Achievement Network guides Lawrence schools on literacy improvement strategies

Lawrence Public Schools is taking significant steps to enhance literacy education across its district, following a recent visit from the Achievement Network, funded by the Schusterman Foundation. This initiative, which involved six schools, aimed to evaluate the literacy experience of students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, focusing on coherence and equity in educational practices.

During the March 12, 2025, LAE Board Meeting, key findings from the visit were shared, highlighting the need for a unified vision of excellent teaching and learning across all schools. The district's literacy team emphasized the importance of aligning individual school vision statements with a broader district-wide understanding of effective education. This coherence is crucial for ensuring that all students receive a consistent and high-quality literacy experience.

Another significant takeaway was the necessity to strengthen teacher practices through curriculum-focused professional development. With nearly all classrooms utilizing high-quality instructional materials, the district aims to engage educators in discussions about how these resources can best meet the needs of their students.

The report also underscored the importance of supporting multilingual learners and implementing culturally responsive teaching practices. Given the district's diverse population, these strategies are essential for fostering an inclusive learning environment.

Finally, the Achievement Network suggested improving collaboration among the district's numerous partnerships to streamline support for educators. By aligning these partnerships with the district's instructional vision, Lawrence Public Schools hopes to reduce redundancy and enhance the overall effectiveness of its educational initiatives.

As the district moves forward, these insights will play a pivotal role in shaping its literacy programs and ensuring that all students have equitable access to quality education.