research-backed

From regular student assessment to contracting for independent studies, Reading Partners systematically collects, analyzes, and uses data to generate knowledge, improve programs, and report on impacts.

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science of reading

The established and growing research we have about how students learn to read, including systemic phonics education.

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individualized

A facet of high-dosage tutoring in which a tutor offers one-on-one attention to their student, resulting in targeted support, and personalized literacy learning.

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high-dosage

The frequency of a learning experience. For example, Reading Partners students receive twice weekly tutoring for maximum growth.

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educational equity

Ensuring every student, no matter their race, gender, socioeconomic level, or location has access to the resources and support they need to succeed in school and in life.

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Kathy Taylor

Kathy Taylor

Kathy entered public service in 2003 when she was appointed Oklahoma’s Secretary of Commerce, Tourism and Workforce Development. She was instrumental in bringing the second largest Dell facility in the country to Oklahoma City and saving over 7,000 jobs at American Airlines. Kathy was elected mayor of Tulsa in 2006. While serving as mayor, she led several initiatives, including investment in Tulsa’s streets, a comprehensive land-use plan (PlaniTulsa), and creating support services for those serving in the armed forces and veterans of the military.

Kathy’s education initiatives included the creation of afterschool and mentoring programs serving over 500 K-5 students. After completing her term as Mayor, Kathy served as Oklahoma’s Chief of Education Strategy and Innovation. She spearheaded a reform plan developed for the Race to the Top grant competition that included a vision for a transformed public education system with higher academic standards, new assessments and data systems. The plan became law with the passage of the Oklahoma Teacher and Leader Effectiveness Act.

In 2012, Kathy served as a resident fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics, teaching a course on the Pathways to Public Service. Prior to entering pubic service, Kathy practiced law in the energy, securities and franchise sectors. She also serves on the board of Sonic Industries, the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain.