November 2009
Building on the success of Every 1 Reads
JCPS, Louisville Metro, Greater Louisville Inc., over sixty community organizations, and thousands of volunteers are building on the success of the Every 1 Reads initiative by supporting Every 1 Reads More.
The original initiative was notable for its ambitious, districtwide goals; the second phase is no different. For example, one of our primary goals is to help all students develop their writing skills as well as their reading abilities. Specifically, we will work to ensure not only that students read and write on grade level but also that at least 75 percent of our students read at the Proficient or Distinguished level and that at least 65 percent write at the Proficient or Distinguished level.
We have put in place several strategic components to ensure that Every 1 Reads More will be at least as successful as the original initiative. For example, we are focusing on literacy in the Early Childhood Program for 3- and 4-year-olds. At all grade levels, curriculum materials and resources are being revised and updated to support implementation of the most effective research-based literacy instruction. Professional development sessions are providing training in the best instructional methods. In the classroom, teachers are focusing not only on basic literacy but also on enhancing comprehension skills. Students are learning how to think deeply and more critically about what they read.
JCPS also has been developing an integrated curriculum that supports the use of reading and writing skills as tools to learn social studies and science content. We will continue to offer the high school Ramp Up Program for ninth- and tenth-grade readers who require additional reading support, and we will continue to use student assessments not only to track student progress but also to guide instructional practices.
In addition, Every 1 Reads More will include a health and fitness component to address health issues that adversely impact student learning. JCPS is seeking funding through the initiative to hire additional school nurses who will implement programs that lead to increased attendance and achievement, including increases in literacy skills.
JCPS also will continue its unique and critical partnership with the community. We will maintain 4,000 volunteer tutors and mentors on a yearly basis for one-on-one support for students who are not reading on grade level, and we will increase the number of community-based organizations that provide after-school programming endorsed by Every 1 Reads More. Greater Louisville Inc. and the Jefferson County Public Education Foundation (JCPEF) are committed to raising $6 million for the new initiative.
By revising, enhancing, and adding new components to the original effort, Every 1 Reads More is strengthening our literacy system and preparing students to achieve at high levels. The expanded initiative will help students develop reading and writing skills as a foundation for success in all other academic subjects and, ultimately, for success in life. This is an important initiative and one that you as a parent can be involved in. Spend time reading with your child and encouraging him or her to read on a regular basis. The initiative also offers an opportunity for you to participate as a tutor or mentor. All it takes is 30 minutes a week, and we provide you with the training necessary to be successful in helping a young person develop reading skills. If you want to volunteer, call 625-0004. Join us in moving all Jefferson County children to higher levels of academic achievement and life success.
Sincerely,
Superintendent Sheldon H. Berman, Ed.D.
