After years of seeing people struggling to read information, understand content and create clear messages for their audiences, we created the PlainLanguageAcademy.com to help. We also designed it on plain language principles: easy to understand, efficient to navigate and effective to turn into actions. We love how our students participate, interact and give us feedback.
Our mission

We strive to keep our courses simple and satisfying.
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We endorse these practices:
  • Put the reader first to strengthen connections.
  • Clarify the purpose to ensure expectations are met.
  • Actively listen to audiences and stakeholders to gain deeper understanding of their needs.
  • Follow guidelines and practices supported by research and experience.
  • Practice empathy, compassion, and respect for clients and readers.
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Meet Kate Harrison Whiteside, Academy owner and facilitator
I am so passionate about plain language. It is the answer to connecting to others. It makes your communications stand out and it leads to client-services excellence.

‪I started out as a writer and editor, using my journalism skills in government, business, and organizational communications. With my entrepreneurial experience came many new opportunities, like offering training, specializing in plain language, and developing online content. It has all come together in the Plain Language Academy.
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Meet Flora Gordon
Course 4: Plain Language Design facilitator

​I am professionally certified as a graphic designer (CGD) by the Graphic Designers of Canada association. My bachelor’s degree in Communication Design is from Emily Carr University of Art + Design, and I have over ten years of professional experience as a designer. I am passionate about accessible visual communications and enjoy projects where I can work with other communications professionals. 
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Meet Cheryl Stephens, 
Content Developer and Legal Editing Facilitator

I came to plain language in 1989 when I was trying to rationalize and make consistent the template documents of a mid-sized law firm.

I could see then that plain language is a best practice for any communicator. Since then I have been sharing, practicing, and contributing to the development of plain language.