STARI FAQs

Can my school/district get an in-person STARI training?

At the present time, we have limited capacity to offer in-person training led by SERP staff. If in-person training is the best fit for your school/district, we strongly encourage you to consider the locally facilitated model described below. 


STARI training options include:


Asynchronous virtual professional learning

This is online, self-paced STARI training. This consists of 17 sessions, totaling approximately 20 hours of content, to be completed over the course of the school year. Content is delivered through a combination of video and hands-on activities. Over 500 teachers have engaged in this professional learning to date. Cost: $375 per person, with volume discounts available, $45 per person printed training binder (optional)


In person, locally facilitated professional learning

We offer a comprehensive facilitator guide that allows someone who is not familiar with STARI to lead professional learning, using our videos and online resources. Cost: $3000 for a one-year license for unlimited use for non-commercial purposes, $45 per person printed training binder (optional) 


Live virtual, SERP-facilitated professional learning

We offer live virtual professional learning, divided over three six-hour days (with breaks included). Registered participants are provided with a Zoom link to attend, and digital handouts are provided. Sessions include content delivered by video, and interactive activities using Slido and breakout rooms.


We sometimes offer open to the public live virtual training sessions, typically scheduled in the summer, at a cost of $375 per person. This cost also includes access to the asynchronous professional learning. We can also offer customized live virtual professional learning for interested schools/districts. This allows you to select your own dates, as well as include tailored content (e.g., how to access materials, feedback forms, etc). Cost: $3500 per day ($10,500 total) for a maximum of 100 participants per day


Questions about additional formats of STARI professional learning? Please contact info@serpinstitute.org

Related FAQs

Do I have to do the STARI training to teach STARI?

By hlepska • October 1, 2025
You are not required to purchase STARI professional learning with the purchase of materials. However, we strongly recommend that everyone who teaches STARI should complete the STARI professional learning series. STARI is a teacher-led intervention, which relies on the teacher’s skill in leading discussions, and implementing specific routines for each component of the curriculum. Teachers who have completed the STARI training tend to be much more effective and confident STARI teachers.

Is specific STARI training available?

By hlepska • September 30, 2025
SERP offers online professional development opportunities . Licenses cost $375/person (discounted rates available for groups). You may generate a quote for STARI curriculum materials, literature and professional learning by submitting a STARI Bundle Order request .

How long is the STARI training?

By hlepska • September 29, 2025
We estimate that the STARI Professional Learning Series will take approximately 20 hours, with about 8 hours intended for completion before implementing STARI (Sessions 1-6) and the rest spread across the year (1-2 hours/month). There is likely to be quite a bit of variability depending on how quickly you move through the content, how many of the optional activities are done or skipped, and whether any of the sessions are done collaboratively. If completed collaboratively with a facilitator, we recommend two 6-hour days of training before the first day of school, followed by monthly 2-hour PLC meetings during the school year. For more information see Professional Learning Series .

What type of background/training do STARI teachers need? Do I need to be a reading specialist to teach STARI?

By hlepska • September 28, 2025
STARI has been taught successfully by all types of teachers. The training is suitable for all teachers, regardless of teaching background.

What is a facilitator license?

By hlepska • September 26, 2025
Some teacher teams may prefer an in-person, collaborative professional learning experience, led by a local facilitator. A facilitator license provides access to a facilitator version of the online series to project to a group of participants, in order to lead collaborative sessions in person for non-commercial purposes. No prior knowledge of STARI is required for the facilitator. One printed facilitator guide is included with a facilitator license. Cost: $675/license. Purchase of 6 or more teacher licenses is also required.

What is a coach license?

By hlepska • September 25, 2025
The STARI Coach Course add-on provides access to our full self-paced STARI teacher course plus exclusive coaching content, the Coaching Corner embedded at the end of each session. Each Coaching Corner includes targeted videos, activities, and resources designed to support coaching of STARI.  Cost: $575/license For those who support classroom implementation of STARI as a coach, and also facilitate STARI professional learning sessions, we offer the Coach-Facilitator license, with access to both sets of content. Cost: $875/license. Purchase of 6 or more teacher licenses is also required.