Northampton County Schools Partners with Reading Horizons for Enhanced Literacy
Northampton County Schools has made a significant move by partnering with Reading Horizons, known for its effective literacy programs. This collaboration is set to enrich reading instruction in two elementary schools, boosting the learning experiences of students across 19 K-2 classrooms.
Aiming for Student Success
This initiative reflects the district's dedication to creating a supportive academic environment. By introducing a research-based foundational reading program, Northampton County Schools intends to improve essential reading skills among young learners. This effort aligns seamlessly with the county’s strategic plan, which focuses on increasing the percentage of students achieving reading proficiency by the end of third grade.
Overview of Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite
The Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite is well-respected for its success in teaching foundational reading skills. Built on more than four decades of research, it merges direct instruction with engaging, age-appropriate software specifically designed for young learners. The program has shown great results in a variety of educational contexts, aiding whole classrooms, intervention efforts, special education, dyslexia, and multilingual students.
New Leadership and Vision
With the recent leadership transition under Dr. Rosa Atkins, the new superintendent, Northampton County Schools is pursuing programs based on the science of reading. They aimed to find a literacy program that would provide clear and thorough support for both teachers and students.
Lakecia Brown, the K-12 Director of Curriculum Instruction, underscored the importance of a structured program. "We needed a curriculum that offered a clear scope and sequence to assist our teachers in delivering effective phonics instruction, whether in whole class settings or small groups," she remarked. "Reading Horizons delivers the structured support that our teachers, especially those who are new or alternatively certified, need. It fills a vital gap for us."
Comprehensive Reading Instruction Strategy
To ensure a balanced approach to reading education, Northampton isn't just implementing Reading Horizons. They are also introducing a language comprehension curriculum that emphasizes vocabulary and understanding, covering all key aspects of effective reading instruction.
Building Student Confidence
Leadership in Northampton County is confident that enhancing reading proficiency through Reading Horizons will also foster greater confidence among students in various subjects, including science and math. Their commitment to literacy is part of their mission to collaborate with families and local communities, empowering students to become responsible and engaged citizens.
Sean Lindsey, the Director of Education Solutions at Reading Horizons, commended the district’s dedication to quality education. "Northampton County’s commitment to excellence was clear from the very beginning. They engaged multiple stakeholders, including instructional coaches and teachers, to ensure the program aligned with the district’s needs. This collaborative spirit truly impressed me and highlighted their determination to make the right choice with Reading Horizons,” he said.
Learn More About Reading Horizons
To find out more about Reading Horizons and their dedication to literacy, you can visit their website. With a proven approach that's continually adapting with the latest advancements in reading science, Reading Horizons has been a trusted partner for educators and students for 40 years, ensuring young learners achieve reading proficiency.
About Reading Horizons
Reading Horizons equips educators with innovative, technology-enhanced tools to combat illiteracy through effective foundational reading instruction. Over the years, their instructional strategies have been tailored to reflect the latest developments in reading science, assisting both educators and students on their literacy journeys.
About Northampton County Schools
Northampton County Schools is committed to working with families and communities to empower students toward responsible citizenship. Their vision includes creating safe, effective learning environments that encourage strong, competitive learners, aiming to elevate educational outcomes for all students.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of Northampton County Schools' new initiative?
The goal is to improve reading instruction and increase the percentage of students who are proficient in reading by the end of third grade.
What is Reading Horizons?
Reading Horizons is a leading provider of foundational literacy programs, offering effective methods for teaching reading skills to young children.
Who is involved in the decision-making process for selecting Reading Horizons?
Multiple stakeholders, including instructional coaches and teachers, were involved to ensure the program meets the district's specific needs.
How does Reading Horizons aid educators?
Reading Horizons provides structured support and a clear scope and sequence for delivering effective phonics instruction, which helps both novice and experienced teachers.
What does this collaboration mean for students?
This partnership is expected to boost reading proficiency and foster confidence, positively influencing students' performance across all subjects.
