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English Language Arts (ELA)

Building strong, connected systems of literacy support across Washington through leadership, collaboration, and high-quality professional learning.
 

The English Language Arts (ELA) and Regional Literacy Coordinators initiative is a statewide collaboration designed to strengthen literacy instruction through a coordinated network across Washington’s nine Educational Service Districts (ESDs). This initiative connects specialists in ELA, educational technology, math, and science to provide a comprehensive, integrated system of support, rather than standalone programs.

Aligned with Washington state learning standards and instructional best practices, the initiative:

  • Builds leadership capacity in literacy instruction
  • Fosters collaboration across subject areas to embed literacy skills into all aspects of learning
  • Strengthens district systems that support teaching and learning

By offering flexible, responsive services to students, families, educators, administrators, and community partners, the initiative builds a strong, statewide framework for improving literacy outcomes. Regional Literacy Coordinators play a key role in fostering classrooms that promote critical thinking and equip students for lifelong success. They work directly with schools to:

  • Implement structured literacy practices
  • Improve writing instruction
  • Embed literacy across all subject areas

ELA Services for Districts

The ELA initiative provides practical, hands-on support to help districts implement high-quality literacy instruction across Washington. Services are flexible, responsive, and tailored to meet the evolving needs of educators.

Professional development

In-person, virtual, and blended learning opportunities that support structured literacy implementation and align with the latest research and state standards.

Dyslexia Screening Support

Training and resources to help districts meet early screening requirements and ensure schools are equipped to support all learners.

Leadership support

Coaching, strategic planning, and connection through the AESD Fellows Network to strengthen instructional leadership at the school and district levels.

Systems integration

Support to align literacy with broader teaching and learning systems by partnering with educators and content experts across subject areas.

Professional Learning Resources

Washington State Fellows' Network

Washington’s statewide Fellows program, coordinated by OSPI and AESD, is a three-year initiative that brings together instructional leaders to strengthen content-area leadership, build regional connections, and support the implementation of state learning standards.

Serving as vital links between state initiatives and local classrooms, Fellows help ensure the timely and consistent flow of information and resources.

Applications are currently being accepted!

Regional English Language Arts Coordinator Contacts

For more information, please contact your regional coordinator listed below or click on the Request Information button to submit a form.

ESD 101

Michelle Norwood

ESD 105

Theresa Hernandez

ESD 112

Effie Triol

ESD 113

Cheryl Vance

ESD 114

Patricia Beuke

ESD 121

Ai Nakayama-Tran

ESD 123

Lindsey Fangman

ESD 171

Shanna Brooks

ESD 189

Laqueta Williams