The Summit on the Science of Reading in Higher Education concluded with something truly special. It was an opportunity to connect personally with authors whose work is shaping teacher preparation and professional learning around the world.
Lindsay Kemeny, Joan Sedita, Molly Ness, Sarah Brown, Stephanie Stollar, Nancy Hennessy, Elsa Cardenas-Hagan, Lyn Stone, Jan Hasbrouck, and Anita Archer each brought insight, humility, and conviction about how their work can be used to deepen understanding and transform practice.
It was inspiring to hear these authors speak not just about their books, but about their intent.
Molly Ness shared the importance of planning for Read Alouds and with refreshing honesty, admitted that this was not something she used to do. A reminder that reflection and growth are part of every teacher’s story.
Joan Sedita discussed her book The Writing Rope, which bridges research and practical application. It enables teachers to translate the strands of the writing rope into teachable components within their literacy blocks, making the complex act of writing visible and actionable for both teachers and learners.
Lindsay Kemeny spoke about her two books, 7 Mighty Moves and Rock Your Literacy Block. 7 Mighty Moves focuses on what to teach, the high-impact practices that make the greatest difference for student learning. Rock Your Literacy Block helps teachers design how to teach, creating purposeful, evidence-aligned literacy blocks that make time for what matters most. Her message was empowering. Clarity comes from knowing what truly moves learning forward.
Throughout these conversations there was a shared recognition that while technology allows us to access information instantly, true learning takes time. Skimming and scanning will never replace the deep reading, reflection, and repeated exposure required to move knowledge to long-term memory and into classroom practice.
We did not need reminding of this truth, but it deeply resonated, reinforcing what we know to be true about lasting professional growth. Professional learning must go beyond awareness. It must embed knowledge, refine practice, and build the habits of mind that lead to sustained change.
These authors reminded us that books are not just resources. They are catalysts for transformation when used with intention and depth.
Our challenge now is to slow down, go deep, and use this knowledge as a vehicle for change that lasts.
