Educators hope new approach will foster culture of reading
My hope for the coming school year is that districts across Oklahoma will implement the Science of Reading curriculum and remove ineffective curriculum such as the three-cueing system.
Our district has spent time learning about the Science of Reading. It is an evidence-based approach that emphasizes phonics, phonological awareness, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension. We know that the curriculum we have used before is outdated, not backed by research and not giving us the outcomes we desire.
According to the Oklahoma State Department of Education, only 24% of Oklahoma students performed at or above the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) proficient level in 2022. That means three of every four Oklahoma students are not receiving the education they need to succeed.
After much research, our district will be implementing a new program with intense training and professional development to change the trajectory of our school. By implementing the Science of Reading schoolwide, our educators can significantly improve literacy outcomes for all students. These outcomes include early identification and intervention, increased excitement for reading, and more family engagement.
Early identification of reading difficulties and prompt intervention for struggling students is incredibly important to our school. Regular assessments and data analysis enable educators to identify students at risk of falling behind. Early interventions can prevent long-term reading difficulties and improve overall literacy achievement.
We hope to foster a culture of reading with our new approach. Encouraging students to read books that interest them and providing a diverse range of reading materials can boost motivation and develop a lifelong love of reading. We hope that by giving them the confidence to read, it will in turn foster that love for reading that we desire to see as educators.
To ensure the success of the Science of Reading schoolwide, family engagement will play a pivotal role. Workshops and meetings for families will empower families to become actively involved in their children’s education and have the tools to support their reading development at home. Parents who want to learn more about the Science of Reading and the literacy crisis in America should start by listening to the “Sold A Story” podcast by journalist Emily Hanford. Another great resource is the “Right to Read” film by executive producer Levar Burton. Contact the Payne Education Center to learn more about a screening of the film in Oklahoma City.
There are 8.4 million U.S. adults considered functionally illiterate, according to the U.S. Department of Education. That’s one in five. We have to implement changes now so the next generation of Americans won’t continue to face this literacy crisis. In order to do that, we need to educate everyone on what’s happening and why. That includes parents, members of the community and our teachers. Our colleges and universities must teach our teachers how to use the Science of Reading and give them the skills to fully implement it in schools across our state.
As we look ahead to the year of implementing the Science of Reading in our school, we are filled with excitement for the impact it will have on our students’ lives. We believe this new, transformative approach will not only improve literacy outcomes but also foster a love for reading, critical thinking and creativity in our students. We know we are laying the foundation for a brighter future, where every student can reach their full potential and make meaningful contributions to the world.
Lana Ingram is elementary principal at John Rex Charter School.