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The Early Literacy Network

A Science of Reading-Aligned Professional Learning Community

The Early Literacy Network (ELN) provides schools with the expertise and support needed to build long-term capacity for delivering effective early literacy instruction grounded in the science of reading for students in grades K–2 and 3 - 5. Designed specifically for small and standalone school networks, ELN facilitates collaboration and shared learning among participating schools. Through this initiative, schools gain access to best practices, resources, and professional development to sustain high-quality literacy instruction and equip students with the essential reading and writing skills for long-term academic success.

Overview

Achieving literacy success requires schools to develop the internal capacity to implement high-quality early literacy programs that reflect the principles of the science of reading. Small networks of schools often need more resources and expertise to integrate these evidence-based practices fully. The Early Literacy Network—powered by Skyrocket Education—addresses this challenge by empowering standalone schools and small networks to build sustainable, high-impact early literacy support systems. This network focuses on:

  • Implementing science of reading-aligned instruction.
  • Building leadership pipelines with deep literacy knowledge.
  • Facilitating shared learning and problem-solving among networks to fill the role of a network-wide literacy department.
  • Create and maintain formative and summative assessment systems to drive change based on data

Email us to learn more and get a FREE copy of our Literacy Framework: [email protected]

Science of Reading Integration

This initiative emphasizes evidence-based practices central to the science of reading:

  • Explicit and systematic instruction in phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
  • Use of data to inform instruction and interventions, ensuring differentiated support for all learners.
  • Development of leaders and teachers with deep knowledge of literacy research and instructional best practices.

By embedding the science of reading throughout all activities and structures, the Early Literacy Network ensures that participating networks create and sustain high-quality early literacy programs that lead to

Outcomes

Evidence of Success in Each Network:

  1. Implementation of evidence-based practices:
    • Science of reading-aligned curriculum.
    • Systematic and explicit phonics instruction.
    • Effective Tier 2 and Tier 3 intervention models. 
  2. Improvement through continuous cycles of data-driven reflection:
    • Science of reading-aligned curriculum.
    • Systematic and explicit phonics instruction.
    • Effective Tier 2 and Tier 3 intervention models.
  3. Creation of robust coaching systems:
    • Empowering school leaders and teachers to deliver high-quality literacy instruction.
  4. Enhanced teaching and leadership practices:
    • Improved teacher literacy practices measured by the Skyrocket instructional rubric.
    • Improved leader capacity as measured by the Skyrocket leadership rubric.
  5. Improved student outcomes:
    • Increased reading proficiency on PSSA.
    • Gains in literacy achievement based on formative assessments.

Cross-Network Success Indicators:

  • Development of a collaborative association that facilitates sustainability.
  • Creation of a blueprint for replicating this model across other networks.

Program Details

Within-Network Activities

  1. Network Literacy Audit:
     Each network will undergo a comprehensive audit to evaluate and align current practices with the science of reading. Areas of focus include:

    • Use of evidence-based curriculum and phonics programs.
    • Tier 2 and 3 instruction and interventions.
    • Support for exceptional learners and English language learners.
    • Data systems for formative assessment.
    • Instructional coaching structures.
    • Professional development for leaders and teachers.

  2. Network Leader and School Leader Coaching:

    • Network Leader Coaching: Monthly coaching to build leaders’ expertise in the science of reading, data-driven decision-making, and the ability to support school leaders in literacy instruction.
    • School Leader Coaching: Bi-monthly coaching to strengthen school leaders’ capacity to implement high-quality early literacy instruction, focusing on pedagogical content knowledge and effective coaching of teachers.

  3. Network Meetings:

    • Bi-monthly professional development sessions are provided to provide individualized early literacy content aligned with the science of reading.
    • Focus shifts from foundational knowledge to building networks’ capacity for literacy coaching and leading data-driven instructional improvements over time.

  4. Network Walkthroughs:

    • Regular walkthroughs are conducted to observe classroom implementation of literacy practices, collect data on instruction, and provide actionable feedback for improvement.

Cross-Network Activities

1. Community of Practice Kickoff
  • Build relational trust across networks to establish a collaborative culture.

 

 

2. Cross-Network Gatherings
  • Bi-monthly gatherings focus on sharing best practices, addressing shared challenges, and aligning efforts across networks.
  • A Problem of Practice format ensures actionable outcomes for each session.
3. Cross-Network Walkthroughs
  • Structured observations in partner schools provide opportunities for peer feedback on literacy implementation.
  • Focus on curricular alignment, instructional fidelity, and data-driven recommendations to enhance instruction.

Email us to learn more and get a Free copy of our Literacy Framework:
[email protected]

 

"Skyrockets PEL-NET coaching and support have been instrumental in helping me launch an early literacy initiative at my school. Their guidance in setting clear goals and actionable steps has provided a strong foundation for improving literacy outcomes. Additionally, being part of the PEL-NET cohort has given me the opportunity to connect with other charter school leaders across Philadelphia. Collaborating on best practices and sharing strategies for leading early literacy efforts has been incredibly valuable in strengthening my leadership and impact on teachers."

Melanie
People For People Charter School

 

 

"The Skyrocket PELNET coach has provided incredible coaching. The proactive approach has made a huge difference in my leadership growth. Whether it's helping me develop new skills, anticipate challenges, or provide clarity, I always feel more confident and ready for the next step after our sessions. I really appreciate the program's ability to see the bigger picture and guide me toward continuous improvement."

Leslie
Global Leadership Academy