2026 Alaska Science of Reading Symposium

The 2026 Alaska Science of Reading Symposium brings educators, leaders, and partners together to continue Alaska’s shared climb toward strong, equitable literacy outcomes for every student. Grounded in the Science of Reading and aligned with the Alaska Reads Act, the fifth annual symposium focuses on evidence-based instruction, sustained implementation, and measurable impact. Over three days, participants will deepen their understanding of effective literacy practices, strengthen systems that support readers of all ages, and collaborate across roles and regions to ensure every Alaskan child is supported on their journey to becoming a skilled and confident reader.

Our 2026 theme is “Continuing the Climb: Evidence, Effort, Impact.” Our line-up of renowned speakers and presenters from across the country will join together to focus on:

Day 1 — Evidence: Finding Our Footing | Building shared understanding and a common language for the continued climb

• What the research tells us—and why it matters
• Aligning instruction, assessment, and systems
• Establishing solid footing across diverse Alaskan contexts

Day 2 — Effort: Roped Together in Practice | Turning knowledge into action through collective work

• Implementation in real classrooms and communities
• Supporting educators through change and complexity
• Persistence, collaboration, and shared responsibility

Day 3 — Impact: Reaching Higher for Every Reader | Measuring progress and sustaining the ascent

• Evidence of growth at the student, school, and system level
• Closing opportunity gaps—especially for rural and Indigenous learners
• Scaling what works and planning the next ascent

This event is open to classroom educators, instructional support staff, school and district administrators, school board members, legislators, community and tribal leaders, parents, and anyone interested in improving reading achievement for students in Alaska and beyond.

Once again, we are pleased to offer a simulcast virtual offering of the full Symposium program for those unable to attend the in-person event in Anchorage. Visit the Alaska Science of Reading Symposium website for more information.

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Host or Publisher Alaska Department of Education & Early Development