How AIM’s Multi-Year Collaboration with Mississippi Keeps Literacy Progress on Track

Over the past decade, Mississippi has made remarkable strides in literacy, achieving what many have termed the "Mississippi Miracle." Yet, those closely involved understand this success was no inexplicable miracle, but rather the result of sustained momentum built in part through AIM Institute's partnership with the state. Through intentional and thoughtfully-planned professional development with both in-person and asynchronous material tailored to the unique needs of Mississippi, AIM has helped support Mississippi’s literacy gains and support teachers and leaders implementing structured literacy in the classroom. In this blog, we share how this partnership has laid the groundwork for ongoing improvement in K-3 literacy outcomes statewide.

The Early Stages of Collaboration

Recognizing the urgent need for change, Mississippi identified gaps in teacher training and instructional practices that were preventing students from reaching their full potential. Enter AIM Institute, whose Pathways courses—Pathways to Proficient Reading and Pathways to Literacy Leadership—matched Mississippi’s requirements for building foundational literacy knowledge. These courses were crucial in helping Mississippi educators align research with practical application. The early stages of collaboration focused on offering these courses to teachers and administrators, while also establishing a coaching model to support the implementation of new instructional strategies.

Developing Comprehensive Literacy Programs

AIM Institute understood the value of building a strong community of practice. Through regular meetings, educators could learn from experts in their field and share their experiences and challenges, fostering a supportive environment for professional growth. Embracing cultural competency and inclusivity, AIM's training approach empowered teachers to address diverse classroom needs. Mississippi literacy leaders also worked hard to ensure the adoption of HQIM materials that were aligned with scientific principles of reading they were learning about in AIM courses. 

Progress and Impact of the Partnership

AIM Institute’s partnership has been transformative in shaping the skills and confidence of the more than 1,600 Mississippi educators who have participated in AIM's training programs so far. AIM-trained educators consistently report improved proficiency in implementing structured literacy practices. Data in one school district shows that students with AIM-trained teachers outperform those without in all five core literacy components. Beyond individual classrooms, AIM has continued to support Mississippi's statewide shift in how literacy education is perceived and practiced.

Sustaining Literacy Momentum

Both the state of Mississippi and AIM Institute understand that sustained progress requires ongoing learning. That’s why educators receive continuous training through regular professional development sessions and a network of resources that keep them up-to-date on best practices. The partnership also nurtures visionary leadership, developing forward-thinking administrators who champion high literacy standards. The Mississippi Department of Education also recognizes the critical role of families and provides literacy nights and resources to empower parents to support their children’s reading journeys.

As Mississippi and AIM continue to refine their approach, data remains central to shaping future strategies. By analyzing trends and responding to evolving needs, the partnership adapts to ensure students receive the best literacy education possible. The lessons learned in Mississippi offer valuable insights that could benefit other states seeking to replicate this literacy success. AIM remains steadfast in its commitment to sustaining progress and creating an equitable educational landscape where every student thrives.

Evidence-Based Literacy Instruction with AIM Institute

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About AIM Institute: The AIM Institute for Learning & Research® is a non-profit center for educational excellence and professional development, providing educators with the latest research, technology, and evidence-based practices in the fields of literacy and language-based learning disabilities.