Generated by All in One SEO Pro v4.9.9, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Building Wings How ALL learners soar: Research-based Inclusive Classroom Literacy Instruction Solutions ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.buildingwings.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [10 Top Tips for New Special Education Teachers](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/10-top-tips-for-new-special-education-teachers/) - Even the most veteran teacher can feel anxious about a new school year starting. These 10 top tips for new special education teachers can help you feel at ease - [Readtopia Thematic Unit: Exploring Space - Neil deGrasse Tyson: Stargazer](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/readtopia-thematic-unit-exploring-space-neil-degrasse-tyson-stargazer/) - Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson is the inspiration for a comprehensive literacy unit introducing students receiving special education services to the solar system. - [Addressing the Most Diverse Learning Needs: Allison Dennis, Readtopia’s Differentiation Architect](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/addressing-the-most-diverse-learning-needs-allison-dennis-readtopias-differentiation-architect/) - Better is always possible, Allison believes. "How can we get there?" she asks. Readtopia is making it possible every day. - [Shared Reading Books: Recommendations from Dr. David Koppenhaver](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/shared-reading-books-recommendations-from-dr-david-koppenhaver/) - Shared Reading book recommendations from Dr. David Koppenhaver for emergent learners to build early language skills that promote literacy learning. - [Student Choice: Opportunities for Student-Led Learning](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/student-choice-opportunities-for-student-led-learning/) - Six ways to add opportunities for student choice and student-led learning for ALL learners including students receiving special education services. - [How to Whitelist an Email Address or Domain](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/how-to-whitelist-an-email/) - Step-by-step instructions for how to whitelist an email address or domain so emails you want to receive are not blocked. - [From Politics to Practice: Integrating the Science of Reading with the Literacy Needs of All Learners](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/integrating-science-of-reading-with-needs/) - Explore taking the Science of Reading from politics to practice inside the classroom, so your learners to take the next steps in their literacy journey. - [How to Choose a Special Education Curriculum That Actually Builds Readers](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-special-education-curriculum/) - How to choose a special education curriculum that builds real readers with explicit instruction, access for all learners, and Science of Reading alignment. - [5 Key Takeaways from the Book Comprehensive Literacy for All](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/comprehensive-literacy-for-all-takeaways/) - Discover 5 key takeaways from the book Comprehensive Literacy for All and implement practical strategies to teach reading and writing to every student. - [6 Myths About Literacy Why and How They Hold Educators and Students With Disabilities Back](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/myths-about-literacy/) - Maureen Donnelly outlines common myths about literacy and how these misconceptions limit access, instruction, and progress for students with disabilities. - [Pitfalls of Using Symbolated Text For Literacy Instruction](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/pitfalls-of-using-symbolated-text-for-literacy-instruction/) - While symbol use in classrooms are helpful for providing visual support there are four main pitfalls for using symbolated text for literacy instruction. - [How Controlled Chaos Can Cost You: Using Systematic Instruction For Literacy Learning](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/systematic-instruction-for-literacy-learning/) - Read an in-depth blog about how systematic instruction improves literacy outcomes for students with disabilities and supports teachers across classrooms. - [Structured Literacy Instruction Using Poetry](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/structured-literacy-instruction-using-poetry/) - Structured literacy instruction using poetry and the story of Amanda Gorman. A Readtopia thematic unit that incorporates the science of reading and SEL. - [Readtopia Thematic Unit—Fact or Fiction anchored by The Wizard of Oz brings inquiry to the special education classroom](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/new-readtopia-thematic-unit-fact-or-fiction-anchored-by-the-wizard-of-oz-brings-inquiry-to-the-special-education-classroom/) - Special education thematic unit Fact or Fiction anchored by The Wizard of Oz teaches students the difference between truth and make-believe. - [Social Emotional Learning Comes to Readtopia](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/readtopia-is-growing-2/) - Readtopia is Growing with a new Thematic Unit - Empathy, Grit, and Kindness including new features and lessons on Social-Emotional Learning. - [Readtopia Unit: Stronger Together Anchored in the Secret Gardener](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/readtopia-unit-stronger-together-anchored-in-the-secret-gardener/) - Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic novel inspires a special education curricular rich in nature and history. A Readtopia unit anchored in "The Secret Gardener." - [Five Benefits of a Consistent Literacy Instruction Framework](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/benefits-of-a-consistent-literacy-instruction-framework/) - Benefits