Implementing a new literacy solution is an opportunity to make significant impact, but achieving optimal results requires strategic planning, thoughtful curriculum selection, and ongoing support.
Grounded in the principles of implementation science and informed by decades of experience in school systems, this guide from EPS Learning outlines a path for launching and sustaining a literacy solution effectively across schools and classrooms. Following the steps outlined here can help ensure that the district’s investment leads to the best possible outcomes for both students and educators.
Phase 1: Preparation and Planning
Implementation science has clarified that the success of a new initiative depends largely on strong planning and preparation.
To set up for success, leaders can:
- Establish an Implementation Team to guide rollout, support educators, and review data to inform continuous improvement. A cross-functional Implementation Team for a district-wide implementation may include district and building administrators, instructional coaches, a technology lead, special education and multilingual learner leaders, and classroom educators.
- Align on Goals and Success Metrics. Define what success looks like for the district, including the metrics and other inputs to measure success.
- Define Expectations and Schedule for Implementation Fidelity. Consider the implementation model(s) (e.g., push-in or pull-out; small-group or whole class) for various schools and instructional settings. Also, it is essential to ensure the master schedule supports fidelity and integrity of use across identified settings (Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3, and/or special education). The Implementation Team may also want to begin proactively considering plans for rollout to additional grades, schools, or settings in subsequent years.
- Communicate the “Why” and the “What” to build buy-in. Educators are more likely to embrace a solution when they understand how it aligns with district goals and supports their students’ needs. They also need clear expectations for program use, reassurance that the master schedule enables fidelity of use, and transparent communication about the support they will receive before, during, and after program launch.
- Achieve Intended Outcomes: Partner with solution providers who will design customized professional learning and support plans to meet district, school, and classroom needs.
Phase 2: Launch
Initial training and onboarding set the stage for educator confidence and fidelity of use.
Here are launch milestones, in sequence:
- Initial Training (Day 1): An in-person, virtual, or on-demand session that prepares educators to begin implementing the program with confidence in their classrooms.
- Digital Onboarding (Day 2 or Week 2): For districts using a blended solution with both print-based and digital components, this separate session introduces educators to the digital tools and how they integrate with print-based instruction.
- First Refresher Training (4-6 weeks post-launch): This critical follow-up session reinforces key concepts, models best practices, analyzes early progress-monitoring data, and addresses implementation challenges.
- Midway District Leadership Check-In: After implementation is underway, this touchpoint provides an opportunity to:
- Review program usage and early outcomes
- Discuss successes and challenges
- Recalibrate supports as needed
Phase 3: Sustaining Momentum and Driving Success
Research shows that “effective implementation involves ensuring that evidence-based practices are implemented with fidelity and supported by ongoing training, coaching, and performance feedback” (Fixsen et al., 2005). Educators are more likely to stay engaged and committed when they experience success, feel supported, and see how their efforts are making an impact.
Ongoing supports include:
- Instructional Coaching: Virtual or face-to-face, job-embedded coaching sessions to reinforce strengths, address challenges, and build educator confidence through collaborative reflection and support. School and district coaches have opportunities to shadow embedded coaches to build internal capacity and sustainability.
- Second Refresher Training: An additional Refresher Training during the second half of the year enables educators to dive deeper into best practices, solidify instructional routines, review data, and ask questions.
- End-of-Year Implementation Review: This session brings together district leaders and EPS Learning partners to:
- Analyze student data and fidelity metrics
- Identify successes and areas for growth
- Plan for summer learning and/or next year’s programming
Celebrate Success. Research confirms that “celebrating success plays a crucial role in maintaining enthusiasm and commitment” (Carlson, 2025). School and district leaders play a crucial role in recognizing and celebrating milestones throughout the year. This can take many forms, such as:
- Award programs that honor educators, administrators, and students
- Public recognition through newsletters, social media, or community events
- Positive shout-outs during morning announcements, staff meetings, or professional learning sessions
Positive, strengths-based feedback can fuel motivation, reinforce effective practices, and foster a growth mindset across the school community.
Partners in Successful Implementation: What to Expect from EPS Learning
At EPS Learning, we view implementation as a true partnership. We don’t simply deliver solutions—we work alongside district and school teams every step of the way to ensure success for all. Here is what to expect:
- Strategic planning for a smooth rollout and ongoing, customized support
- Teacher-centered professional learning tailored to meet educators’ needs
- Job-embedded coaching to build confidence and refine practice
- Data reviews and reflective planning to drive continuous improvement
- Responsive service to ensure everyone gets the help they need when they need it.
Leading for Literacy Impact
Rolling out a new literacy solution can feel daunting, but with a strong plan, a committed team, and the right partner, it becomes a catalyst for transformation. This guide offers a blueprint for a successful launch and long-term success, helping districts translate their investment into measurable gains in student achievement and increased teacher confidence and effectiveness.