LETRS Cohort 1

RPS 205 Recognizes Educators for Commitment to Literacy Instruction

Rockford Public Schools

October 22, 2026

Rockford Public School District 205 is recognizing educators who completed LETRS training for their commitment to strengthening literacy instruction and helping students build strong reading skills.

LETRS, which stands for Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling, is a comprehensive professional learning program that deepens educators’ understanding of the science of reading, how students learn to read, and effective literacy instruction.

The program requires a significant two-year commitment that includes online coursework, professional reading, learning sessions, and applying new knowledge directly to classroom practice.

To date, five LETRS cohorts have completed the program, with 183 RPS staff members participating. Educators represent a wide range of roles across the district, including early childhood, elementary, middle and high school teachers, instructional coaches, English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers, interventionists, and school administrators.

Cohort 6 is currently completing its second year, while Cohort 7 began its first year during the 2026–2027 school year. RPS will recognize LETRS participants over the next five months, beginning with Cohort 1.

LETRS Cohort 1

Congratulations to LETRS Cohort 1!

The following educators were recognized at the October 20 school board meeting for completing LETRS training:

  • Brookview: Allison Decman

  • Cherry Valley: Amanda Kunz

  • Conklin: Abigail Hammond and Brenda Lisitza

  • Constance Lane: Crystal Rondone

  • Ellis: Jessica Berg and Maria Hardy

  • Froberg: Susan Kulick

  • Lewis Lemon: Shelby Holmertz and Tiffany Russey

  • McIntosh: Candra Phillips and Katie Taylor

  • Riverdahl: Amy Hannebaum

  • Rolling Green: Nichole Gesner

  • Spring Creek: Destiny Blackburn

  • Washington: Susan Bukove

  • Welsh: Joanna Gulley, Angel Hampl, Whitney Reed, Molly Schaer, Caitlin Seibert, Wyatt Shanks, and Katherine Thew

  • West View: Ashley Anderson, Erin Andrist, Vivian Beard, Kristine Cloyd, and Erica Medearis

  • Whitehead: Renee Guse

  • RPS District Office: Anne Peiffer

LETRS Cohort 1

RPS 205 is grateful to these educators for investing their time, energy, and expertise in strengthening their literacy instruction. Their dedication supports the district’s goal of ensuring every student develops the strong foundational reading skills needed for success.