Solution Tree, a provider of K–12 professional development resources and services for educators, announced it has acquired literacy company Dirigo Literacy in a move aimed at improving literacy outcomes for students through evidence-based professional development for educators. The acquisition strengthens Solution Tree’s position as a provider of comprehensive literacy solutions for schools, districts, and state education systems.
Dirigo Literacy was founded in 2024 by literacy expert Dr. Molly Ness, a former classroom teacher, teacher educator, reading researcher, and board member of the World Literacy Foundation. The company focuses on supporting teachers, administrators, and policymakers through literacy reform initiatives, implementation of high-quality instructional materials, and data-driven decision making.
Central to Dirigo Literacy’s work is the Dirigo Literacy Framework, known as the Upward Spiral of Literacy. The framework integrates student skill development with classroom, school, and district-level practices designed to promote sustained improvements in reading and writing. The approach emphasizes building literacy-rich environments, aligning instruction with the science of reading, and scaling evidence-based practices across school systems.
Through the acquisition, Solution Tree plans to expand literacy offerings aligned with the Dirigo Literacy Framework. The expanded portfolio will include K–12 professional development services, literacy-focused events, books, and other thought leadership resources designed to support educators implementing evidence-based literacy practices.
The combined effort brings together Solution Tree’s nearly three decades of collaborative professional learning experience with Dirigo Literacy’s research-driven expertise. The organizations aim to provide schools and districts with research-based strategies and systemwide support intended to improve student learning outcomes and foster stronger literacy development.
Founded in 1998, Solution Tree works with educators globally to improve student achievement. The company hosts professional development events attended by more than 60,000 educators annually and facilitates more than 12,000 professional development days in schools each year. Its catalog includes more than 600 education titles, as well as a range of videos and online courses. Solution Tree also operates online learning platforms designed to support collaboration and professional growth among educators.
KEY QUOTES:
“We are thrilled to welcome Molly Ness and Dirigo Literacy to the Solution Tree family. This acquisition allows us to deliver an unparalleled, research-based literacy solution that combines innovative coaching, systemwide support, and professional learning aligned with evidence-based literacy practices. The newly designed Dirigo Literacy Framework has the potential to positively reshape school and district literacy practices, ensuring more students are not only reading and writing well but also with joy and purpose. This aligns with our vision at Solution Tree of transforming education worldwide to ensure learning for all.”
Cameron Rains, CEO Of Solution Tree
“When we build children’s literacy skills, we increase the likelihood of academic, career, and lifetime success. Literacy is an issue of social justice; this moment in our nation’s literacy landscape affords a unique opportunity—with so many conversations about reading and writing. Partnering with Solution Tree enables us to empower more teachers and school leaders with evidence-based literacy instruction.”
Dr. Molly Ness, Founder Of Dirigo Literacy
