Reading Star Awards! These awards recognize educators, schools, and districts who go above and beyond to make evidence-based instruction a reality.

Empowering students through literacy

The Science of Reading Star Awards shine a beacon on the champions of literacy—the educators putting research into action.

Studies show that systematic phonics instruction leads to significantly higher achievement, particularly for students experiencing reading difficulties. Literacy instruction grounded in the Science of Reading strengthens critical thinking by building the vocabulary and background knowledge students need to make meaning from complex texts.

But shifting to this instruction is about more than swapping programs—it’s about leading change and inspiring others. With these awards, we celebrate the educators and districts whose innovative approach does just that.

Here are this year’s categories and finalists:

  • The District Captain: For the district that exemplifies strong Science of Reading practices across the board
    • Keppel Union School District, CA
    • Traverse City Area Public Schools, MI
    • DeSoto County School District, MS
    • Colton Joint Unified School District, CA
  • The Literacy Legend: For the school that’s seen significant reading gains among their students school-wide when using the Science of Reading
    • Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School, NM
    • Faircrest Memorial Elementary School, OH
    • Grantsburg Elementary School, WI
  • The Background Knowledge Builder: For showing the world that the Science of Reading empowers students with knowledge, context, and vocabulary from elementary through middle school
    • Sara Allen, Spring Hill Unified School District 230, KS
    • Joy Villahermosa, North Slope Borough School District, AL
    • Jesse Muehler, St. John-Emmanuel Lutheran School, IN
  • The Changemaker: For showcasing exemplary Science of Reading routines and practices, and serving as an inspiration to others on the journey
    • Olivia Eastwood, Dedham Public School District, MA
    • Amy Sell, Lower Dauphin School District, PA
    • Rob Murray, Romeo Community School District, MI
  • The Comprehension Champion: For fostering deep understanding and critical thinking by expertly guiding students to make meaning from complex texts, ask thoughtful questions, and connect reading to their world and experiences
    • Kiera Bridley, Webster School District, WI
    • Sandi Bourque, Ascension Parish School District, LA
    • Rebecca Zandbergen, Kamaile Academy Public Charter School, HI
  • The Data Dynamo: For expertly using data to drive instruction within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports framework, identifying student needs with precision, and implementing targeted interventions that accelerate literacy growth for every learner
    • ZaTaya Rivenbark, Charleston County School District, SC
    • Yaneth Acosta, Buncombe County School District, NC
    • Diana Van Osdell, Northwestern School Corporation, IN
    • Kelly Scheurich, Stratford Public Schools, CT
  • The Language Luminary: For outstanding success in developing the skills and strengths of multilingual/English learners
    • Melissa García, Passaic Public Schools, NJ
    • Maria Monsivais, Cicero School District 99, IL
    • Yessenia Viera, Carthage R9 School District, MO
    • Jennifer Gomez Vallejos, Buncombe County School District, NC
  • The Science of Reading Rookie: For a teacher in their first three years of teaching already making strides with the Science of Reading
    • Johanna Vargas, Grand Island Public Schools, NE
    • Christian Watkins, Cornerstone Prep Denver, TN
    • Marissa Riley, Urbana School District 116, IL
  • The Writing Whiz: For integrating writing instruction with the Science of Reading, cultivating articulate and confident writers through innovative and effective practices
    • Joandra Mendoza, Rome City School District, GA
    • Jennifer Csolkovits, Walton-Verona Independent School District, KY
    • Caitlyn Bacom Dominguez, Cambridge Public School District, MA
    • William Strunk, South Bend Community School Corporation, IN

Introducing our 2023 Science of Reading Star Award finalists!

Roll out the red carpet and shine those spotlights—it’s time to meet the 25 finalists for our 2023 Science of Reading Star Awards!