to using consistent literacy instruction especially for students receiving special education services as they advance to different grades and schools. - [Top 10 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Special Education Reading Curriculum](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/top-10-questions-to-ask-when-choosing-a-special-education-reading-curriculum-2/) - Your curriculum and resources shape everything that happens in your special education classroom. What Questions are you asking when making your decision? - [Classroom Walkthroughs that Benefits Teachers and Students](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/classroom-walkthrough/) - A principal shares classroom walkthrough strategies that provide opportunities to support teacher development, shape school culture, and support all learners. - [Comprehensive Literacy Instruction Without the DIY— How one special education teacher restored balance in her classroom and life](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/comprehensive-literacy-instruction-without-the-diy-how-one-special-education-teacher-restored-balance-in-her-classroom-and-life/) - I spent personal time rewriting a comprehensive literacy, fitting in science, social studies, and balancing that with life skills. Then I found Readtopia. - [How to Provide Specially Designed Instruction for All](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/how-to-provide-specially-designed-instruction-in-special-education/) - Examples of how to provide specially designed instruction in K-12 self-contained classrooms and learning spaces to meet a wide range of student needs. - [Making Reading Meaningful — A Teacher's Journey](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/making-reading-a-teachers-journey-2/) - Learn about special educator Carrie Ponitz and her journey with Readtopia, turning reading time from a chore into something wonderful for learners and educators. - [Shared Reading and Reading Out Loud: Benefits and Differences](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/shared-reading-and-reading-out-loud-benefits-and-differences/) - Explore the differences between shared reading and reading out loud, including best practices for both. - [Negative Behaviors with Autism: Why it Happens and Eight Ways to Help](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/negative-behaviors-with-autism-why-it-happens-and-eight-ways-to-help/) - Why negative behaviors with autism are prevalent in the classroom. Discover the "why" behind the behavior and learn tried-and-true solutions. - [How School Culture Impacts High Expectations for Learners](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/school-culture-impacts-high-expectations-for-learners/) - Explore what an experienced educator does to help cultivate school culture to set and meet high expectations for all learners, from first person experience. - [Teaching Alphabet Letters and Sounds Using Letter of the Day](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/teaching-alphabet-letters-and-sounds/) - The research behind teaching alphabet letters and sounds including letter of the day vs letter of the week approaches. - [Free Decodable Books Help Bring Reading Routines To Life](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/monarch-reader-decodable-books/) - Discover how Monarch Reader supports beginning readers with decodable books, personalized access, and tools aligned with the Science of Reading. - [Building Background Knowledge with World News for Students](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/building-background-knowledge-with-world-news-for-students/) - How to build background knowledge with world news for students receiving special education services. Connecting classrooms to the world with Newstopia. - [Tar Heel Reader Joins Building Wings as Monarch Reader](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tar-heel-reader-joins-building-wings-as-monarch-reader/) - Announcement by Dr Karen Erickson: Tar Heel Reader will be renamed Monarch Reader under Building Wings, continuing as asource for shared reading books. - [How I Connect the Dots Between Life Skills and Curriculum Content](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/how-i-connect-the-dots-between-life-skills-and-curriculum-content-wtc/) - Not without challenges, Special Education Teacher Erlind Laci connected the dots between Life Skills and Curriculum Content at Kirk School, and here's how. - [Re-Defining the Special Education Classroom at MacArthur Middle School](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/re-defining-special-education-classroom-wtc-2/) - Abbey Lynch from MacArthur Middle School in Prospect Heights, IL shares her use of Readtopia and how it has redifned her special education classroom. - [Strong Special Education Resources Showed What was Possible for my Students](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/strong-special-education-resources-showed-what-was-possible-wtc-2/) - Strong special education resources showed Jeanmarie Jacoby, a special education teacher of 30 years, what's possible for her students with complex needs. - [How I (Finally!) Challenged My Special Education Students](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/how-i-finally-challenged-my-special-education-students-wtc-2/) - A common frustration for special education students in self-contained classrooms is having trouble catching up. Rather, they end up falling further behind. - [New Readtopia Thematic Unit — Bodies that Work](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/new-readtopia-thematic-unit-bodies-that-work/) - The theme, Bodies that Work introduces students to biology concepts, and the reading component of Bodies that Work features Jane Goodall. - [Bringing Stories to Life: Jerry Stemach, Readtopia’s