What's Happening?
Central Elementary School in Portage has seen a dramatic increase in reading scores since the introduction of a literacy coach. The school, which was required by state law to have an instructional coach due
to low IREAD-3 pass rates, has benefited from the efforts of literacy coach Tabitha Henry. Under her guidance, the pass rate for the IREAD-3 test increased from 66.1% to 86.8% in just one year. The Indiana Literacy Cadre aims for a 95% pass rate by 2027, ensuring students can read proficiently by the end of third grade. The success at Central Elementary highlights the effectiveness of hands-on coaching and the importance of early literacy intervention.
Why It's Important?
The improvement in reading scores at Central Elementary underscores the critical role of literacy coaches in early education. By providing targeted support and working closely with teachers, literacy coaches can significantly enhance student learning outcomes. This success story may encourage other schools to adopt similar strategies, potentially leading to widespread improvements in literacy rates across the state. Early literacy is foundational for future academic success, and initiatives like this can help close educational gaps, particularly in underperforming schools. The positive results also highlight the need for continued funding and support for literacy programs to ensure all students have the opportunity to succeed.
What's Next?
Following the success at Central Elementary, literacy coach Tabitha Henry will expand her efforts to include Myers Elementary. The school district plans to have one literacy coach for every two elementary schools, focusing on kindergarten through second grade. This expansion aims to replicate the success seen at Central Elementary and further improve literacy rates across the district. The school board has also approved contracts for infrastructure improvements, including a new roof for Aylesworth Middle School and asbestos abatement at a former IT building. These developments indicate a broader commitment to enhancing educational facilities and resources in the district.