These educators and leaders help light the way for the next generation. They’ve implemented Science of Reading principles and guided their students toward lifelong literacy. They’ve demonstrated expert change management and professional development. Get ready to meet some of the brightest minds in education as we celebrate their achievements and see what makes them truly stellar!

Join our virtual event and awards program on May 23.

But first…meet our 2023 finalists! Below, you’ll hear from the nominees themselves, as well as the colleagues who nominated them, about what makes them stars.

The Changemaker Award

For exemplary leadership in guiding a district through a shift to the Science of Reading.

And the finalists are…

Heather Campbell
Learning Coach, Sunset Elementary, Washington County District, UT
Why she’s a star: “Heather’s philosophy that all students can learn to read if given proper instruction has changed the data. Our school made the change and the data is showing our students are thriving.” —Shelli Campbell, Learning Coach

Javonna Mack
Lead Content Teacher, Caddo Parish School, LA
Why she’s a star: “Whether working with students or teachers, Mrs. Mack keeps best practices grounded in the Science of Reading at the forefront. She constantly strives to build teachers’ expertise in teaching students to read through content-rich professional learning communities, often on Saturdays or after the workday has ended.” —Shannon Southwell, Lead Content Teacher

Aaron Jura
Reading Interventionist, Bloomingdale, IL School District
Why he’s a star: “Aaron has been the catalyst for our entire district embracing this shift to the Science of Reading, and we are just at the beginning of this amazing journey.” —Nicole Gabany, Reading Interventionist

Nicole Peterson
Director of PreK–8 Education, Sampson County Schools, NC
Why she’s a star: “She has created, initiated, implemented, monitored, evaluated, and adjusted processes and systems to ensure that teachers have access to resources, training, materials, and professional development to ensure that all students gain equitable access to high-quality, evidence-based instruction.” —Matthew McLean, Director, PreK–8th Grade Education

Virginia Quinn-Mooney
Teacher, Northville Elementary School, CT
Why she’s a star: “Virginia has gone from one person with a personal commitment to advancing her literacy knowledge. She has now impacted countless educators, parents, etc., with her tenacity and learning journey.” —Nicole Gregory, Teacher

The Data Dynamo Award

For commendable use of data to align a literacy system and maximize student achievement

Shennoy Barnett
Kindergarten Teacher, South Smithfield Elementary, NC
Why she’s a star: “My objective is to help as many children as I can become fluent readers and critical thinkers. As a literacy specialist here for just four months, I made great strides with literacy with my students.” —Shennoy Barnett, Kindergarten Teacher

Anne Elizabeth Carter
Kindergarten Teacher, Wake County District, NC
Why she’s a star: “Through systematic and explicit phonics instruction as well as targeted language comprehension instruction—using texts that incorporate science and social studies content as well as build knowledge systematically—my kiddos were TRULY learning how to read accurately and fluently.” —David Gaudet, Principal

Bethani Ploegstra
Kindergarten Teacher, Union Colony Elementary, CO
Why she’s a star: “She takes data from mCLASS® DIBELS®, Lexia, and SchoolPace (part of our reading curriculum), as well as formative feedback from what she hears and sees students doing daily in the classroom, to immediately adjust what she presents next to students, whether individually, in small groups, or whole class.” —Mandy Bailey, Assistant Principal

The Knowledge Builder Award

For showing the world that the Science of Reading is more than just phonics, and empowers students with knowledge from elementary to middle school

Corey Beil
Instructional Interventionist, Quakertown Community School District, PA
Why he’s a star: “He incorporated literacy into his daily math instruction by providing our students with opportunities to understand and connect with the content more deeply. Our students were exposed to practicing literacy concepts while expanding their mathematical knowledge and foundational understanding.” —Julianne Pennabaker, Teacher

Kim Smaw
Principal, Rosalyn Yalow Charter School, NY
Why she’s a star: “She was able to persuade the learning community to adopt the Science of Reading, firmly convincing them that this curriculum could empower students to gain rich learning experiences.” —Deirdre Frost, Reading Intervention Specialist

