Join Valley Leadership’s Leaders for Literacy initiative and make a direct impact on Arizona classrooms
Be a Leader for Literacy Spring 2026
Across our state, only 36% of third-grade students are reading proficiently, a 3% decline from last year. Teachers are working hard to close that gap, but they can’t do it alone. That’s where you come in.
What You’ll Do
Here's what you can expect as a Leader for Literacy substitute:
🧑🏫 You’ll be paired with a classroom teacher who is attending specialized professional development in the Science of Reading, learning how to help students build stronger literacy skills.
👋 You’ll substitute in their classroom for one day each month, from January through April (four total days).
🗓️ Dates are pre-assigned based on the district you’re paired with.
💰 This is a paid opportunity, and many Leaders choose to donate their earnings back to support their classroom or school.
To participate, you’ll need to complete the Arizona Department of Education substitute certification process, so start your onboarding early to allow time for processing!
Leaders for Literacy Partner Districts
Districts You Could Be Placed In
Trainings + Development
Before stepping into the classroom, you’ll attend training sessions to learn how to read a lesson plan and manage a classroom effectively.
Participants will also have the opportunity to attend optional lunch and learns, paired with a Learning Experience Journal to reflect on what you observe about Arizona’s education system and your role in it.
Why Get Involved?
When you volunteer your time and talent through Leaders for Literacy, you’re not just filling in, you’re building up.
Teachers are deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue learning and improving their practice.
Students are excited to see community members show up for them in meaningful ways.
You gain valuable insight into Arizona’s education system and the lives of young learners, insight you can take back to your community and use to advocate for lasting change.
“Classroom experience is invaluable. It both reinforces and challenges my understanding of the education system.”
— Current Leader for Literacy Participant