Building Strong Readers Through Research-Backed Literacy Instruction
Unlike spoken language, reading is not a skill the human brain is naturally wired to acquire. Children learn to speak through exposure and interaction, but reading requires explicit, systematic instruction. Decades of cognitive science and educational research confirm that literacy development depends heavily on how reading is taught. When students do not receive effective instruction early on, the consequences can be long-lasting—affecting academic achievement across subject areas and limiting future educational and professional opportunities.
Because literacy is foundational to all learning, ensuring that students become strong readers is not optional—it is essential. Strong readers can decode accurately, read fluently, comprehend complex texts, and write with clarity. These skills do not develop by chance. They develop when educators are equipped with evidence-based instructional methods that align with how the brain actually learns to read.
The Rose Institute’s Commitment to Literacy Education
At The Rose Institute for Learning and Literacy at Manhattanville University, our mission is rooted in this research. We are dedicated to expanding access to high-quality literacy instruction by preparing educators with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to support all learners. Our work is driven by the belief that every student deserves instruction grounded in proven science—not trends or guesswork.
By training educators in structured literacy approaches, The Rose Institute aims to ensure that more students, across diverse classrooms and communities, are taught by teachers who understand the reading process and can effectively address a wide range of learning needs.
Why Orton-Gillingham Is a Gold Standard
One of the most well-established and research-supported approaches to literacy instruction is the Orton-Gillingham method. This approach is structured, explicit, sequential, and multisensory, meaning it teaches the structure of language, making it clear and cumulative. Orton-Gillingham instruction has been especially effective for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences, but its benefits extend to all learners.
Rather than assuming students will intuit reading skills, Orton-Gillingham explicitly teaches phonology, phonics, morphology, syntax, and semantics. Educators trained in this approach are better prepared to diagnose reading difficulties, tailor instruction, and provide targeted interventions that lead to measurable growth in literacy skills.
For these reasons, The Rose Institute proudly offers Orton-Gillingham training and practicums, providing educators with both theoretical grounding and hands-on experience.
Upcoming Orton-Gillingham Training Opportunities
We are pleased to offer two upcoming Orton-Gillingham training programs in partnership with local BOCES organizations, making high-quality professional development accessible to educators in our region.
Classroom Educator Training
Beginning January 8
Offered in partnership with Ulster BOCES, this training is designed for classroom teachers seeking to strengthen their literacy instruction within general education settings.
Register here
Associate Level Training
Beginning January 21
Offered in partnership with Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES, this training provides a deeper level of preparation for educators who want advanced expertise in structured literacy and intervention.
Register here
Both programs emphasize research-based instruction, practical application, and ongoing support, ensuring that participants leave prepared to make an immediate impact in their classrooms.
Not Sure Which Training Is Right for You? We’re Here to Help.
We understand that educators come to literacy training with different backgrounds, roles, and goals. Determining which level of training is the best fit can feel challenging. The Rose Institute is here to support you in making that decision.
To help prospective participants, we invite you to join us for an information session on January 6. This session will provide an overview of each program, explain expectations and outcomes, and offer space for questions so you can determine which training best aligns with your professional goals.
Information Session – January 6
Sign up here
Investing in Strong Readers for the Future
When educators are equipped with effective, research-backed literacy instruction, the impact extends far beyond individual classrooms. Strong readers are better able to access content across disciplines, think critically, and engage meaningfully with the world around them. By investing in educator training, we invest in long-term educational equity and student success.
The Rose Institute for Learning and Literacy invites educators, schools, and districts to join us in advancing literacy instruction grounded in science and practice. Together, we can ensure that more students become strong, capable readers—and that literacy instruction reflects the best of what research and education have to offer.
About the Rose Institute for Learning and Literacy
The Rose Institute for Learning and Literacy was founded at Manhattanville in 2013 when Sandra Priest Rose established an endowment to ensure that as many students as possible have teachers who are trained in the most effective research-backed literacy instructional methods. The Rose Institute offers graduate coursework and advanced certificates through Manhattanville and professional development opportunities both in-district and through several partner BOCES.
Manhattanville University School of Education
The School of Education undergraduate and graduate degree programs prepare PreK-12 teachers and administrators, higher education and community leaders, and educational industry entrepreneurs. Having served the tri-state area for over five decades, the Manhattanville School of Education guides new generations of educators to become leaders in their field through unrivaled community-based field experiences in over 25 area schools and educational agencies.
Our graduate and doctoral programs offer a blended learning experience with online, in-person, and hybrid courses, which provide our students with the flexibility and resources they need to fulfill their educational goals.
