At Raymore-Peculiar, learning to read is more than a milestone โ itโs the foundation for every studentโs success. Thatโs why a growing number of teachers across the district have spent the past two years engaged in one of the most intensive literacy trainings available.
Recently, the district celebrated another group of educators completing LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading), a nationally recognized professional learning program grounded in the science of reading. The celebration marked the end of a rigorous two-year commitment โ and the beginning of an even greater impact in classrooms.
This work is already reaching a significant number of students.
89% of K-3 teachers have completed or are currently enrolled in LETRS
86% of K-5 special education resource teachers are participating
70% of K-5 instructional staff overall โ including classroom teachers, interventionists and instructional coaches โ are engaged in this training
The investment reflects a clear priority: ensuring every child becomes a confident, capable reader.
Why this matters for students
Reading is the gateway to all learning. When students develop strong literacy skills early, they are better equipped to succeed in every subject โ and more confident in themselves as learners.
LETRS training helps teachers understand exactly how the brain learns to read and how to support students at every stage of that process. This means:
More targeted instruction for students who need extra support
Stronger foundational skills in phonics, vocabulary and comprehension
Earlier identification and support for students with reading challenges, including dyslexia
Consistent, research-based teaching practices across classrooms and schools
For families, it means greater confidence that their child is receiving instruction rooted in proven methods โ not trends or guesswork.
A districtwide commitment to literacy
Ray-Pecโs approach goes beyond a single cohort or program. Over the past three years, multiple groups of teachers have completed LETRS training, with additional cohorts currently in progress and more educators set to begin this fall.
The district has also partnered with regional experts, including longtime literacy consultant Julie Stevenson and the Kansas City Regional Professional Development Center, to bring this learning directly to Ray-Pec campuses. In addition, the district has opened its sessions to educators from neighboring districts, expanding the impact across the region.
This year, secondary teachers have also begun participating in additional literacy training through the Aspire program, continuing the districtโs commitment to supporting readers at every level.
Investing in what works
LETRS is endorsed by the International Dyslexia Association and aligned with Missouriโs statewide literacy efforts. The training equips educators with practical, evidence-based strategies that can be used immediately in the classroom.
โIt has been wonderful to see this vision come to life over the last few years,โ said Dr. Michelle Hofmann, director of elementary and early learning.
โThis isnโt just about reading words โ itโs about understanding how the brain learns to read,โ Hofmann said. โBy investing in this science-based training, we are equipping our teachers with the tools that research proves work.โ
Building meaningful futures through literacy
At Ray-Pec, this work reflects a deeper commitment to students and their futures. Strong readers are better prepared to explore their interests, pursue opportunities and navigate the world with confidence.
By investing in teachers, the district is investing in every child โ ensuring that all students have access to the skills they need to succeed.
Because when students can read, doors open. And when those doors open, Choice Happens Here.