District proposes limited Amira Learning pilot for early-grade reading support

Whitehall-Coplay School District staff told the Education Student Activities Committee on Jan. 13 that they are proposing a limited pilot of Amira Learning, a computer-based reading program, as a targeted intervention for early readers.

Staff said the proposal calls for one second-grade class at Steckel Elementary to pilot the platform and a small group of tier 2/3 students at Gockley; together the pilot would include about 35 students or fewer. The district described Amira as a short-session, AI-supported program (three 10-minute sessions per week, up to 15 minutes total) that adapts instruction to individual students and provides assessments to guide instruction.

Presenters said Amira aligns with the district's current K–5 ELA curriculum review and the science of reading approach. The program uses end-point benchmarking and individualized activities; students read to the program on district devices (Chromebooks or iPads), and the software offers decoding, fluency and comprehension supports. Staff stressed the pilot would not replace classroom teachers or specialists but could be an additional intervention layer during morning time or other short windows.

Staff noted Amira supports multiple languages and that the district would closely monitor implementation, collect data and seek feedback from the classroom teacher (Mrs. Hood, who volunteered to pilot the program) and from the district reading specialists. The district said it will report back results and any barriers identified during the pilot; no procurement or contract was approved at the committee meeting.