Angie Dutton
Instructional Coach, Onslow County Schools, NC
Why she’s a star: “Her positive attitude about the Science of Reading is contagious and is most likely why other educators feel comfortable reaching out to her for questions and guidance.” —Stacey Horne, Instructional Coach

Nicole Brodie
ELA Grade 7 Teacher, Long Middle School, GA
Why she’s a star: “She encourages her students to use their [voices] for change and impact and supports them in their learning process academically, [socially, and emotionally].”
—Renee Dawson, Grade 7 English Language Arts Teacher

The Intervention Innovator Award

For admirable use of intervention strategies to get at-risk readers back on track

Suzanne Maddox
RTI Teacher, Robertson County Schools, TN
Why she’s a star: “Mrs. Maddox reviewed individual student data, worked with teachers, and began using CKLA Skills and the intervention materials provided with this curriculum to continue a sounds-first approach to meeting the individual needs of students.” —Brooke Callis, RTI Teacher

Sara Thornton
Reading Interventionist, Senior Team Lead, Schmitt Elementary, CO
Why she’s a star: “Sara’s enthusiasm for and dedication to her work has been an inspiration to all involved and has resulted in a successful transition to the Science of Reading—as evidenced by our students’ amazing academic growth!” —Hayley Gunter, Reading Interventionist, Senior Team Lead

Markaya Aga
Reading Interventionist, Merit Academy, CO
Why she’s a star: “Since she has come on board at our school, the mindset around literacy and the growth of our programming [has improved] ten-fold. We need more educators like Markaya!” —Allison Hanson, Reading Interventionist

The Language Luminary Award

For outstanding success in developing the skills and strengths of emergent bilingual students

Wanda Ramirez
Grade 2 Teacher, El Sol Science and Arts Academy, CA
Why she’s a star: “We used to emphasize to students that what they know in one language cannot be used in the other language. Now, as a dual-immersion educator, I have the opportunity to change that mindset, teach my students to embrace their native [language], and empower them to use their entire linguistic ability. It’s a very powerful thing to be able to do.” —Wanda Ramirez, Grade 2 Teacher

Esmeralda Martinez
Kindergarten Teacher, Compass Community Schools, TN
Why she’s a star: “She has consistently worked on improving her teaching methods, tried new ways to engage the class, and worked diligently to support all of our students.” —Rachel, Marinari, Teacher

Christine Black
ESL Teacher, North Dover Elementary School, NJ
Why she’s a star: “We have a rapidly expanding ESL population, and Mrs. Black works tirelessly to ensure that her students are expanding their ELA skills in accordance with the major tenets of the Science of Reading.” —Dawn Gawalis, ESL Teacher

Rookie of the Year Award

For showing the world that the Science of Reading is more than just phonics, and empowers students with knowledge from elementary to middle school

Caitlyn Cockram
Teacher, Patrick County Schools, VA
Why she’s a star: “We have offered professional development in vocabulary and implementing SOR strategies, and Caitlyn is always one of the first teachers to sign up. She is dedicated to improving student achievement through research and evidence-based practices.” —Callie Wheeler, Teacher

Andrea Mason
Academic Interventionist, County Line Elementary School, GA
Why she’s a star: “Making the shift from balanced literacy to the Science of Reading hasn’t always been easy. But I continue to research and implement these best practices with my students because I can see that they are now on a path to becoming strong readers.” —Jennifer Ezell, Academic Interventionist

Mallory Pendergast
Phonics Teacher, Literacy Interventionist, Circle City Prep, IN
Why she’s a star: “As a kindergarten teacher, she led 100% of her scholars to be reading on grade level in the first quarter and maintained that momentum through the first semester.” —Sami Hyde, Senior Instructional Coach

ESSER Ace Award

For notable and innovative use of stimulus funds to help kids rediscover the joy of reading

