When we first started sending out newsletters, I’ll admit—I was convinced they would be easy to write. After all, how hard can it be to share updates about what’s going on at Slingerland, right? Well, I quickly learned that keeping our supporters informed and engaged takes more than just words. It’s about sharing the heart of what we’re doing, celebrating the milestones along the way, and acknowledging the incredible community that has been a part of our journey.
And so, as we reflect on the past year, I’m grateful for your continued support and excited to share some of the growth we’ve experienced.
A Year of Growth: Reflecting on Slingerland’s Achievements
This past year has been a time of tremendous growth and transformation for Slingerland Literacy Institute, and we couldn’t have reached these milestones without your support.
Here are a few highlights that we’re particularly proud of:
Increased Impact:
Every teacher we train means more students receive the support they need.
Slingerland’s summer class enrollment increased by 15% from 2023 to 2024.
Sustaining Slingerland Skills class enrollment has increased almost 25% from the start of 2023 to present.
We currently have 25 participants enrolled in Extended Practicum classes (1-on-1 coaching through a school year), our highest number since the class began.
In early 2025, we will be holding a brand new, two-day, online Structured Reading workshop where participants will leave with a library of reading passages ready to teach.
More Updated Materials:
Two of our core products have been fully updated thanks to feedback from supporters like you. Our Faculty Senate and Front Office worked together to integrate those requests for both items:
Implementation Guide Level A – This book contains sample Slingerland lesson plans in a logical progression from simple to more complex for beginning-level students.
Yellow Card Pack – These cards are intended for use in Slingerland lessons to help students learn how some individual sounds in English have multiple spellings.
Growing the Front Office:
Kam Morgan has come on full time as our Front Office Operations Manager. They bring with them expertise in clear communication, customer service, and project management. Welcome, Kam!
This year’s growth has been the result of our team’s hard work and the unwavering commitment of our supporters. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey!
Seth Watkins
Executive Director
Slingerland Literacy Institute
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