Standards Newsletter: Sept 30, 2026

Sept. 30, 2026

Kentucky Atlas of Phenomena Updates

The Kentucky Atlas of Phenomena (KAP) has been updated with new phenomenon bundles, expanding this valuable resource for science educators across the Commonwealth. Developed by Kentucky educators and community partners for Kentucky educators, KAP helps bring science to life through locally relevant phenomena that connect directly to the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science. The site offers varying levels of phenomena connected to disciplinary core ideas, making it easy for teachers to explore, understand and apply science standards using real-world examples from Kentucky.

Learn more about the Kentucky Atlas of Phenomena updates at KYStandards.org.

Redesigned Reading and Writing Support

Grounded in research on the reciprocal relationship between reading and writing, the “Leveraging the Reading and Writing Connection” webpage supports teachers in developing the literacy knowledge and understanding needed for effective K-12 teaching and learning. This resource replaces the previous Composition Resources webpage and aligns with the revised Kentucky Academic Standards (KAS) for Reading and Writing, which emphasize the integration of standards and text-based writing.

The webpage includes the following resources:

• Text-dependent Questions and Tasks;
• Composition in the Classroom;
• KAS Conferencing Guides and Rubrics; and
• Quick Guides for broad instructional guidance.

These resources will support writing as a practice across the disciplines.

Kentucky World Language Standards Review: Deadline Extended for Feedback and Applications

The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) is beginning the review process for the Kentucky Academic Standards for World Language in accordance with KRS 158.6453. KDE is seeking both public feedback on the current standards and applications from K-12 classroom teachers interested in serving on the World Language Standards and Assessment Review Committee and Advisory Panels.

To provide feedback on the standards, please use the public comment form.

Current K-12 teachers interested in participating in the review committees from fall 2026 through spring 2027 should complete the online application.

The deadline for both public feedback and committee applications has been extended to Oct. 19.

For questions about this process, email the Standards team.

Registration Now Open: Free AIM Pathways Science of Reading Professional Learning for Kentucky Educators

KDE, in partnership with AIM Institute, is offering free, state-funded literacy professional learning for eligible Kentucky educators through the Kentucky Reading Academies.

Two KDE-approved learning pathways are available. Both satisfy the science of reading professional learning requirements of House Bill 253 (2026).

Pathways to Proficient Reading: Approximately 55 hours

Designed for K-5 teachers and educators, Pathways to Proficient Reading deepens participants’ knowledge of reading development, assessment and evidence-based instruction to improve outcomes for all learners.

Pathways to Literacy Leadership: Approximately 30 hours

Designed for school and district leaders, Pathways to Literacy Leadership builds the literacy knowledge and leadership practices needed to support educators, strengthen instruction and guide implementation.

The fall 2026 cohort can be completed within one year and includes asynchronous coursework and virtual learning sessions. Additional cohorts will be offered in winter and summer 2027.

Multiple cohorts are available for each course. Registration for the first cohort opened Sept. 29. Registration deadlines vary by cohort start date. The earliest deadline is 5 p.m. ET Friday, Oct. 16.

View the AIM Pathways enrollment flyer for program details and registration information.

Additional no-cost opportunities include Pathways to Proficient Reading: Secondary and Demystifying Dyslexia. Although these courses provide valuable professional learning, they do not satisfy the House Bill 253 professional learning requirement.

Still Time to Share Your Input: Kentucky Teacher Workload Survey Remains Open

The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) is conducting a statewide survey to better understand teacher workload and the conditions that shape teachers’ professional time.

The survey remains open through Oct. 31 and takes approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. Your responses will help KDE better understand teacher workload and working conditions and identify supports that may contribute to more sustainable teaching conditions.

Participation is voluntary, and responses will be reported in aggregate. Individual teachers will not be identified.

Complete the Kentucky Teacher Workload Survey.

Survey closes: 11:59 p.m. ET Oct. 31, 2026

Missed something in previous newsletters?

Visit the newsletter archive to stay up to date on valuable updates and resources on KYStandards.org.

Please email the standards team with any questions.