Chief Storyteller](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/bringing-stories-to-life-jerry-stemach-readtopias-chief-storyteller/) - Jerry Stemach has something special and disarming about him. That thing turns out to be the driving force behind Readtopia. - [Building Communication through Literacy for Students with Intensive Disabilities—The inspiring story of Carter School](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/building-communication-through-literacy-for-students-with-intensive-disabilities-the-inspiring-story-of-carter-school/) - “Meaningful, purposeful communication is at the heart of learning to read and write... the primary purpose of literacy is communication.” - [Using Reflective and Tell Me Questions as a Part of Shared Reading Instruction](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/using-reflective-and-tell-me-questions-statements-as-a-part-of-shared-reading-instruction/) - Readtopia is well suited to using both Follow the CAR and Put the CROWD in the CAR strategies during shared reading of the text. - [Engaging Special Ed Classrooms with Video: Mike Byrne’s Quest to Bring the World to Students](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/engaging-special-ed-classrooms-with-video-mike-byrnes-quest-to-bring-the-world-to-students/) - Head of Readtopia's video production, Mike Byrne's quest is engaging special education classrooms with videos of the world. - [NASA Scientist Featured in New Readtopia Thematic Unit](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/nasa-scientist-featured-in-new-readtopia-thematic-unit/) - Anchored by “Diana Trujillo: A Space Scientist”, the Readtopia literacy instruction unit called Making Dreams Come True is an upper elementary unit about space. - [Teacher Support for Readtopia: Thematic Unit Introduction Videos](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/teacher-support-for-readtopia-thematic-unit-introduction-videos/) - Readtopia includes multiple teacher supports including introduction videos for educators to view an overview of the content of each literacy instruction unit. - [Building Wings Acquires Knowledge Unlimited](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/building-wings-acquires-knowledge-unlimited/) - As part of a recent press release, Building Wings, Inc, announced the acquisition of Knowledge Unlimited, a provider of supplementary learning materials. - [ReadtopiaGO Introduced to Special Educators](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/readtopiago-introduced-to-special-educators/) - ReadtopiaGO Introduced to Special Educators Special Educators received an overview of the ReadtopiaGO early-literacy curriculum for learners with complex learning profiles at Closing The Gap 2022. For years, special educators have used Readtopia, a comprehensive literacy curriculum for learners with complex needs. While Readtopia provides an instructional foundation for learners in grades three through high - [Engaging Literacy Instruction for Learners with Complex Needs](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/engaging-literacy-instruction-for-learners-with-complex-needs/) - What distinguishes one special education curriculum from another? Comparing Readtopia with other curricula - what makes it different and why it matters. - [Be That Person](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/be-that-person-with-dr-karen-erickson/) - At the 2022 Virtual Summer Literacy Summit, Dr. Karen Erickson challenged special educators to "Be That Person. Hear a recording of her inspirational message. - [Repetition with Variety: An Element of Literacy Instruction](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/repetition-with-variety-an-element-of-literacy-instruction-for-learners-with-significant-disabilities/) - How and why to build a foundation of literacy learning for students with significant disabilities through repetition with variety. - [Evidence of Impact of Comprehensive Literacy Instruction](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/evidence-of-impact-of-comprehensive-literacy-instruction/) - Lisa Erwin-Davidson, Ph.D, CCC-SLP, shares insights from her on-going study on the impact of comprehensive literacy instruction in special education classrooms. - [Readtopia Thematic Unit: Social Justice: All Means All, anchored by Rolling Warrior](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/readtopia-unit-social-justice-anchored-by-rolling-warrior/) - Judith Heumann's leveled adaptation of her memoir anchors a Readtopia writing curriculum unit centered on the theme that equal rights are human rights. - [Readtopia: Shorts–Mini Units Designed for Days, Not Weeks](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/readtopia-shorts-mini-literacy-instruction-units/) - Readtopia: Shorts! Explore four mini-literacy instruction units, part of the Readtopia curriculum, for students receiving special education services. - [Morning Message Ideas for Preschool and Elementary Classrooms](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/morning-message-ideas/) - Morning message ideas for preschool and elementary classrooms including strategies to incorporate literacy learning and free templates for teachers to use. - [The Benefits of Using Puppets in Early Childhood Classrooms](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/benefits-of-using-puppets-in-early-childhood-classrooms/) - A special education teacher shares the moment she discovered the benefits of using puppets in early childhood classrooms and how to use them to engage learners - [IEP Accommodations vs. Modifications: What’s the Difference?](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/iep-accommodations-vs-modifications/) - The terms IEP Accommodations and IEP Modifications are often used interchangeably but they are different. Explore the role