Curriculum Associates Fuels Literacy Growth with City Year

Curriculum Associates Enhances Literacy through Partnership

City Year's student success coaches utilize Curriculum Associates' Magnetic Reading™ program to support students in their literacy journey. With the start of a new school year, Curriculum Associates is excited to continue its impactful partnership with City Year. This collaboration, aimed at improving reading proficiency among students, follows a successful first year.

Continuing Support for Urban Schools

In the previous academic year, around 300 students in Grades 3 to 5 received focused literacy support from dedicated AmeriCorps members, acting as student success coaches (SSCs). These coaches employed Curriculum Associates' high-dosage reading program, Magnetic Reading, to foster better literacy skills. As the new school year unfolds, approximately the same number of students will again benefit from this exceptional educational guidance.

Goals for the New Academic Year

This year, the coaching team will comprise over 20 coaches, collaborating with students in partner schools across three major urban districts. The commitment to improving literacy outcomes remains strong as City Year and Curriculum Associates work to not only meet last year’s achievements but to exceed them.

Achievements and Feedback from the Previous Year

Feedback from last year’s initiative highlighted significant improvements in coach effectiveness and student progress:

• 80 percent of AmeriCorps members reported a notable increase in their confidence and ability to assist students in developing literacy skills.
• Ninety percent of City Year staff credited Magnetic Reading for the boosted confidence of AmeriCorps members.
• 88 percent of AmeriCorps members observed tangible growth in student literacy during Magnetic Reading sessions.
• A remarkable 95 percent of staff affirmed the program's benefits for their site operations.

Empowering Student Confidence and Literacy

Elizabeth Bassford, vice president of content and implementation at Curriculum Associates, emphasized the importance of fostering confidence among young readers. She remarked, "Every student has the potential to become a lifelong reader, but many continue to struggle with grade-level reading. Our partnership with City Year aims to provide the necessary support for AmeriCorps members to inspire joy and confidence in aspiring readers. The success we experienced last year speaks volumes, and we look forward to building on that this year."

City Year's Mission and Impact

City Year is renowned for its innovative, youth-driven approach to educational equity. The organization focuses on closing the opportunity gap by providing resources and support in under-resourced schools. AmeriCorps members work closely with teachers to create an environment rich in academic and social-emotional growth, making public education more equitable and engaging.

Training and Tools for Success

According to Stephanie Wu, City Year's chief transformation officer, the collaboration has transformed the effectiveness of their tutors. She stated, "Every student can succeed with adequate attention and tailored instruction. The training and materials provided through our partnership with Curriculum Associates have equipped our AmeriCorps members to engage more effectively with students."

Innovative Program Features

Magnetic Reading adheres to Universal Design for Learning guidelines, ensuring accessibility and engagement for all students. This program offers multiple scaffolds, including pre-teaching resources, embedded supports, and formative assessment tools. Additionally, it provides strategic resources tailored for English Learners to ensure inclusive educational practices.

Beyond the students benefiting from the program, all participating SSCs received extensive training and continuous support from Curriculum Associates, ensuring they are well-prepared to implement Magnetic Reading effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the partnership between Curriculum Associates and City Year?

The partnership aims to improve literacy outcomes for students through high-dosage tutoring using the Magnetic Reading program.

How many students are expected to benefit this year?

Approximately 300 students will receive support from City Year AmeriCorps members this academic year, similar to last year.

What is the Magnetic Reading program?

Magnetic Reading is a research-based literacy program designed to engage students with high-quality, grade-level texts while providing necessary supports and resources.

How has the feedback been from coaches and staff?

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with high percentages of coaches reporting increased confidence and effectiveness in assisting students.

What training do AmeriCorps members receive?

AmeriCorps members undergo comprehensive training and receive ongoing support to successfully implement the Magnetic Reading program.

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