Stephanie Hurst
District Literacy Specialist, Maple Avenue Elementary, NH
Why she’s a star: “She is also a voice on the utilization of [the] ESSER Fund—using the distribution of funds per federal protocol to ensure that the district’s lowest-performing schools have access to quality instructional materials and professional development all grounded in the Science of Reading.” —Mark Blount, K–12 Literacy Specialist

Callie Wheeler and Sara Vernon
Instructional Coaches, Patrick County Schools, VA
Why Callie’s a star: “Mrs. Wheeler played a key role in creating a culture of literacy within our schools, where the Science of Reading is central to the education of our students.” —Sara Vernon, Instructional Coach
Why Sara’s a star: “Sara has worked tirelessly to make the shift from the vision that was grounded in balanced literacy to one that is now making waves in Southwest Virginia with its Know Better, Do Better, Be Better approach to reading instruction.” —Callie Wheeler, Instructional Coach

Edie Bostic
Literacy Coach, Gallia Local, OH
“As a teacher, district Title I coordinator, elementary principal, and now district literacy coach, she continually champions the students under her care and is passionate about those students receiving the highest levels of instruction.” —Leslie Henry, Principal

Inspired? We are! Register to join our May 23 Science of Reading Star Awards virtual ceremony!

More to explore

Learn with and from other top-notch educators like you through our family of podcasts.

Listen to Science of Reading: The Podcast now

Meet the 2025 Science of Reading Star Awards finalists

Three ribbons on a blue background: a yellow ribbon with paper symbolizing personalized learning, a blue ribbon with a rocket representing MTSS strategies, and an orange ribbon with a star.

Celebrating the 2025 Science of Reading Star Awards finalists

Every day, teachers and education leaders across the country are guiding students toward a future lit up by literacy.

It’s not always easy—especially when they’re the ones championing and implementing shifts toward literacy programs grounded in the Science of Reading.

That’s why we’re thrilled to celebrate the finalists of the 2025 Science of Reading Star Awards!

These awards recognize the educators who go above and beyond to make evidence-based reading instruction a reality for students learning in their schools and districts. Whether they’re rolling out new district-wide literacy programs, coaching fellow educators, or introducing innovative teaching practices, these education leaders are making a real difference for students.

And just like the light from distant stars, the impact of their efforts reaches far and wide, shaping futures for years to come.

Empowering students through literacy

The Science of Reading Star Awards aim a beacon on the champions of literacy—teachers, administrators, and education leaders who are putting the best literacy research into action.

Studies show that systematic phonics instruction—one of the key components of the Science of Reading—leads to significantly higher reading achievement than alternative methods, particularly for struggling readers. Literacy instruction grounded in the Science of Reading strengthens critical thinking by systematically building the language comprehension skills—like vocabulary, syntax, and background knowledge—that students need to make meaning, draw inferences, and evaluate ideas in complex texts. And when you teach knowledge in tandem with literacy, you inspire students to become confident readers, writers, and thinkers.

But shifting to instruction aligned to the Science of Reading isn’t just about swapping one program for another or bringing innovative teaching methods into one classroom—it’s about leading change, engaging stakeholders, and being an inspiration to others.

These awards celebrate the educators, schools, and districts whose innovative approach to literacy is doing just that. Here’s a look at this year’s categories and finalists:

  • District: The District Captain For the leaders bringing Science of Reading practices to life across entire districts
    • Puyallup School District, WA
    • Celina City Schools, OH
    • Waukegan CUSD #60, IL
    • Madison County School District, MS
  • School: The Literacy Legend For the school that has seen significant reading gains among their students school-wide when using the Science of Reading
    • Angie Grant Elementary School, Benton School District, AR
    • Bataan Memorial Primary School, Port Clinton City School District, OH
    • Bruin Point Elementary School, Carbon School District, UT
  • Individual: The Changemaker For showcasing exemplary Science of Reading routines and practices, and serving as an inspiration to others on the journey
    • Stephanie Wilcox, District Elementary School Improvement Specialist, Redmond School District, OR
    • Emily Tessalone Garcia, Grade 8 Teacher, Passaic City Public School District, NJ
    • Reena Mathew, Literacy Coach, Suffern Central School District, NY
  • Individual: The Language Luminary For outstanding success in developing the skills and strengths of multilingual/English learners
    • Johanna Quinde, Teacher, The Nancy DeBenedittis School, NY
    • Dayana Orozco Rojas, Kindergarten Dual Language Teacher, Kannapolis City School District, NC
    • Eimy Maria Galindo Medina, Grade 2 DLI Teacher, Denver Public Schools, CO
  • Individual: The Background Knowledge Builder For showing the world that the Science of Reading empowers students with knowledge, context, and vocabulary from elementary through middle school
    • Ann Ingham, Grade 3 Teacher, Cedarburg School District, WI
    • Katie Chappell. Grade 5 Teacher, Rome City School District, GA
    • Demi Grosely, Teacher, Clarkston School District, WA
  • Individual: The MTSS Maestro For implementing a data-driven Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework that creates a thriving and robust literacy ecosystem
    • Samantha Umali, Special Education Teacher and Elementary K–4 General Education Teacher, Bering Strait School District, AK
    • Kylie Altier, Grade 1 Teacher, East Baton Rouge Parish School System, LA
    • Erin Custadio, Elementary Literacy Manager, Falmouth Public School District, MA
    • Victoria Green, Reading Specialist, Roswell Independent School District, NM
  • Individual: The Science of Reading Rookie For a teacher in their first year already making strides with the Science of Reading
    • Miracle Austin, Kindergarten Teacher, Guilford Preparatory Academy, NC
    • Pei-Ching Peng, Instructional Apprentice, Uplift Elevate Preparatory, TX
    • Todd Payne, Elementary Teacher, Renaissance School, WI
  • Individual: The Cross-Disciplinarian For skilled weaving of literacy practices across subject areas in the classroom
    • Katie Kirkpatrick, Teacher, Graham Dustin Public Schools, OK
    • Laura Horvath, K–12 Science & Social Studies Curriculum Coordinator, Harrison School District 2, CO
    • Christina Miller, Lower Elementary Teacher, South Bend Community School Corporation, IN
  • Individual: The Writing Whiz For integrating writing instruction with the Science of Reading and cultivating articulate and confident writers through innovative and effective practices
    • Michelle Luebbering, Grade 5 Teacher, Jefferson City School District, MO
    • Jennifer Dove, Grade 3 Teacher, Rockingham County Public School District, VA
    • Daphne Long, Teacher, St. Clair County School District, AL

From districts undergoing transformations to educators supporting professional development on the ground, these finalists are proving that with the right approach—and the right support—every child can become a strong reader.

Congratulations, finalists! We know the long hours, extra effort, and deep belief in your students that fuels your work. You’re making the future brighter, one reader at a time!

Learn more on our Science of Reading Star Awards page.

LITERACY CHAMPIONS

The Science of Reading Star Awards

Making the shift to the Science of Reading is no small feat. Every day, educators like you are successfully improving student outcomes in schools and communities, and we’re eager to celebrate your accomplishments with the Science of Reading Star Awards.

We’re no longer accepting submissions for this year’s Star Awards cycle. See you next year!

A blue award plaque labeled "2026 Winner" is surrounded by colorful speech bubbles with a thumbs up and heart icon, decorative stars, and highlights achievements in the science of reading.

Get excited for the prizes!

Exceptional accomplishments deserve to be rewarded.

All award winners will receive:

  • Honorary Amplify Ambassadorship.
  • Amplification on our website and social media.
  • A Science of Reading starter library.
  • Enrollment in Science of Reading: The Learning Lab for each winner and a friend.
  • Tons of swag!

The grand prize winners in the District and School categories will receive access to an exclusive library of professional development resources. The grand prize winner in the Individual category will be given full conference registration and associated travel costs to The Annual Conference of The Reading League.

Recognizing leaders in education

Learning to read is nothing short of a transformation—and at the heart of this transformation are literacy educators harnessing the Science of Reading to ignite lifelong learning.

Science of Reading Star Award winners shine bright, going above and beyond to light the path for students nationwide. Be part of the celebration—help us recognize these heroes!

A woman with long dark hair, wearing a blazer and white top, smiles at the camera against a dark background, embodying confidence and expertise in the science of reading.
“Receiving this award is really an honor. It’s an amazing feeling to be recognized for work that I care so deeply about. At the same time I have to dedicate this award to the amazing educators that I work with, and the supportive administrators that we’ve had along the way.”

—Reena Mathew, Literacy Coach

Suffern Central School District, NY

An award category for everyone!

White icon of a school building with a clock on an orange, flag-shaped background, representing dedication to the science of reading.

District:
The District Captain

This award honors a district that exemplifies strong Science of Reading practices across the board.

A blue rectangular banner with a curled top-right corner displays a white book icon with horizontal lines, symbolizing the science of reading.

School:
The Literacy Legend

This award honors a school that has seen significant reading gains among their students school-wide when using the Science of Reading.

Yellow rectangular icon with a folded top-right corner and a white brain graphic in the center, representing the science of reading, set against a light gray background.

Individual:
The Background Knowledge Builder

This award is for showing the world that the Science of Reading empowers students with knowledge, context, and vocabulary from elementary through middle school.

A yellow, rectangular flag icon with a white graphic of a person wearing a helmet and holding a device, resembling an astronaut or robot—symbolizing exploration much like the science of reading uncovers new frontiers in literacy.

Individual:
The Changemaker

This award is for showcasing exemplary Science of Reading routines and practices, and serving as an inspiration to others on the journey.

An orange flag-shaped icon with a white pencil and ruler crossed in the center, symbolizing design or editing tools inspired by the science of reading.

Individual:
The Comprehension Champion

This award is for fostering deep understanding and critical thinking by expertly guiding students to make meaning from complex texts, ask thoughtful questions, and connect reading to their world and experiences.

A blue document icon with a white upward-trending line graph in the center, suggesting data analysis or statistics related to the science of reading.

Individual:
The Data Dynamo

This award is for expertly using data to drive instruction within an MTSS framework, identifying student needs with precision, and implementing targeted interventions that accelerate literacy growth for every learner.

Blue flag-shaped icon with two overlapping white speech bubbles in the center, representing communication or conversation, ideal for topics like the science of reading.

Individual:
The Language Luminary

This award is for outstanding success in developing the skills and strengths of emergent bilingual students and multilingual/English learners.

A yellow vertical banner with a white rocket icon in the center, a folded top-right corner, and subtle nods to the science of reading.

Individual:
The Science of Reading Rookie

This award is for a teacher in their first three years of teaching, already making strides with the Science of Reading.

An orange rectangular icon with a folded top-right corner, featuring a white fountain pen nib symbol in the center, representing tools used in the science of reading.

Individual:
The Writing Whiz

This award is for integrating writing instruction with the Science of Reading, cultivating articulate and confident writers through innovative and effective practices.

A person with wavy, shoulder-length blonde hair smiles at the camera outdoors, wearing a black top, black jacket, and a round pendant necklace. Greenery is blurred in the background, hinting at a relaxed moment away from studying the science of reading.
“I’ve been teaching for 17 years, so getting this award after starting to integrate the Science of Reading really validated what I was doing, solidified it in my classroom, and made me realize that I was doing the right thing after all.”

—Jennifer Dove, Grade 3 Teacher

Rockingham County, Virginia

Submit a nomination to the Science of Reading Star Awards!