each plays in IEPs and 504 Plans. - [Special Education Acronyms: Definitions for IEP Teams](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/special-education-acronyms/) - Definitions of commonly used special education acronyms and terms in IEP Meetings and documentations including LEA, MAG, ESY and FERPA. - [Writing Effective IEP Goals](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/writing-effective-iep-goals/) - Strategies for writing effective IEP goals using a 4-component system and a consistent framework including examples of effective IEP goals for writing. - [Tough Conversations: How to Discuss a Sensitive News Topic with Students](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/how-to-discuss-a-sensitive-news-topic-with-students/) - Strategies on how to talk with students about a sensitive news topic and navigate tough classroom conversations when information streams are just a click away. - [Least Restrictive Environment Definition and Considerations for IEP Teams](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/least-restrictive-environment-definition/) - Defining Least Restrictive Environment for students receiving special education services and how IEP Teams ensure free and appropriate public education (FAPE.) - [Building Background Knowledge with Multimodal Learning](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/building-background-knowledge-with-multimodal-learning/) - Strategies for using a multimodal learning experiences to build background knowledge to increase reading comprehension and student participation. - [How to Develop Critical Thinking Skills in Students](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/how-to-develop-critical-thinking-skills-in-students/) - Using news articles and class discussion as a strategy for how to develop critical thinking skills in students including five ways to facilitate discussions. - [Teaching Current Events: Benefits and Classroom Strategies](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/teaching-current-events-benefits-and-classroom-strategies/) - Connect your classroom to the world by teaching current events using eight practical classroom strategies that engage students. - [How to Build Vocabulary using Current Events](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/how-to-build-vocabulary-using-current-events/) - Five strategies for how to build vocabulary using current events for ALL learners in grades 3-high school+ including teaching vocabulary in context. - [Bulletin Board Ideas for Teachers: They’re More Than Decoration](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/bulletin-board-ideas-for-teachers-and-special-educators/) - Bulletin board ideas for teachers and special educators including five ways bulletin boards can be used to showcase student work and literacy instruction. - [Readtopia Adds Differentiated Math Lessons to 25+ Thematic Units](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/readtopia-adds-differentiated-math-lessons-to-25-thematic-units/) - We are thrilled to announce integrated math lessons for dozens of Readtopia’s thematic units! - [Supporting Teachers and Students with Instructional Coaching](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/supporting-teachers-and-students-with-instructional-coaching/) - Strategies for supporting special educators with instructional coaching including external coaches with experience in research-based literacy instruction. - [Inclusive Literacy Instruction: Koppenhaver Defines- For ALL](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/inclusive-literacy-instruction-koppenhaver-defines-for-all/) - Defining what inclusive literacy instruction means and what it looks like. Excerpts from Dr. David Koppenhaver's keynote at the Leading with Literacy Summit. - [Teacher Support for Readtopia: Thematic Unit Introduction Videos](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/new-teacher-support-for-readtopia-thematic-unit-introduction-videos/) - Find increased teacher support with Readtopia Introduction Videos to make selecting the next Readtopia unit easier. - [I'll See it When I Believe It](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/ill-see-it-when-i-believe-it-2/) - Reject the pessimistic “I’ll believe it when I see it” attitude and believe first! a message from Don Johnston, a student with Dyslexia in the 1950s, - [Readtopia at Home: Supporting Students with Complex Needs](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/readtopia-at-home-supporting-students-with-complex-needs/) - How do I support students with complex needs when they’re not in school? What resources are available that will work for eLearning? Enter Readtopia at home. - [New Readtopia Thematic Unit — A Story of Survival anchored by The Swiss Family Robinson for Upper Elementary](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/story-of-survival/) - The theme, A Story of Survival teaches students that there are always challenges in life. It takes tenacity to overcome those challenges. - [New Readtopia Thematic Unit— Mysteries and Mummies anchored by King Tut](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/new-readtopia-thematic-unit-mysteries-and-mummies-anchored-by-king-tut/) - This Readtopia thematic unit, Mysteries and Mummies, teaches students that it takes tenacity to overcome life's challenges. - [Press Release: Don Johnston Incorporated Joins Texthelp Group](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/don-johnston-incorporated-joins-texthelp-group-edtech-giants-join-forces-to-help-students-across-north-america-and-the-globe/) - The addition of Don Johnston Inc.’s leading product suite, expertise, and skill set will expand Texthelp’s leadership in helping individuals better understand. - [Texthelp and Don Johnston Incorporated join