Manchester University

Manchester University’s Henney Department of Education has opened a literacy lab run by teacher candidates and a highly trained reading coach, offering reading support to young students in the community. 

In 2023, the Henney Department of Education received a $500,000 grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its initiative, Advancing the Science of Reading in Indiana. A major goal of the project was to develop a reading lab—a space offering teacher candidates with opportunities to work one-on-one and in small groups with preschool and elementary readers. A reading coach for the lab, 2015 MU graduate Tracy Walda, was also hired with funds from the grant.  

Lilly Endowment Inc. launched the Advancing the Science of Reading in Indiana initiative in 2022. It complements a statewide effort undertaken in 2022 by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) to improve reading achievement in K-12 schools by helping current teachers implement Science of Reading-aligned principles in their classrooms. In 2022, the Endowment made a $60 million grant to the IDOE to support that work with school districts and teachers across Indiana. 

Manchester’s literacy lab is located on the second floor of Funderburg Library at the North Manchester campus. The Henney Department of Education is working closely with local schools to identify children in pre-school through sixth grade who will benefit from intervention as well as enrichment. Lab amenities include flexible seating, beanbag chairs, an activity table, books at a variety of reading levels, and an eight-foot wooden tree—home of the lab’s mascot, Oakley the Squirrel. 

A conference room for observation is connected to the instructional area, so that preservice teachers, faculty, and visitors may watch sessions without interrupting the flow. 

“The lab will meet a variety of needs in our community. Teacher candidates, especially those studying to be elementary teachers, will have opportunities to work with young students while receiving training from a highly qualified literacy coach. Eventually, we hope to extend the scope of the lab to older students,” said Heather Schilling, director of clinical experience and professor of education. “Preschoolers, homeschool students, and elementary students will receive enrichment and intervention to support their literacy development. Classroom teachers and other educational professionals will have access to high-quality literacy professional development.” 

An open house and story time will be held this fall during Manchester University’s Homecoming and Family Weekend on Saturday, Oct. 26. 

For the media 

Contact Heather Schilling, director of clinical experience and professor of education, at haschilling@manchester.edu. 

Manchester University, in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., offers vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester. 

Our mission and values 

Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.