Principles & Target Schools

Literacy is the gateway to success in life. Literacy begins at birth and continues throughout adulthood. Literacy encompasses all modes of language: reading writing, speaking, listening, viewing, and visually representing. All six modes will be instrumental in the practices of The Teachers College Literacy Center. Literacy develops through engagement and discussion; that is, meaning is paramount.

Family & Culture

Literacy growth is multi-generational. Literacy development begins in the natural environment of a family unit.

Social Interactions

Literacy develops through interactions with parents, caregivers, peers, and the culture in general.

Developmentally Appropriate

Literacy and language are acquired over the course of the lifetime. Understanding and recognizing the developmental stages of literacy is key.

Learning Experiences

Everyone needs literacy support at one time or another throughout her/his literacy encounters in life. All learners are entitled to high-quality literacy experiences in a variety of formats in order to support this process.

Research

Research provides the theoretical foundation for literacy.