forces](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/texthelp-and-don-johnston-incorporated-join-forces/) - Two edtech giants are coming together to strengthen assistive technology for the world. - [Press Release: Don Johnston’s Curriculum Division Forges New Company, Building Wings™](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/don-johnstons-curriculum-division-forges-new-company-building-wings/) - Don Johnston has formed a new company, Building Wings™ to expand its comprehensive literacy curriculum to focus on the needs of teachers working with students. - [Presuming Competence: Perspectives in Learning Journeys](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/presuming-competence-perspectives-in-learning-journeys/) - Using lessons from the beach to illustrate the importance of honoring different learning journeys, and presuming competence of all learners. - [Words that Wow: Exposing Children to Rich Vocabulary](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/words-that-wow-exposing-children-to-rich-vocabulary/) - Vocabulary strategies for students receiving special education services. Why they should be exposed to rich vocabulary words and playful literacy environments. - [eLearning and Inequity—Why Districts are Turning to Accessible Technologies](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/elearning-and-inequity-why-districts-are-turning-to-accessible-technologies/) - eLearning came like a stranger in the night. Accessible technologies have become a part of the solution and core component of district infrastructure. ## Pages - [Home 2026](https://www.buildingwings.com/) - Access curriculum solutions and literacy resources for special education to achieve positive literacy outcomes, student engagement and world knowledge - [Navigation Assistance](https://www.buildingwings.com/navigation-assistance/) - Navigation Assistance You may be arriving to this page after clicking on a link for a page that is no longer available on this website.For literacy curriculum solutions for students with complex needs, we suggest you visit the following website pages:• ReadtopiaGO for Pre-K-second grade +• Readtopia for third grade – high school +If you - [Readtopia](https://www.buildingwings.com/readtopia/) - An overview of Readtopia: A research-based special ed literacy instruction curriculum for students in grades 3-high school+ with age-respectful materials. - [Blog](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/) - Articles and blog posts for special education teachers, school SLPs, school-based OTs and AT specialists who provide literacy instruction or support. - [News Currents](https://www.buildingwings.com/news-currents/) - Teach current events, provide learners in grades 3-High School+ with background knowledge and promote communication with News Currents instructional materials. - [Legal Information](https://www.buildingwings.com/legal-information/) - Building Wings LLCTerms of Service and Legal Information Effective April 16th, 2026 Privacy Policy for Products & Services Readtopia Privacy PolicyReadtopiaGO Privacy PolicyMonarch Reader Privacy PolicyNews Currents Privacy PolicyNewstopia Privacy PolicyLast updated April 16th, 2026 Communications Privacy Policy For visitors to this website (buildingwings.com), NOT for students and teachers using our products Click here to read - [Monarch Reader: Books for Beginning Readers of All Ages](https://www.buildingwings.com/monarch-reader-books-for-beginning-readers-of-all-ages/) - Explore Monarch Reader: 25,000+ free and accessible digital books for special education and beginning readers of all ages. Previously known as Tar Heel Reader. - [Products](https://www.buildingwings.com/products/) - Differentiated. Engaging. Purposeful. Our evidence-based special education resources are designed to help ALL students reach new heights in their literacy learning. REQUEST A QUOTE Literacy Instruction Resources to Help All Learners Soar ALL students are capable of experiencing learning breakthroughs. They just need opportunity—and the right resources. Readtopia® Engage ALL students in learning phonics and - [Webinars](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinars/) - Webinars Watch webinars hosted by Building Wings tokeep up with the latest developmentsin special education. Stay Informed of New Webinars Register Now for Free Our free webinars cover timely topics like new education standards, high-stakes testing, accommodations, and beyond. You can join in webinars live or watch replays on demand. 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Materials are provided with clear guidance so even - [Contact](https://www.buildingwings.com/contact/) - Contact Building Wings in Volo, IL Product Support: (847) 238-8889 Product Support Product support is available Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM CST Email Support@BuildingWings.com SEND A MESSAGE Home Office Our home office is available Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM CT Email Soar@BuildingWings.com SEND A MESSAGE Address 26799 W. 