Literacy Leader Network
Connecting Leaders, Inspiring Readers: The Literacy Leader Network in Action
The Literacy Leader Network is a strategic model designed to drive organization-wide literacy growth by fostering collective capacity for continuous improvement. Grounded in deep literacy expertise and a systems-thinking approach to capacity building, coherence, and change, the model unfolds across four deliberate phases.
The Literacy Leader Network (LLN) is dedicated to building the capacity of educators in leadership roles to drive literacy improvement at the school and district levels. Through targeted training, modeling, coaching, and feedback, LLN ensures a system-wide implementation of research-based practices aligned with Michigan’s Literacy Standards and Organizational Literacy Instruction. The network fosters collaboration among educational leaders to achieve consistent, high-quality literacy education across Michigan. The LLN model supports system-wide literacy improvements, emphasizing capacity building and continuous improvement through a four-phase process. It is a partnership between MAISA and MEMSPA, Michigan Elementary and Middle School Principals Association (MEMSPA), and is supported by Section 35a funds.
Through the Literacy Leader Network model, leaders and systems increase their capacity by:
A (Literacy) Road Map to Success
Service Areas
Mi LLN in collaboration with MAISA & MEMSPA through 35a+ local district funds
LLN sites funded 2015-2018 through U.S. Department of Education Innovative Approach to Literacy grant competition ($4,595,530.43 ): 4000 high poverty elementary students in 5 rural regions of the country. Collaborative partners included National Council of Teachers of English and Rural School & Community Trust.
LLN Sites in IL in collaboration with the Catalyst for Educational Change (2023-present) funded by Illinois State Board of Education & Steans Foundation: 4 Elementary schools in the North Lawndale Community and one rural district in SW IL.
LLN Sites (2018-2019) in San Antonio, TX with ESC-20 & NORC at the University of Chicago lead partners: approx. 1500 Prek-5 students.
LLN Sites in Cleveland, OH (2017-2020): Charter schools supported by regional foundation and Ohio School Quality Improvement Grants.
Advancing literacy requires more than just a vision—it demands a system built on research, implementation supports for coaches, and continuous learning. By investing in structured, evidence-based practices, we empower educators with the tools to drive real change, ensuring every student has access to the highest quality instruction and the opportunity to become a lifelong reader.
19,650
5
Students in LLN Partner Schools
24
School Districts
54
Elementary School Leadership Teams
Regional Partnerships (out of 10 regions) in Michigan