The Empowering Readers team at High School of Fashion Industries recently visited literacy classrooms at Midwood High School for a collaborative intervisitation focused on strengthening literacy instruction for all students. During the visit, HSFI educators observed dynamic classroom practices that centered student talk, purposeful reading routines, and intentional questioning. Teachers engaged in thoughtful dialogue with their Midwood colleagues, sharing best practices around scaffolding complex texts, building background knowledge, and creating classroom environments where students feel confident taking academic risks.
The experience was both affirming and inspiring, reinforcing the belief that strong literacy instruction is rooted in collaboration and shared learning. The Empowering Readers team returned to HSFI with concrete strategies they plan to adapt and implement, including structured discussion protocols, clearer learning targets for reading, and routines that promote accountability and belonging. This visit highlighted the power of professional learning across schools and underscored HSFI’s ongoing commitment to developing literacy for all learners through reflective practice and continuous growth.