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Whether you are exploring literacy solutions, - [Support](https://www.buildingwings.com/support/) - Support Whether you are just getting started with Building Wings, a veteran user, or somewhere in between, you can find the information you’re looking for here. Technical Support Get information about product updates, software requirements, billing, and more. CONTACT US Product ResourcesLearn how to navigate our products with easy-to-use reference guides. LEARN MORE Professional DevelopmentMaximize - [ReadtopiaGO](https://www.buildingwings.com/readtopiago/) - A research-based, standards-aligned early literacy curriculum with play-based systematic phonics and reading instruction with videos and educator support. - [Privacy Policy](https://www.buildingwings.com/privacy/) - Building Wings LLCCompany Communications Privacy Policy Effective April 16th, 2026 Please note: We have a separate Privacy Policy for our products and services. Building Wings LLC (“BW”) values your privacy and desires to ensure your experience with Building Wings and related companies (collectively “Building Wings”, “we,” “our” or “us”) and all our communication websites and - [Our Mission](https://www.buildingwings.com/about-us/our-mission/) - Our Mission Led by Don Johnston, Building Wingscreates special education resourcesthat help teachers take ALL students tonew heights in their learning. Helping ALL Students Soar ALL means ALL. Building Wings believes students across ALL learning styles and abilities deserve opportunities to reach new heights in their learning. We love seeing students discover their own abilities - [Building Wings Book](https://www.buildingwings.com/building-wings-book/) - Don Johnston’s Book “Building Wings” An essential read for students with learning barriers, their teachers, and families. GET A FREE DIGITAL COPY Lessons in Self-Confidence All students are capable of experiencing learning breakthroughs. Just ask Don Johnston, the founder and CEO of Building Wings. This is his story as told through the book, "Building Wings." - [eLearning Curriculum](https://www.buildingwings.com/about-us/elearning-curriculum/) - eLearning Curriculum eLearning has created a new set of challenges for students with complex learning barriers. With Readtopia®, educators can help learners reach new heights in and out of the classroom. REQUEST A QUOTE TRY FREE Remote Learning with Readtopia® Readtopia® is an online special education resource derived from Don Johnston’s legacy Start-to-Finish series. The - [Technical Support](https://www.buildingwings.com/technical-support/) - Technical Support Have technical questions about our products? Get support via phone, email, or our FAQ library. 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Products Readtopia ReadtopiaGO Monarch Reader News Currents Useful links Our Mission Our Curriculum Product Resources Technical Support Contact 26799 West Commerce Drive, Volo, Illinois 60073 Soar@BuildingWings.com (847) 238-8889 Facebook-f Instagram Twitter - [Classic Hub Main Footer](https://www.buildingwings.com/?liquid-footer=classic-hub-main-footer) - We create special education instructional resources that help teachers lift ALL students to new heights in their learning—making small leaps that were previously impossible. Products Readtopia ReadtopiaGO Monarch Reader News Currents Useful links Our Mission Our Curriculum Product Resources Technical Support Contact 26799 West Commerce Drive, Volo, Illinois 60073 Soar@BuildingWings.com (847) 238-8889 Facebook-f Instagram Twitter ## Custom Fonts - [Poppins bold](https://www.buildingwings.com/?bsf_custom_fonts=poppins-bold) - [Poppins semibold](https://www.buildingwings.com/?bsf_custom_fonts=poppins-semibold) - [Poppins medium](https://www.buildingwings.com/?bsf_custom_fonts=poppins-medium) - [Poppins regular](https://www.buildingwings.com/?bsf_custom_fonts=poppins-regular) ## Webinars - [The Math Behind Early Counting: Building Number Sense for Students With Complex Learning Needs](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/math-for-students-with-complex-learning-needs/) - Learn how to teach number sense through intentional counting routines for students with complex learning needs using research-based math instruction. - [Teaching Reading & Writing in Special Education: 10 Conditions That Drive Success](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/teaching-reading-and-writing-ten-conditions-for-success/) - Learn the ten conditions that drive success for teaching reading and writing in special education classrooms. Leave with valuable and actionable insights. - [Learning Without Limits: A Guided Overview of Readtopia, ReadtopiaGo & NewsCurrents](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/readtopia-readtopiago-and-newscurrents-demo/) - Learn from curriculum experts about comprehensive literacy instruction that fosters positive outcomes in a live demo of Readtopia, ReadtopiaGo, and News Currents. - [Finding a Voice and Using It: Integrating AAC and Comprehensive Literacy Instruction](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/aac-and-comprehensive-literacy-instruction/) - Two special educators share ways to integrate AAC and comprehensive literacy instruction to help K-12 learners build language, reading, and writing skills. - [The IEP: Creating Clear and Effective Plans](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/iep-creating-clear-and-effective-individualized-educational-plans/) - A three-part IEP webinar series by Michael McCormick with sessions on Crafting Effective Plans, IEP Meeting Strategies and Implementation Success Factors - [Strategies for Providing Literacy Instruction to AAC Users](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/providing-literacy-instruction-to-aac-users/) - Special educator Kelly Fonner shares strategies for providing literacy instruction to AAC users during this free webinar. - [ReadtopiaGO, Comprehensive Emergent Literacy, and the Science of Reading](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/readtopiago-emergent-literacy-science-of-reading/) - Learn how ReadtopiaGO supports comprehensive emergent literacy using routines aligned to the Science of Reading and Science of Learning. - [AAC Literacy Instruction: Boosting Access, Engagement and Independent Learning](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/aac-literacy-instruction/) - Free webinar on AAC literacy instruction featuring research-based strategies and accessible technology to support reading, communication, and independence. - [Evidence-Based Literacy Instruction in