Empowering Young Minds: Effective Literacy Program for Middle and High School Students
When students reach middle or high school, their attention spans are short, screens are ubiquitous, and reading often takes a backseat to other responsibilities. However, reading is truly the cornerstone of academic success, and students who struggle with literacy early on can face significant challenges throughout their education and beyond.
As a secondary interventionist and curriculum specialist at Clay County District Schools in Green Cove Springs, FL, I have witnessed firsthand the consequences of early literacy struggles. Focused on students in grades 7-12, my mission has been to help struggling readers become proficient and achieve a three or better on the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST), freeing them from intensive reading coursework.
Utilizing technology as a powerful tool, I have implemented the Lexia LETRS program, a structured literacy training course based on the science of reading. This program equips teachers with the knowledge and tools necessary to support students in developing essential reading skills. Through this course, I gained valuable insights into the complex nature of reading, such as Scarborough’s Rope and the simple view of reading, as well as the importance of connecting different areas of the brain through explicit and sequential reading instruction.
To create a successful literacy program for middle and high school students, I have implemented four key steps:
Creating a Safe Learning Environment: It is crucial for students to feel safe, welcomed, and engaged in the learning process. By providing snacks, drinks, and utilizing the Lexia PowerUp literacy platform, students can feel comfortable and supported in their educational journey.
Emphasizing Progress: Recognizing and celebrating student achievements is essential for boosting confidence and motivation. By publicly acknowledging students’ accomplishments on whiteboards and highlighting their progress, students are encouraged to continue their efforts.
Getting Teachers On Board: Professional learning sessions and training opportunities for teachers are essential in ensuring that educators understand and support the literacy initiatives at the secondary level. By fostering a collaborative and informed teaching environment, the impact on student success can be maximized.
Leveraging Data for Individualized Instruction: Utilizing data from the literacy platform allows teachers to tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of each student. By conducting data chats and setting goals based on individual progress, teachers can effectively guide students towards improved reading proficiency.
By implementing these strategies, our school has seen significant improvements in literacy rates, with approximately 60% of students now proficient in reading. These positive outcomes extend beyond academic success, as improved reading skills have led to enhanced performance in other subjects and overall behavioral improvements among students.
The rewards of a successful literacy program are not limited to test scores and classroom achievements. Former students have returned to share their successes, such as passing classes, pursuing higher education, and achieving career aspirations. Witnessing the tangible impact of improved literacy skills on students’ lives is truly gratifying and reinforces the importance of investing in effective literacy programs.
In conclusion, empowering young minds through proven literacy programs is essential for ensuring academic success and future opportunities for students in middle and high school. By creating supportive learning environments, emphasizing progress, engaging teachers, and leveraging data for personalized instruction, schools can make a lasting impact on students’ literacy skills and overall educational outcomes. As we continue to prioritize literacy initiatives, the benefits will extend far beyond the classroom, shaping the future success of our students.
For more news and resources on literacy, visit eSN’s Innovative Teaching hub.
Author:
Michelle Sado, Clay County District Schools