New Frontiers in Reading and Writing Institute

Hosted in partnership with Heinemann

Date: Monday, July 14, 2025 - Thursday, July 17, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM ET 

Location: Heinemann’s Headquarters in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

For: Grades K-8 teachers, coaches, and school leaders

Cost: $1,000

About the Institute

Get ready for the highlight of your summer! Join us for an exclusive, in-person institute designed for educators who are deeply rooted in literacy and ready to explore the latest innovations in teaching. This immersive experience combines cutting-edge learning with vibrant socializing and networking, all set in the beautiful, coastal town of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, home to our publishing partner, Heinemann.

Each day begins with an energizing keynote before diving into hands-on, small-group sessions that explore advanced literacy topics. Afternoons feature a second small-group session followed by choice workshops on a variety of topics.

A Hub for Learning, Collaboration, and Innovation

This institute is perfect for educators who want to stay at the forefront of research and practice. Over four days, you’ll engage with thought leaders, experienced educators, and members of Heinemann and The Reading & Writing Project staff, exploring the boundaries of literacy education.

Building a Community and Summer Fun

This institute isn’t just about learning – it’s also about connecting with colleagues from across the globe who share your passion for literacy education. We’ll have every breakfast and lunch together providing plenty of opportunities for informal conversations, networking, and idea-sharing. After hours, you can enjoy the best of Portsmouth with optional hikes, tours, bar hops, and boat rides, all organized to foster community and relaxation.

Workshop Topics Include:

• New Ways to Tap the Power of Mentor Texts: Supporting Agency, Invention, Collaboration and Sky-high Expectations with New–and More Wide-Ranging–Mentor Texts

• The Enduring Questions About Decodable Texts: What is the Relationship Between Leveled and Decodable Texts? What Are the Best Ways to Assess Reading? How Can You Evaluate the Quality of Decodable Texts? And More…

• Beyond the Book Club Basics: Advanced Structures and Strategies to Amplify Talk and Deepen Comprehension

• Vocabulary and Morphology in Action: Strategies for Seamlessly Embedding Word Learning in Reading Workshop

• Best Practices for Nonfiction Small Groups and Read-Alouds Across Grades 3-5 Reading Units of Study

• Coming to Understand the New 3-5 Fiction Units of Study Deeply by Participating in Selected Units

• Developing a Deep Understanding of Opinion Writing and Its Development Across Grades, through a Close study of Boxes and Bullets and Literary Essay

• Drawing on Research-Backed Practices to Strengthen Students’ Research Skills, Critical Thinking Practices, and Debate Skills  

Accommodations and Logistics

We’ve arranged discounted rates at convenient hotels so you can focus on making the most of your time with us. Breakfast and lunch will be provided each day. Click here to book a hotel room. 

Institute sessions will take place at the AC Marriott Hotel (299 Vaughan St, Portsmouth, NH 03801) and Heinemann Headquarters (145 Maplewood Ave, Portsmouth, NH 03801). 

Getting to Portsmouth, NH

If you are flying to the institute, we suggest flying into Portsmouth International Airport or Boston Logan International Airport. If you fly into Boston, you can take a convenient bus to Portsmouth, rent a car, or Uber. The town of Portsmouth is walkable and if you are staying in the hotel block you will not need a car during the week. 

Optional Social Activities

Families and friends are invited to attend!

Sunday, July 13, 5:30 PM: Happy Hour for participants traveling alone. Get to know one another and walk over to the Welcome Party together. 

Sunday, July 13, 6:30 PM: Welcome Party at Heinemann Headquarters. Join us for food trucks, live music, and fun.

Monday, July 14, 4:00 PM: Meet up at Portsmouth Gaslight Co. OR Kayaking.

Tuesday, July 15: Choose your own adventure from our suggested list of favorite activities.  

Wednesday, July 16, 5:45 PM: Isle of Shoals Harbor Cruise. Join us for a gorgeous evening cruise! Refreshments and snacks will be provided.