Action](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/evidence-based-literacy-instruction/) - Evidence based literacy instruction advocates show how SoR and comprehensive literacy instruction are aligned, with classroom examples for special educators. - [Literacy Instruction with Science of Reading and Readtopia](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/science-of-reading-and-readtopia/) - Dr. Karen Erickson shows how the science of reading and Readtopia align during comprehensive literacy instruction for students with significant disabilities. - [Meaningful Administrative Walkthroughs A School Principal Shares Her Research-Aligned Strategy](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/meaningful-administrative-walkthroughs/) - A school principal shares a process for meaningful administrative walkthroughs that are research-aligned and elevate the provision of special education. - [Letter by Letter: AAC Adventures in Writing](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/letter-by-letter-aac-adventures-in-writing/) - A 45-minute webinar exploring high-tech and low-tech tools that can support AAC adventures in writing using all 26 letters in the alphabet. - [Low-Tech Strategies for Language and Literacy Success](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/low-tech-strategies-for-language-and-literacy-success/) - Explore ways to use robust low-tech strategies for language and literacy success during shared reading, predictable chart writing and alphabet instruction. - [Beyond Belief: Building Teacher Buy-In for Comprehensive Literacy for All](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/building-teacher-buy-in-for-comprehensive-literacy-for-all/) - School leaders building teacher buy-in for comprehensive literacy for all receive strategies for setting the bar high for literacy learning in this webinar. - [Extended School Year Elevated: High-Impact Literacy Instruction for Summer Learning](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/extended-school-year-instruction-webinar/) - Join us for a dynamic webinar designed to equip you with the tools and strategies needed to enhance literacy instruction for your extended school year students! - [Shakespeare for All: Building Literacy Connections with Every Learner](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/shakespeare-for-all-building-literacy-connections-with-every-learner/) - Shakespeare for All will take you on a live, engaging journey teaching you how to grow literacy using background knowledge of well known literature! - [Kick Off the School Year with Confidence: Implementing ReadtopiaGO](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/kick-off-the-school-year-with-confidence-implementing-readtopiago/) - Watch this free webinar on how to kick off the school year running with ReadtopiaGO using strategies to help with lesson planning and classroom set up! - [Comprehensive Literacy Instruction: 7 Key Factors For Success](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/comprehensive-literacy-instruction-7-key-factors-for-success/) - Hear 7 tips for successful comprehensive literacy instruction in special education, including how to optimize a learning environment during this free webinar. - [How to Provide Literacy Instruction for Nonspeaking Students](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/literacy-instruction-for-nonspeaking-students/) - Discover effective strategies and tools special education teachers use to provide literacy instruction for nonspeaking students with Readtopia. - [Integrating Monarch Reader with Readtopia and ReadtopiaGO](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/integrating-monarch-reader-with-readtopia-and-readtopiago/) - Dr. Karen Erickson outlines how to use the free books in Monarch Reader with literacy instruction in Readtopia and ReadtopiaGO. - [Paraprofessionals Supporting Reading Instruction](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/paraprofessionals-supporting-reading-instruction/) - A special education coordinator shares how her school district empowered paraprofessionals supporting reading instruction in this 30-minute on-demand webinar. - [Preparing for Extended School Year Programs](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/preparing-for-esy-programs/) - Kim Burke, M.Ed., provides strategies for creating a successful Extended School Year (ESY) experience for students receiving special education services. - [Unlocking Comprehensive Literacy Instruction](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/unlocking-comprehensive-literacy-instruction/) - A special education teacher and a Speech-Language Pathologist provide an overview of comprehensive literacy instruction and strategies for student engagement. - [Webinar: ReadtopiaGO - The Best Yes!](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/webinar-readtopiago-the-best-yes/) - Make confident, informed decisions on reading and writing instruction for students in Pre-K through Grade Two using ReadtopiaGO following this 45-minute webinar - [AI in Special Education: How to Create your own Chatbot](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/ai-in-special-education-how-to-create-your-own-chatbot/) - Enhance teaching efficiency and impact by learning how to create your own chatbot. A 30-minute webinar showing how and why to use AI in special education. - [Comprehensive Literacy Curriculum that Drives Student Success](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/comprehensive-literacy-curriculum-that-drives-student-success/) - Considerations for special educators choosing a literacy curriculum to address the unique needs of all students vpresented by Lauren Sheehan, M.Ed, ATP. - [Evidence of Impact on a Community of Learners](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/evidence-of-impact-on-a-community-of-learners/) - In this