Latest Past Events
Wasatch Reading Summit – Applying the Science of Reading in the Classroom 2026
Miller Conference Center 9750 S 300 W, SandyWelcome to the Wasatch Reading Summit
Imagine a future where every child has the opportunity to become a confident, successful reader. That’s the vision behind the Wasatch Reading Summit.
This inspiring conference brings together educators, administrators, interventionists, and parents who are passionate about improving literacy outcomes for all students. As schools work to address reading difficulties and support students with dyslexia, the summit provides the latest evidence-based practices grounded in the Science of Reading.
Through nationally recognized speakers, practical breakout sessions, and meaningful professional learning, attendees will leave with research-backed strategies they can immediately apply in classrooms and intervention settings. Together, we can bridge the gap between research and practice and ensure that every student in Utah has access to effective reading instruction.
We hope you’ll join us for this impactful day of learning, collaboration, and inspiration.
Featured Speakers
Gabriel DellaVecchia
Gabriel DellaVecchia has written and presented extensively on third-grade reading legislation and retention policies. He will share his expertise on the legal landscape, the research behind these policies, and their impact on students, educators, and schools.
Jeanne Schopf
Students with dyslexia deserve more than awareness—they deserve instruction that changes outcomes. Jeanne Schopf shares powerful stories and practical insights on how explicit, evidence-based instruction and aligned school systems can transform literacy success for every student. She will also address the unique challenges of providing effective literacy instruction for adolescent and secondary learners.
Breakout Featured Speaker
Mark Weakland
Mark Weakland will present engaging, practical classroom activities that align with Structured Literacy and the Science of Reading. Participants will leave with highly effective instructional strategies they can implement immediately to strengthen reading instruction.
Speed Puzzle Competition
SLCC Larry Miller Campus 9750 S 300 W, SandyROUND UP YOUR PALS AND KIN FOR A WHIRLWIND NIGHT OF TURBO-CHARGED PUZZLING! EVERY PENNYRAISED HELPS THE DECODING DYSLEXIA FOUNDATION!
SCORE A WIN IN YOUR BRACKET
TO EARN $250!
100-200 PIECES
$60 FAMILY: TEAM OF 4-6 KIDS & ADULTS
13 AND UNDER PLUS 2 ADULTS
300 PIECES
$60 TEENS: TEAM OF 4
TEENS 14-18 OR TEENS AND ADULTS
S60 ADULTS: TEAM OF 4
18+ ADULTS
Wasatch Reading Summit – Applying the Science of Reading in the Classroom 2025
Miller Conference Center 9750 S 300 W, SandyImagine a world where every student unlocks the power of reading. That's the bold vision behind the Wasatch Reading Summit, a transformative event for educators and parents fighting on the front lines of literacy. Faced with the stark reality of students grappling with reading proficiency and the pervasive challenge of dyslexia, this conference isn't just a gathering—it's a beacon of hope, illuminating the path forward with cutting-edge, evidence-based strategies and revolutionary research in the Science of Reading. By pouring into professional development and mentorship, the summit doesn't just equip teachers; the Wasatch Reading Summit is about igniting a revolution in student support, ultimately shattering the barriers to reading proficiency for every single student in Utah. We hope you'll join us!
Keynote: The Evolving Definition of Dyslexia: What New Research Means for Practice: Understanding the latest insights into the neurological and cognitive underpinnings of dyslexia.
Tim Odegard, Professor of Psychology and Chairholder of the Katherine Davis Murfree Chair of Excellence in Dyslexic Studies at Middle Tennessee State University, is a renowned expert in dyslexia research. With a background in developmental cognitive psychology, Dr. Odegard’s pioneering work centers on reading difficulties and dyslexia. His research spans the identification of struggling readers, effective intervention methods, and comprehensive teacher training. Notably, he serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Annals of Dyslexia and has made significant contributions to improving literacy services for all learners, including individuals with dyslexia. Recognized for his outstanding dedication, Dr. Odegard has received prestigious awards, including the Luke Waites ALTA Award of Service and the IMSLEC Innovator Award for his impactful work in the field.
Breakouts to be announced soon!