The Reading League Reveals 2027 Event Schedule with Keynote Speakers

SYRACUSE, N.Y., October 13, 2026 – The Reading League (TRL), committed to promoting evidence-based reading instruction, has disclosed its major events for 2027. Educators and literacy advocates can look forward to the Reading League Summit taking place April 8–9 in Orlando, Florida, followed by the 11th Annual Conference from September 29 to October 1 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Registration is currently open for both events.

Significance of TRL's Events

The announcement was made during TRL's 10th Annual Conference in Chicago, an event that marked a decade of significant advancements in reading instruction grounded in solid research and evidence. Over the years, TRL has positioned itself at the forefront of literacy education, emphasizing the urgency for evidence-based methodologies in teaching. Reading instruction isn’t just another facet of education; it’s the foundation for lifelong learning and success. The fact that TRL is facilitating such prominent events speaks volumes about both the organization’s commitment and the pressing need for effective literacy strategies in schools today.

“The Reading League thrives on the dedication of its community. Our events in 2027 aim to facilitate connections among educators, researchers, and leaders,” said Dr. Maria Murray, president and CEO of The Reading League. “Whether participants join us in Orlando or Charlotte—ideally both—we’re excited to craft experiences that inspire meaningful learning and effective practices.”

Summit Focus: Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) – Orlando, Fla.

The 2027 Summit, hosted at the Rosen Centre Hotel, will center around the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). This approach is integral to modern educational frameworks, offering a tiered method of intervention and support catering to diverse student needs. Attendees can anticipate a dynamic and interactive experience designed to transcend traditional lectures, fostering hands-on engagement with MTSS strategies. This model enables educators to identify students who require additional assistance, ensuring that interventions are tailored and effective. The shift towards collaboration is essential—encouraging school and district teams to participate together ensures that knowledge gained at the summit can be integrated back at their institutions immediately.

11th Annual Conference Details: Charlotte, N.C.

Set for September 29–October 1, 2027, the 11th Annual Conference at the Charlotte Convention Center promises to gather thousands of educators, researchers, policymakers, advocates, and leaders in literacy from across the globe. This assembly isn't just about networking; it’s about sharing insights and forming strategies that can transform how reading is taught. This year’s event will feature distinguished keynote speakers:

• Dan Heath, acclaimed author of six New York Times bestsellers—including Upstream and The Power of Moments. With his books translated into 35 languages and over 4 million copies sold, Heath is recognized for his insights into driving meaningful change in both individuals and organizations. His unique perspective can provide attendees with actionable strategies to enact change in their own educational environments.
• Dr. Gholdy Muhammad, Professor at the University of Illinois Chicago and author of Cultivating Genius: An Equity Framework for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy. Her closing keynote will present the HILL Model, an equity framework aimed at uplifting students’ identities and literacies. The focus on equity in literacy education is increasingly vital, as it emphasizes the importance of not just teaching skills, but recognizing the cultural contexts from which students come.

More speakers and comprehensive programming details are expected to be revealed in the forthcoming months, hinting at an even broader scope of essential topics for educators grappling with reading instruction.

Registration and Accessibility

Registration is underway for both events, featuring early-bird rates and group discounts to encourage participation. It’s a calculated move; making these events more accessible can lead to greater turnout and engagement. Educators, school administrators, and literacy professionals are urged to register promptly to secure their spots. If you're working in this space, consider this an opportunity not just to learn but to be part of a larger conversation about the evolution of reading instruction. For more information, visit The Reading League Summit and The Reading League Conference.

Future Implications

As TRL prepares for these upcoming events, the implications extend far beyond professional development for educators. These gatherings embody a shift in how literacy is approached on a national level, blending evidence-based research with practical application. The enthusiasm around the MTSS framework and the emphasis on equity highlight a growing recognition that reading instruction must evolve to meet the needs of every student.

And this is the part most people overlook: it’s not merely about providing resources but about fostering a community of practice that can sustain these initiatives long-term. With the increasing focus on data-driven outcomes in educational systems, TRL's direction could influence policy and funding decisions at various levels. The combination of rigorous research and practitioner insight could set new benchmarks for what effective literacy instruction looks like in classrooms across the country.

About The Reading League
The Reading League is a global nonprofit celebrating ten years of impactful work. It promotes evidence-based reading instruction through advocacy, professional learning, and a network of 46 chapters, grounded in the science of reading. The organization emphasizes that all children should learn to read, and educators should have the knowledge to facilitate this process. For details, visit thereadingleague.org.

Media Contact: Soledad Calvino, Director of Public Relations, [email protected], 315-362-2378