This paper provides an overview of the Exemplary Center for Reading Instruction (ECRI), a research-based instructional program designed to improve students' ability to read, understand, and communicate in English. The program focuses on pre- and inservice professional development for teachers who are trained in a highly structured, teacher-directed approach to instruction, with a focus on establishing high levels of student mastery, maintaining on-task behavior, and providing ample time for hands-on work and practice. ECRI is now used in hundreds of schools across the country. Teachers learn to teach word recognition skills, vocabulary, comprehension, study skills, spelling, penmanship, proofing, creative and expository writing, and literature. Sections of the paper discuss background, philosophy and goals, program components, evidence of effectiveness, professional development and support, implementation, costs, considerations, contact information, and policy issues and questions. (SR)