Editor’s note: This is one in a series of profiles about the men and women who are creating today’s EdTech companies.
By Kenna McHugh
For more than three decades, Reading Horizons has focused on improving literacy by promoting the Reading Horizons Method, a systematic approach to teaching reading. The method combines explicit, rule-based instruction for teachers with individualized software for students, helping learners understand the patterns and rules that govern English. “Too many students fail to learn to read by third grade because they’re not explicitly taught the rules and patterns that govern the English language,” explains CEO Tyson Smith. “Another challenge we solve in the classroom is that students need more individualized instruction than their K–3 teachers have time to provide. Our technology tools allow students to receive instruction that is catered to their individual skill level without requiring more time from their teachers.”
Tyson Smith took the helm at Reading Horizons in October 2001 and has guided steady growth and continual product improvements since then. Under his leadership the company has expanded its reach, working with thousands of educators worldwide to support literacy gains in diverse learning environments. Smith has shared the company’s work at education and technology conferences across North America and internationally, advocating for methods and tools that blend teacher-led instruction with scalable technology.
One memorable experience early in Smith’s career illustrates the program’s real-world impact. He was invited to present at a juvenile detention center in Washington state after administrators heard about the success of a classroom there. The audience included superintendents, assistant superintendents, and legislators. After Smith introduced the program, three teenage students who had learned to read through the Reading Horizons Method spoke to the group.
The students described how literacy had changed their lives. One said he looked forward to reading a menu on a date; another explained that he had progressed from picture books to chapter books and that his cellmate now knew he could read. The final student pulled phonics rules on a sheet of paper from his pocket and proudly shared the work he had done. “Their answers overwhelmed me as they expressed their newfound confidence in their ability to read street signs and job applications,” Smith recalls. “Their improved reading ability resulted in self-confidence and self-esteem that was evident as they spoke. This experience was formative for me as I recognized how impactful literacy was and the influence that it has on self-worth.”
Implementing a new reading program can create short-term challenges for schools and districts. Smith notes that the initial transition requires commitment and effort from teachers and administrators, but once they embrace the approach, implementation becomes smoother. “Teachers are frequently at the tipping point when it comes to the time and energy that is required to implement programs and to fulfill standards,” he says. “We feel that we are in a unique position to help improve literacy for all. We have a proven method for teaching students to read that blends teacher instruction and education with technology tools.”
Reading Horizons emphasizes impact over profit, a focus that guides training, support, and product development. Smith explains that the company’s priority is making a measurable difference in students’ lives. Teachers who train in the method often describe the experience as engaging and practical. The company supports classrooms through an online customer portal that offers ongoing training modules, lesson plans, worksheets, and instructional videos. A customer success team and implementation coaches help schools sustain progress, ensuring that committed schools can upgrade their reading culture effectively.
Smith believes educational technology extends the reach of teachers and reinforces classroom learning for each student. “Even the best teacher can’t reach every student in a class of 15–30,” he says. Well-designed technology gives students the individualized practice they need while freeing teachers to focus on instruction. Investments in research and development, he adds, will make tools even more student-centric. As technology demonstrates its ability to instruct students at their level, teachers will gain greater trust in blended learning models.
Reading Horizons continues to refine its programs to meet classroom realities and student needs, combining explicit phonics instruction with digital resources that support differentiated learning. The company’s work centers on proven techniques, strong teacher training, and practical technology that together promote literacy and confidence for learners of all ages.
About the Author
Kenna McHugh is a staff writer at the Learning Counsel. Her writing credits include work on film, education, and curriculum development. She creates K–12 instructional materials, contributes to education technology projects, and tutors students, helping them develop learning skills that produce lasting, positive effects in their lives.