Standards Newsletter: Oct. 7, 2026

Oct. 7, 2026

Professional Learning Module: Using an Anchoring Phenomenon to Drive Three-Dimensional Teaching and Learning

The “Using an Anchoring Phenomenon to Drive Three-Dimensional Teaching and Learning” module supports phenomenon-driven instruction. Participants explore how anchoring phenomena help students engage with all three dimensions of the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science and how educators can use anchoring phenomena to support student sensemaking. A Facilitator’s Guide, PowerPoint presentation, Participant Packet, Phenomena Poster and Module-at-a-Glance are all available on the Science Professional Learning Modules webpage. Start learning about phenomenon at KYStandards.org.

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. The 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.

Additionally, 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 regarding this process, email the Standards team.

Lights, Camera, Future: The ILP Video Showcase!

Students are invited to discover the power of the Individual Learning Plan (ILP) by creating a 30- to 120-second video showing how the ILP helps them explore careers, set goals and map out their futures.

Key Information:

Deadline: Submissions are open between Aug. 17 and Oct. 23.

Who: Open to all middle and high school students, teachers and counselors. Teamwork is encouraged.

Rules: 100% original work (no AI-generated videos). Media releases are required for all students appearing in videos.

The Reward: Select videos will be featured on KDE’s website and social media channels.

To participate, videos can be submitted by submitting on this Google form.

For any questions, please email Myles Young.

Professional Learning for Kentucky Educators

Whether you are looking for a self-paced course, resources connected to statewide initiatives or support for your role, the Hub is designed to help you find learning that fits your needs. Learn more about the KY Learning Hub on KYStandards.org.

Deepening HQIR Understanding Through Research

Implementing a high-quality instructional resource (HQIR) is an important step toward providing students with effective, evidence-based literacy instruction. Knowing what to do in a lesson is only part of the work. Understanding why the instructional practices are included can help teachers implement their HQIR with greater purpose and precision.

The Kentucky Reading Research Center (KYRRC), in partnership with the KDE, offers educators a trusted source for building that knowledge.

The KYRRC Research Clearinghouse brings together research findings and translates them into accessible resources that help educators connect research to classroom practice. The center’s resources include systematic reviews of research and concise Evidence Snapshots developed specifically for educators.

These resources can complement KDE’s early literacy resources and the HQIRs teachers are already using. This deeper knowledge can help teachers ask:

• Why is this practice included in the lesson?
• What does the research tell us about this practice?
• What should I look and listen for as students engage in the lesson?
• How does this practice contribute to students becoming proficient readers?

Educators can explore the Kentucky Reading Research Center’s resources for teachers and instructional educators to find tools that deepen understanding of classroom instruction.

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.

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.