A new independent analysis of literacy outcomes in Kentucky schools shows that increased participation in Lexia LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) professional learning — part of Lexia’s evidence-aligned LETRS Suite — is associated with measurable improvements in student reading achievement, particularly growth in students reaching “Proficient” reading levels.
The study, conducted by the Kentucky Reading Research Center in partnership with the University of Louisville and the Kentucky Department of Education, analyzed data from 574 elementary schools across 135 districts over multiple academic years, alongside participation from more than 7,000 educators and administrators engaged in LETRS professional learning. Researchers found a consistent, statistically significant relationship between higher percentages of LETRS-trained teachers in a school setting and students’ improved reading performance on the Kentucky Summative Assessment (KSA).
Among the key findings:
- Schools with higher concentrations of LETRS-trained teachers saw significantly greater gains in students achieving “Proficient” reading levels.
- Schools above the average level of LETRS-trained teachers experienced up to 4.26% growth in “Proficient” students, compared to 2.90% in schools below average, comparing state test outcomes from 2023 to 2025.
- Difference-in-differences analysis confirmed a statistically significant positive effect on the percentage of “Proficient” students over time.
- Schools with higher concentrations of LETRS-trained teachers also saw larger reductions in the percentage of students performing at the lowest “Novice” level.
“Building educator expertise is one of the most effective ways to strengthen literacy outcomes at scale, and this research reinforces that approach,” said Alyson Deutsch, Senior Vice President of Product at Lexia. “The LETRS Suite delivers a deep understanding of the science of reading alongside practical, research-aligned application — helping educators strengthen their effectiveness and transform classroom practice. With more than 698,000 educator enrollments supporting over 9.4 million students nationwide, we’re seeing this translate into real, measurable gains in student achievement.”
LETRS has been implemented statewide in Kentucky through the Kentucky Reading Academies, providing more than 7,000 educators and administrators with access to professional learning grounded in the science of reading and focused on building deep knowledge, practical application, and stronger classroom instruction.
The study also points to an opportunity for even wider impact, noting that many schools and districts still have no LETRS-trained educators and that increasing access to training is a viable strategy to further improve literacy outcomes and help more students reach proficiency.
“Expanding access to high-quality professional learning is critical to ensuring every student has the opportunity to become a successful reader,” said Roya Salehi, Senior Vice President of Customer Success at Lexia. “We’re committed to partnering with states and districts to scale this work and support educators with the knowledge and tools they need to drive lasting literacy gains.”
Read the full report here.
Lexia
Lexia, a Cambium Learning Group brand, is transforming literacy education, driving change in 1 of every 3 school districts across the United States. For more than 40 years, Lexia has been a thought leader in literacy education, delivering award-winning, research-based solutions grounded in the science of reading. With a full spectrum of offerings, including professional learning, curriculum, and embedded assessment tools, Lexia provides educators with Structured Literacy solutions that are proven effective and designed to drive meaningful literacy outcomes. By empowering educators with unparalleled ease of use and the knowledge and tools they need, Lexia helps more students unlock their potential to read, write, and speak with confidence. For more information, visit lexialearning.com.
About Cambium Learning Group
Cambium Learning Group is the education essentials company, providing award-winning education technology and services for K-12 educators and students. With an intentional collection of respected global brands, Cambium serves as a leader, helping millions of educators and students feel more seen, valued, and supported every day. In everything it does, the company focuses on the elements that are most essential to the success of education, delivering simpler, more certain solutions that make a meaningful difference right now.
To learn more, visit www.cambiumlearning.com or follow Cambium on Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. The Cambium family of brands includes: Cambium Assessment, Lexia, Learning A-Z, ExploreLearning, and Time4Learning.
