INSTRUCTION 6142.2(a)

Reading/Language Arts

Reading and language skills are integral parts of all phases of the learning process. Each student, therefore, must learn to speak, read, write, listen to, and think with words in order to function effectively in school and society. Since it is primarily with words that ideas and thoughts are communicated, it is imperative that students develop competency in the reading and language arts areas for self-fulfillment, effective communication, creative expression, and ultimately for productivity in society. Each student must be provided with an educational program that meets the student's learning needs. The program will emphasize the differentiation of instruction, flexible grouping, and a multi-modality approach.

Recognizing the importance of establishing the appropriate foundation during the primary grades and its statutory requirements, the Board of Education adopted on May 24, 1999 and has implemented a three year plan to improve the reading skills of students in grades K through 3 inclusive. The goal of this plan is to have all students attain the state's reading competency standard.

The plan includes:

1. The specific instructional methods, strategies, and activities that will be used to teach reading;
2. Ways to assess and help students in danger of not learning to read by the end of first grade;
3. Periodic evaluations of students' reading levels;
4. More time for instructing students who do not progress or who read below grade level;
5. Professional development for elementary school teachers in how to teach reading and language arts;
6. Ways to involve parents in addressing their children's reading problems;
7. Ongoing data collection and monitoring of program effectiveness; and
8. A school and public library partnership to improve pre-reading and reading skills.

Adopted: October 22, 2001

References:
Connecticut General Statutes 10-220a In-service training. Professional development
10-221h Plan to improve reading skills
10-265g Summer reading programs required for priority school districts. Evaluation of student reading level. Personal reading plans.
Public Act 99-288 An Act Concerning Education Accountability
Manchester Board of Education Policy 5120 Promotion/Retention/Acceleration