Meeting the Literacy Challenges of Older Students Through Professional Learning

Many older students are expected to read to learn across multiple subjects, yet teachers in grades 4–8 often lack the specific training and resources to help those who still struggle to decode and comprehend challenging texts. 

The 2024 RAND American Teacher Panel underscores how teacher knowledge gaps, limited professional learning options, and an absence of effective intervention strategies can hinder older students’ literacy growth. 

Lexia Aspire® Professional Learning fills these critical needs with modules aligned to the science of reading and Structured Literacy. This research-based approach highlights decoding, fluency, and comprehension, while also providing immediate Bridge to Application resources teachers can use in their classrooms. With a range of personalized, scaffolded, and research-backed techniques, educators gain confidence in helping every learner catch up and thrive.

Through Aspire, teachers can also earn certification and graduate credits via a partnership with the American College of Education, expanding their professional skill set while helping students meet grade-level expectations. The program’s comprehensive modules empower teachers to analyze real-time data, tailor instruction, and pinpoint student needs, particularly for those requiring intervention. 

By guiding educators to better understand word reading development, effective assessment strategies, and proven interventions, Aspire helps transform classrooms, boost literacy outcomes, and ensure older students are prepared to excel in every subject.