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About Vermont Literacy Network

Vermont Literacy Network is an early literacy organization based out of central Vermont. Through our student, professional, and community programming, we aim to create a more empowered and literacy-rich community. We utilize a structured literacy and science of reading approach to ensure effective, evidence-based instruction that meets the diverse needs of our community.

 

Join us in our journey to make a difference, one word at a time.​

Communities We Reach

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At Vermont Literacy Network, we believe that learning has no boundaries and the Green Mountains are our classroom! We offer virtual and in-person programming at our Bristol facility and in various locations throughout Vermont. Imagine your child learning new skills in the cozy corners of your local library, the vibrant halls of your community center, or even the great outdoors! We also partner with local bookstores to create even more welcoming spaces for our literacy programs. 

Our Bristol Facility

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We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Vermont Literacy Network's new location in Bristol! This cozy space will serve as a hub for all things literacy, offering student programs, professional development, and community events. We're excited to bring our mission to life in Bristol, connecting our community one word at a time!

Educational Approach

Our instructional methods and educational approach is deeply rooted in evidence-based practices and the science of reading. By providing structured and holistic instruction, students at Vermont Literacy Network not only develop literacy skills, but also a love of learning. 

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Structured Literacy

Multisensory
Strategies

Personalized Instruction

Equitable Practices

Our curriculum is grounded in the principles of structured literacy, which emphasizes explicit, systematic instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension.

By incorporating visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile elements into our instruction, we provide opportunities for all learners to enhance learning and memory retention.

Through data-driven analysis and family collaboration, we tailor our instructional goals in Individual Lessons to meet the specific academic and  personal needs of each child.

Our curriculum reflects the rich tapestry of our community. By embracing culturally responsive pedagogy, we strive to create a learning environment that is inclusive, affirming, and empowering for all learners.

Get Involved

At Vermont Literacy Network, we believe community involvement is essential to fostering a culture of literacy and lifelong learning. tay connected by signing up for our newsletter and following us on social media. Your support helps us create a more inclusive, literate Vermont where everyone can thrive.

Join Vermont Literacy Network's Mailing List

  • How can I stay informed about upcoming events and programs?
    You can stay updated by subscribing to our newsletter where we regularly share information about upcoming workshops, classes, and community events. You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook for the latest news and announcements, or check our website for detailed program calendars and special events!
  • What is Vermont Literacy Network?
    Vermont Literacy Network is an early literacy organization on a mission to connect our community one word at a time! VLN offers comprehensive student, professional, and community programming that are deeply rooted in structured literacy practices and the science of reading. Services are available both virtually and in-person at our Bristol facility. Whether you’re a student, educator, or community member, the Network provides the tools and support needed to foster a literacy-rich Vermont!
  • Where are programs held?
    Our programs are offered both in-person and virtually. In-person programs are available throughout Vermont, with a primary focus on Bristol and surrounding communities. We also offer virtual programs, allowing participants from all over the world to to participate in our lessons, workshops, and professional development courses!
  • Are VLN’s professional programs aligned with current educational research?
    Absolutely! All of our programs are grounded in the most up-to-date, research-based, and evidence-based practices. We integrate proven methodologies from the science of reading and structured literacy, including multisensory instruction and data-driven intervention strategies. We stay informed on new developments in literacy research to ensure that our content reflects the latest understanding of how students learn to read and write.
  • What professional development programs does Vermont Literacy Network offer?
    Currently, we offer virtual workshops that focus on the science of reading, structured literacy, and practical strategies for educators. We also provide custom workshops for schools and organizations that request tailored training to meet their specific needs. In addition, we are excited to announce that we are working on developing asynchronous courses to give educators more flexibility in accessing our training.
  • What qualifications do the professional workshop facilitators at VLN have?
    Our workshop facilitators are highly trained professionals with extensive classroom and intervention experience. Many of them are certified in Orton-Gillingham and Wilson Reading System approaches.
  • What types of lessons and programs do you offer for children?
    We offer a range of personalized programs for children, including Individual Lessons, workshops, classes, and clubs. These programs focus on early literacy development, reading comprehension, and intervention strategies to help students overcome reading challenges. Each program is designed to engage children through multisensory, personalized experiences!
  • How are the Individual Lessons tailored to my child’s needs?
    Individual Lessons are customized based on the data collected within your child's Initial Student Evaluation (ISE). We assess your child’s strengths and areas for growth to create a targeted intervention plan that focuses on developing key reading skills. Both virtual and in-person lessons are designed to adapt to your child’s progress and learning preferences to ensure continuous growth!
  • How do you measure my child’s progress?
    We closely monitor your child’s progress through regular formative and summative assessments, or "show what you knows", to ensure they are growing in their targeted areas. After each session, literacy teachers gather notes and data which families can request at any time. Additionally, families and their child's literacy teacher attend monthly conferences to discuss progress, address concerns, and adjust the instructional plan if needed.
  • Can I observe my child’s lessons?
    Yes, we encourage parents to be involved and observe their child’s progress. Our Bristol facility has a cozy waiting area where you can comfortably watch the lessons. However, we do ask that you refrain from interacting with your child during the session so that the literacy teacher can focus on working their magic without interruption.
  • What is an Initial Student Evaluation?
    The Initial Student Evaluation (ISE) is the first step in tailoring your child's journey in Individual Lessons. This evaluation helps us identify your child’s specific strengths and challenges in areas such as phonemic awareness, decoding (reading) skills, comprehension, fluency, writing, and spelling!
  • What age groups do your programs serve?
    Currently, our student programs primarily serve children from preschool through 3rd grade. However, we are excited to expand our offerings in the new year to include programs for children from birth to age 3, and students in grades 4-8.
  • Are your programs suitable for children with learning differences?
    Yes! Our student programs are designed to be inclusive and supportive of children with a wide range of needs including those with sensory processing disorders, neurodivergencies (such as ASD and ADHD), and other needs. We are well-versed in accommodations and modifications as outlined in educational plans such as IEPs, and we are committed to upholding these supports during instruction. We are dedicated to creating an equitable and welcoming learning environment where every student can thrive. We are passionate in ensuring that all students receive the personalized instruction they need to succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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