Early Literacy Should Be a Top Priority for Every District
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Reading at grade-level by 3rd grade is the foundation of success in school, careers, and life. Most California districts aren't making the grade - 58% of 3rd graders are below grade level, including 75% of low-income students of color.
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Literacy Can't Wait!
Why is early literacy so critical?
70% of prison inmates cannot read above a 4th grade level.
How does your district compare?
See where your District stands with student reading achievement.
See where you rank - overall and by county. Even in top-ranked districts, over half of low-income students are below grade level.
See your individual school performance. "Red dots" mean schools with serious reading deficiencies.
What Can You Do About It?
Here are some fundamental steps District Leaders can take to move the needle on Early Literacy.
Want more ideas or to talk about yours? Contact us at info@CAReads.org
Educate Your Team on Early Literacy
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Emily Hanford's blockbuster reports on reading instruction for American Public Media
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EdSource's year-long series on California's Reading Dilemma
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Education Week's 2019 series on Getting Reading Right
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NY Times coverage of the "Mississippi Reading Miracle:" In Mississippi, a Broad Effort to Improve Literacy Is Yielding Results
Board Review of Reading Program & Results
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​​​Some examples:​
Board Resolution & Goals for Student Achievement
Boards set the district's priorities. Make early literacy your top priority and set goals for the Superintendent and team to achieve.
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Model early literacy board resolution and goals
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Check out these literacy plan examples:​​