webinar, Dr. Lisa Erwin-Davidson will outline the evidence of impact drawn from a 5-year study of implementing Comprehensive Literacy Instruction. - [Measuring Literacy Learning with Readtopia Assessment Tools](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/measuring-literacy-learning-with-readtopia-assessment-tools/) - A 30-minute webinar with Dr. Karen Erickson outlining how to measure literacy learning using Readtopia assessments for students with complex learning profiles. - [Webinar: A Backstage Pass with ReadtopiaGO Developers](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/webinar-a-backstage-pass-with-readtopiago-developers/) - A 50-minute on-demand webinar with ReadtopiaGO developers who provide insight into the instructional strategies included in this new early-literacy curriculum. - [Quick Writing FUN - Supporting Conventional Learners](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/quick-writing-fun-supporting-conventional-learners/) - Supporting conventional learners during special education writing instruction with the full alphabet and quick writing fun. Ideas via Dr. Caroline Musselwhite. - [You Got This: Supporting the Literacy Needs of Beginners at All Ages](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/you-got-this-supporting-the-literacy-needs-of-beginners-at-all-ages/) - On-Demand Webinar: You Got This! Supporting the Literacy Needs of Emergent Readers of All Ages Request Access to Recorded Webinar Today’s standards dictate that all students, including those that face the most significant barriers, should receive literacy instruction. Yet, providing meaningful, effective instruction can be difficult to implement of a variety reasons, including but not - [Encouraging Interaction with AAC Users During Shared Reading](https://www.buildingwings.com/webinar/encouraging-interaction-and-communication-with-our-aac-users-during-shared-reading/) - Learn how Kelly Key’s unit school district uses the shared reading approach to encourage interaction, and communication with AAC users during shared reading. ## Categories - [Case Studies](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/casestudies/) - [Articles](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/articles/) - [Sticky](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/sticky/) - [Writing Curriculum](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/writing-curriculum/) - Articles related to literacy curriculum solutions for learners of all ages with autism and complex learning profiles. - [Curriculum](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/curriculum/) - Building Wings blog post articles related to reading curriculum for special education and instructional resources. - [Learning Resources](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/learning-resources/) - [Product Updates](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/product-updates/) - [Reading Curriculum](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/reading-curriculum/) - Articles and blog posts for special educators related to special education reading curriculum solutions. - [Readtopia](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/readtopia/) - [Live Webinars](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/live-webinars/) - [On Demand Webinars](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/on-demand-webinars/) - [Recent](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/recent/) - [ReadtopiaGO](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/readtopiago/) - Articles and blog posts on early literacy and literacy curriculum solutions for young learners in Pre-K through Grade 2+. - [Monarch Reader](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/category/monarch-reader/) - Building Wings blog articles related to Monarch Reader and how Tar Heel Reader is joining the Building Wings family under this new name and website. ## Tags - [Reading Curriculum](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/readingcurriculum/) - [Readtopia](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/readtopia/) - [Learning Is For Life](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/learningisforlife/) - [Product Updates](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/productupdates/) - [Curriculum](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/curriculum/) - Use when discussing our Curriculum products like Readtopia, First Author and Start-to-Finish. - [eLearning](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/elearning/) - Use when talking about eLearning or Remote Learning and how it relates to education and our products. - [Universal Design for Learning (UDL)](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/universal-design-for-learning-udl/) - [Dyslexia & Dysgraphia](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/dyslexia-dysgraphia/) - [Assistive Technology](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/assistive-technology/) - [Google for Education](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/google-for-education/) - [Learning Tools](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/learning-tools/) - [Math](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/math/) - [Whitelisting](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/whitelisting/) - [Whitelist Meaning](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/whitelist-meaning/) - [Press Release](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/press-release/) - [Vocabulary](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/vocabulary/) - [Student choice](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/student-choice/) - [student-led learning](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/student-led-learning/) - [ReadtopiaGo](https://www.buildingwings.com/blog/tag/readtopiago/)