This fully asynchronous course explores ways that songs can be used to explicitly teach and expose young students to foundational literacy skills that will help build strong readers. Participants will work at their own pace on Canvas to review ideas and resources for using and creating songs to teach concepts in the Science of Reading, such as phonemic awareness, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension, and will also explore using technology, including AI and Google Slides, to develop their own playlist and song to use with students. The course is designed by Martha Thornburgh, a veteran teacher who is currently teaching Transition To Kindergarten in the Mount Vernon School District. In her career, she has taught Pre-K through 6th grade in addition to Professional Development courses for current and pre-service teachers. Completion of the course offers an opportunity to purchase 5 clock hours in STEM. NWESD 189 is a state approved clock hour provider and clock hours can be used for certificate renewal in Washington State. 

Deadline:  Participants must complete this session in Canvas by July 15, 2027. Course attendance is taken on an on-going basis after participants finish, often within 3-5 days, though during rush periods and holiday breaks please be aware it may take up to 2 weeks. Please note that course grading will not take place December 20, 2026 - January 1, 2027 due to winter break. Thank you in advance for your patience.