District reports steady gains in early literacy; aims for 80% by third grade

District staff told the board on June 22 that elementary reading scores show measurable gains and the district is working to reach an 80% grade‑level reading goal by third grade.

Trevor presented the reading report and described a color‑coded display that tracks student progress from kindergarten through third grade. "So we're shooting for 80%... and we're at 74% already," he said, noting the district expects to reach the goal with continued coaching and intervention work. Staff are developing a student tracking form to capture beginning, middle and end‑of‑year reading indicators and help report to the state.

Board members discussed factors that influence reading readiness, including classroom attendance, parental engagement and early‑childhood supports such as the Waterford program. A board member noted Waterford participation rose from 66 children in FY25 to 137 this year after a district push to expand access. The district said individual reading plans and targeted interventions will be incorporated into school practice and reported back to the board in the fall.