Wisconsin State Reading Association (WSRA)
Established: 1956
wsra.org
What they do
WSRA’s mission is to provide leadership, advocacy, and professional learning for implementing effective literacy practices, understanding the complex nature of literacy, honoring the unique needs of our diverse students, and engaging them to apply their literacies in meaningful ways in a changing world.
Why they do it
WSRA recognizes the complex nature of literacy and supports teachers as professional decision makers who use their expertise to meet the unique needs of the diverse populations they serve. WSRA believes that research grounds us and that professional learning and advocacy are key. As leaders, we are proud to provide the state with research and literacy practices that will significantly impact Wisconsin students’ literacy lives.
Who can join
Educators who support our mission and beliefs are invited to join WSRA in building a literacy network that foregrounds productive practices and literacy learning for educators that enable Wisconsin students to reach their full potential.
Ways to get involved
Members can participate in our statewide local councils, leadership committees, and advocacy efforts, including building relationships with legislators.
Highlights from recent events
2024 WSRA Conference: Our most recent conference was held in downtown Milwaukee. Sessions focused on a wide variety of topics and issues, such as equity and diversity, literacy practices, and research, to enhance and deepen the understanding and practices of educators. A panel presentation, “Teaching: A Profession in Crisis,” included literacy experts Peter Afflerbach, Laura Handsfield, George Hruby, Patrick Harris, Tiera McMurtry, and Kathryn Champeau.
WSRA Leadership Retreats: WSRA provides council leaders and committee members opportunities to learn from experts across the state and nation regarding topics and issues that are essential for literacy leaders. Recent speakers have included Christina Brey of the Wisconsin Education Association Council, researcher Elena Aydarova, Lori Menning of the Wisconsin Association for Bilingual Education, and researchers Andrew Johnson and Peter Johnston.
Local Council Virtual Professional Development Series: During the 2023–2024 council year, WSRA local councils teamed up from across the state to host a virtual professional development series. Each month, council members had an opportunity to interact with literacy experts from across the country with topics including comprehension strategies, student engagement, literacy coaching, and reading research. The local councils are continuing the professional development series for the 2024–2025 year.