Deans for Impact Launches New Texas Statewide Network to Strengthen Teacher Preparation in Early Literacy

AUSTIN, Texas (June 4, 2025) – Deans for Impact (DFI) announces the Texas Early Literacy Network, a new statewide initiative, funded by the Moody Foundation, that brings together four Texas educator-preparation programs (EPPs) to improve how new teachers are prepared to teach reading using proven, research-based methods.

This effort builds on DFI’s strong track record of supporting teacher-preparation programs both across Texas and throughout the country to align with state requirements for evidence-based literacy instruction. To-date, DFI has partnered with five Texas-based preparation programs to ground reading instruction in evidence-based practices, leading to double-digit gains in future teachers’ instructional knowledge and skills. Nationally, DFI has provided instructional support to more than 20 programs in eight states to redesign how aspiring educators learn to teach reading.

“Preparing teachers to use scientifically-informed instructional strategies for reading is crucial for their students’ success,” said Valerie Sakimura, executive director of DFI. “Through the Texas Early Literacy Network, we’re excited to expand our reach in the state so that more new teachers enter classrooms well-equipped to engage young readers in rigorous and affirming learning experiences.”

Participating programs include Sul Ross State University, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Texas Southern University, and Angelo State University. These programs represent different geographical and institutional contexts serving Texas students and collectively prepare approximately 1,000 aspiring teachers annually in Texas.

Over the next two years, the Texas Early Literacy Network will support these institutions in refining literacy coursework, strengthening field-based practice experiences, and building teacher-educator expertise in evidence-based literacy practices aligned with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for English Language Arts.

To learn more about DFI’s instructional support, visit deansforimpact.org/programming/for-teachers-and-teacher-educators. 

About Deans for Impact (DFI)

DFI is a national nonprofit organization with a mission to ensure every child is taught by well-prepared teachers. We support educator-preparation programs to bring the science of learning into teaching practice; partner with policymakers to ensure pathways into teaching are accessible, practice-based, and focused on instruction; and equip leaders with the tools to address today’s most pressing challenges in educator preparation. Guided by principles of cognitive science, we aim to help aspiring and early-career teachers create rigorous and affirming classrooms where all children thrive. To learn more, visit deansforimpact.org.

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Media contact:
Cece Zhou
czhou@deansforimpact.org
248-854-0630