The Oregon City School District is making significant strides in early literacy, thanks to a $500,000 annual grant aimed at enhancing reading skills among K-3 students. During the December 9, 2024, regular session meeting, Candice Hagen, the district's K-12 literacy specialist, provided an in-depth overview of the grant's impact and ongoing initiatives.
In her presentation, Hagen highlighted the grant's focus on five key areas: high-dose tutoring, extended learning, professional development, curricula, and at-home reading resources. The program is designed to ensure that students are proficient readers by the end of third grade, a critical milestone linked to future academic success. "Literacy is a health determinant," Hagen emphasized, underscoring the long-term benefits of reading skills.
One of the standout components of the grant is the high-dose tutoring program, which pairs students with community tutors in small groups for intensive sessions. Currently implemented at Gaffney Lane and Redland schools, this initiative serves approximately 25 students at each site. Hagen noted the unique aspect of employing local tutors, including parents, which fosters community involvement and consistency in tutoring sessions.
The district is also utilizing innovative tools like Amira, an AI-based reading intervention program that provides immediate feedback to students, helping them improve their reading fluency. Additionally, a new supplemental curriculum from the University of Florida, focused on foundational literacy skills, has been introduced, with training provided to over 70 staff members.
Looking ahead, Hagen expressed optimism about the program's future, mentioning plans to expand high-dose tutoring based on data-driven results and the potential for further community partnerships to enhance at-home reading initiatives. The district is committed to continuous improvement in literacy education, with a focus on ensuring that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed.