In order to increase literacy and instill a love of lifelong learning, WORD is dedicated to connecting educators to literacy ideas, innovations, and best practices,  through state and local conferences, workshops and publications.
 

			Who We Are

WORD is a dynamic and diverse organization that includes classroom teachers, reading specialists, consultants, administrators, supervisors, college teachers, researchers, psychologists, librarians, media specialists, students, and parents. WORD has more than 2,400 members in Washington and is affiliated with the International Reading Association.

We support the goals of the International Reading Association in professional development, advocacy, partnerships, research, and leadership in global issues.

			Our Goals

GOALS for 2008-2009
developed August 2, 2008

1. Provide opportunities for professional development by promoting and disseminating literacy research and best practices.

2. Support local councils in reaching their goals, including honor council and other awards.

3. Increase membership and encourage the participation in WORD activities of associate members and teachers who have 0-5 years teaching experience.

4. Reach out to build diversity at all levels of WORD (ethnicity, cultural, gender, P-20, & varying educator roles).

5. Continue to build partnerships with OSPI , ESD’s and other appropriate organizations (ex: Rotary, PTA, foundations, WSTA, WSCTE, WSASCD, etc).

6. Advocating legislation that supports literacy.

7. Provide ways to meet the needs of 21st century teachers.