Date Approved
8-13-2026
Graduate Degree Type
Project
Degree Name
Education-Literacy Studies: Reading (M.Ed.)
Degree Program
College of Education
First Advisor
Lindsay Stoetzel
Academic Year
2025/2026
Abstract
The state of Michigan has long invested in early literacy by supporting K-2 teachers in professional learning and early literacy coaching. This project focuses on the need to develop upper elementary teachers in grades three through five on their knowledge of the science of reading and foundational skills. Providing professional learning on the science of reading will increase knowledge and self-efficacy, which upper elementary teachers need in order to implement a Tier 1 curriculum as mandated by PA 146 of 2024. This project outlines a series of three professional development sessions that help build content knowledge around the science of reading, reading theories, and explicit instruction. The professional development is then continued through instructional coaching. This project contains a coaching cycle model as well as forms that support coaching conversations. Teacher surveys are also included to identify trends and determine success of the project.
ScholarWorks Citation
Compher, Kelly, "Increasing Internal Teacher Capacity through Instructional Support and Professional Growth" (2026). Masters Projects. 769.
https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/gradprojects/769
Included in
Curriculum and Instruction Commons, Educational Leadership Commons, Elementary Education Commons
