School District Reviews Early Literacy Assessments for Kindergarten to Third Grade

In a recent Board of Education Workshop in Missouri, officials focused on the growth and achievement of early learners, specifically those in kindergarten through third grade. The meeting highlighted the importance of monitoring foundational literacy development through various assessments throughout the academic year.

The workshop introduced the FastBridge assessments, which are set to be replaced by a new reading assessment called I Ready. This transition marks a significant change in how literacy is evaluated for young students. The assessments are administered three times a year—fall, winter, and spring—with the goal of identifying students at low risk for reading difficulties, and ideally, those who are advanced.

During the meeting, results from the FastBridge early reading assessment for kindergarten and first grade were presented, showcasing performance data from both fall and spring assessments. This data is crucial for educators to understand the progress of their students and to tailor instruction accordingly.

The discussions underscored the district's commitment to enhancing literacy outcomes for its youngest learners. As the transition to I Ready approaches, educators and administrators will need to ensure that the new assessment effectively supports the ongoing development of foundational reading skills.

Overall, the workshop served as a platform for evaluating current practices and preparing for future improvements in early literacy education. The Board's focus on these assessments reflects a broader commitment to fostering academic success from the earliest stages of education.