Richland 1 outlines early-reading and intervention pilots as part of report-card strategy
Get AI-powered insights, summaries, and transcripts
Subscribe
Summary
At the Dec. 16 work session, district staff announced a second-semester Pre-K Kickstart reading rollout, expansion of Brain Boosters for GT identification, a RISE intensive summer-read intervention pilot in six schools, and Palmetto Math Project participation at select schools.
Columbia, S.C. — Richland 1 staff told the board on Dec. 16 they will expand early-literacy and targeted intervention programs aimed at sustaining recent score gains.
Mr. Yvonne described a new Kickstart reading curriculum for pre-kindergarten that will begin in the spring semester, saying the program focuses on phonological awareness and will be systematically integrated into existing instruction. "Kickstart will start off second semester... the goal is to have a stronger foundation in pre-K," he said.
Staff also highlighted Brain Boosters, a program the district piloted to expand gifted-and-talented identification using CogAT screening. Dr. Hassinger said district identification rose to 8.7% among students tested this year and described monthly teacher sessions and scaffolding materials provided to classroom teachers.
The district reported it piloted the RISE summer-camp intervention at six schools this year; that intensive program helped about 50 students meet the state cut score for SC Ready during the summer pilot. Staff said the district will continue RISE and look to expand based on results.
On math, Richland 1 secured Palmetto Math Project funding for four elementary schools (and five middle schools were also eligible) to provide high-dose tutoring. Staff said state eligibility was determined by the state (tier 3 schools with 50%+ does-not-meet rates) and the district requested and received the full amount it applied for.
The board asked for details on selection criteria and follow-up metrics; staff said they would bring those items back when presenting continuous improvement plans and budget implications.
What happens next: Kickstart launch in second semester, continued Brain Boosters implementation and monthly teacher supports, RISE planning for next summer and reporting on Palmetto Math Project outcomes in future board materials.