Let's READ, Georgia!

Maria Walther’s session on high-impact interactive read-alouds (IRAs) has sparked a statewide wave of intentionality. Coaches and teachers are digging deeper into planning read-alouds that aren’t just routine, but rich, responsive, and rigorous.

At CSRA RESA, PLCs are using Maria’s framework to design read-alouds that elevate student voice and connect literacy to real-world thinking.

In Chattahoochee-Flint RESA, coaches are modeling these practices live in professional learning, guiding teachers to use thoughtful questioning, build vocabulary, and prompt student reflection in real time.

Metro RESA emphasized that IRAs should go beyond decoding; they’re opportunities for students to hear expressive language, develop fluency, and make meaningful text-to-self and text-to-world connections. Across districts, the shift is clear: educators are embracing the power of read-alouds not only to teach, but to transform.

First District RESA’s Literacy Coaches brought smiles and stories to life as they delivered literacy “goodie bags” to school-based coaches and joined students for read-aloud fun. The classrooms were filled with laughter, learning, and the joy of shared reading, proving once again that literacy is a gift worth sharing!

Oconee RESA teachers used engagement strategies to make read-alouds unforgettable moments for students. Meanwhile, Northeast GA RESA held micro-Zooms where coaches led critical conversations about student learning and engagement.

The impact was immediate and heartfelt. Coaches reported teachers rethinking their read-alouds with more purpose. Students requested rereads, engaged in deep discussions, and even asked to lead read-alouds themselves.

At Northwest GA RESA, coaches used video vignettes and newsletters to reinforce implementation. In North GA RESA, teachers wanted to share video models with their entire staff. Griffin RESA parents reached out to thank teams for the take-home resources.

One standout example came from CSRA RESA: teachers not only enjoyed planning their read-alouds but noticed immediate gains in oral language and engagement. With support systems in place like coaching cycles, collaborative planning, and data tools, Georgia educators are building a culture where feedback fuels forward motion.

There’s something powerful happening in Johnson County Elementary thanks to a dynamic partnership with Oconee RESA and the Let's READ, Georgia initiative. This collaboration is more than professional learning; it’s a movement toward meaningful, lasting change.

With intentional support and targeted follow-up from the LRG team, educators are experiencing the impact firsthand. Instructional coach Kelli Rowland is bringing the learning to life by modeling high-impact engagement strategies in real-time. In one kindergarten classroom, the joy of reading is becoming contagious!

The Let's READ, Georgia team from Middle Georgia RESA showed up in disguise, but with a clear mission: to spark joy and excitement around reading!

During “Masked Reader Day,” students were captivated as mystery readers shared stories while keeping their identities hidden behind creative masks. Laughter, curiosity, and the love of books filled the room. It was more than a themed event, it was an unforgettable way to build a culture of reading and remind students that books are full of surprises... just like the people who read them!

Metro RESA’s Let’s READ, Georgia team isn’t just talking about literacy; they’re walking alongside educators to bring research-based practices to life in real classrooms.

During their most recent Science of Reading sessions, teachers didn’t just learn new strategies, they left empowered and equipped to use them. From evidence-based tools to ready-to-roll activities, the Metro team is making sure theory doesn’t stay in a binder; it becomes action, impact, and improved reading outcomes for every student.

Every number tells a story, and behind each coaching session, every school visited, and every educator supported is a shared commitment to helping Georgia’s students grow as readers.

From the coast to the mountains and back again, this story is being shaped by the power of partnership. Together, we are leveraging momentum, leaning in with intention, learning alongside one another, and lifting the voices that matter most, educators, families, and students.

Through Let’s READ, Georgia, more than 32,900 educators have been supported across 678 schools in 202 districts, guided by 52 coaches working across 16 RESAs. These numbers reflect more than impact, they reflect movement.

We invite you to explore the story behind the numbers, to reflect, engage, and join us in moving this work forward. The new Let’s READ, Georgia Data Studio opens the door to who we’re reaching, how we’re growing, and the roles that are fueling Georgia’s literacy journey.

🔗Explore the Let’s READ, Georgia Data Studio

The RESA Network isn’t just supporting literacy, we’re helping lead it forward. Let’s keep turning pages and write a story where every child is seen, supported, and celebrated.