Children's Literacy Initiative evaluates Berkeley County Schools' literacy instruction strategies

The Berkeley County Schools Board of Education reconvened on April 17, 2025, to discuss critical findings from a recent literacy instructional review conducted by the Children's Literacy Initiative (CLI). The review, which took place in January, aimed to assess and enhance literacy instruction across the district.

Dr. Diana Green, representing CLI, highlighted the organization's mission to empower educators and improve literacy outcomes for students. During the meeting, she emphasized the importance of high-quality instructional materials and effective teaching practices. The review team visited ten schools, engaging with students and educators to gather insights on current literacy practices.

Key findings from the review indicated that while student engagement was high, there were significant gaps in the implementation of research-based literacy instruction. Many teachers were not utilizing the curriculum materials provided, leading to inconsistencies in student learning experiences. Dr. Green noted that some materials remained unopened on shelves, suggesting a disconnect between available resources and classroom practices.

The review identified three major areas for improvement, termed "big rocks": targeted professional development for educators, effective use of data to drive instruction, and equitable resource allocation across schools. The team stressed the need for ongoing support and training for teachers and school leaders to ensure that literacy instruction aligns with rigorous standards.

Board members expressed concerns about the lack of cohesive vision and direction for literacy instruction within the district. They acknowledged the need for better communication and collaboration between schools and the district office to create a unified approach to literacy education.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgency of addressing the identified gaps in literacy instruction and the importance of fostering a culture of continuous improvement within Berkeley County Schools. The board plans to implement the recommendations from the CLI review to enhance literacy outcomes for all students.