Reading Apprenticeship® Essentials I: Build Student-Centered Learning Communities

For middle school and high school educators


This foundational course introduces the Reading Apprenticeship framework’s four dimensions of learning and how they help you create positive learning communities centered on student strengths and disciplinary texts—whether teaching in-person or online.

What You’ll Learn

  • Model expert reading strategies from your discipline 
  • Help students deepen their reading comprehension through metacognition 
  • Integrate subject-area content learning with literacy skills 
  • Build student persistence, stamina, and problem-solving abilities 
  • Shift learning responsibility to students effectively 

Course Format

In-Person: Three full days (6 hours each) of immersive learning with colleagues. Build community, practice classroom strategies, and engage in collaborative inquiry. Flexible scheduling is available for school or district groups. Individual registration offered 1–2 times yearly. 

Online: Nine 2-hour Zoom sessions (18 hours total) on WestEd’s learning platform. Experience powerful digital community-building and receive extensive instructional support. Flexible scheduling is available for school or district groups. Individual registration offered 1–2 times yearly. 

Who Should Attend 

  • Teachers of all subjects 
  • Administrators and instructional coaches 
  • Support staff 
  • Teams of two or more highly recommended  

Cost & Resources 

Fee: 

  • In-person: $1,750 
  • Online: $1,500 

Need funding approval? Use our template letter (.docx) for district personnel. 

Would you like to receive this course at your site or as a private online course? Please contact us for pricing and scheduling.  

Federal funding: Reading Apprenticeship qualifies as “strong” evidence-based professional learning under ESSA. Use Title I, Title II, or Title III funds. 

Refunds: Full refund up to 2 weeks before start, and 50 percent refund within 2 weeks of start. WestEd may cancel or reschedule—we’ll notify you promptly. 

Included: 

  • Reading for Understanding, 3rd Edition 
  • Professional readings  
  • Classroom implementation materials 

Questions? Contact Us