Entry is quick and simple—just provide the required information and an overview of the nominee you think deserves recognition.

  • You may submit multiple entries, but please nominate for only one category at a time.
  • Your submission can include an overview of the educator, school, or district’s journey with the Science of Reading; how they overcame challenges; how they are empowering their students with the Science of Reading; how they implemented strong Science of Reading practices; and/or what results they are seeing.
  • The more specific you can be in your submission, the better! If data is a big part of your story, we’d love to hear about it.
  • As part of your entry, you agree to allow us to contact you about the details of your application.
  • A member of the team will be in contact by March 2026 if you are short-listed as a finalist.

Season 9, Special Episode

Award-winning ways to put science into practice

Amplify’s 2024 Science of Reading Star Award winners share insights from their daily work. They reflect on why it’s so critical to stay grounded in evidence-based literacy practices and how they bring those practices into their schools and classrooms. Listeners will be inspired by the creative ideas of educators who are making a difference in the lives of students across the country. Winners honored in the episode in order of appearance are: Amber Hines, Vance County Schools, NC; Elizabeth Caton, Windber Area Elementary School, PA; Jamie Vannoy, Wirt County Primary Center, WV; Christine Michalik, Cicero School District 99, IL; Andrea Mason, County Line Elementary School, GA; A. Simone McQuaige, Prince George’s County Public Schools, MD.

Join Science of Reading: The Community to connect with fellow educators.

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Transcripts and additional resources:

Apply for the 2025 Amplify Science of Reading Star Awards
Learn more about our 2024 Star Award winners
Subscribe to Beyond My Years
Transcript

Meet Our Guest(s):

Illustration of a gold trophy with a star, an orange and yellow award ribbon, and a pink and purple ribbon with a book symbol, surrounded by small stars—representing Science of Reading awards for excellence in evidence-based practices.

Amber Hines, Elizabeth Caton, Jamie Vannoy, Christine Michalik, Andrea Mason, and A. Simone McQuaige

Each of the 2024 Amplify Star Award winners have transformed their classrooms and empowered their students with the Science of Reading. These educators and leaders have gone above and beyond to light the path for students to pursue lifelong literacy. Award-winners featured in this episode include: Amber Hines, The Knowledge Builder; Elizabeth Caton, The Science of Reading Rookie; Jamie Vannoy, The Literacy Legend; Christine Michalik, The Knowledge Builder; Andrea Mason,The MTSS Maestro; and A. Simone McQuaige, The Changemaker.

Meet our host, Susan Lambert

Susan Lambert is the Chief Academic Officer of Elementary Humanities at Amplify, and the host of Science of Reading: The Podcast. Throughout her career, she has focused on creating high-quality learning environments using evidence-based practices. Lambert is a mom of four, a grandma of four, a world traveler, and a collector of stories.

As the host of Science of Reading: The Podcast, Lambert explores the increasing body of scientific research around how reading is best taught. As a former classroom teacher, administrator, and curriculum developer, Lambert is dedicated to turning theory into best practices that educators can put right to use in the classroom, and to showcasing national models of reading instruction excellence.

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Quotes

“There is no, ‘Let's try this. Let's try that.’ When it's evidence based, you know that it's proven to be effective.”

—Amber Hines

“It's important that we are aligning our practices to standards and what the students are required to do—but also what they need.”

—Elizabeth Caton

“If we don't make a conscious effort to utilize evidence-based practices, we are going to be failing our most at-risk populations.”

—Jamie Vannoy

“All students should have the opportunity for multiple readings of the same text to build comprehension, to build fluency.”

—Christine Michalik

“It's really important to utilize assessments, [to] make sure that my students are getting exactly what they need based on the data that I get from assessments, but also based on the data that I get from regular progress monitoring.”

—Andrea Mason

“This is not something that can be just done at the schoolhouse. It involves the community and all of our community stakeholders.”

—A. Simone McQuaige