Reading First

Overview

Reading First provides assistance to school districts and schools with high student poverty levels and low reading levels to implement K-3 reading programs designed to ensure "every student can read at grade level or above not later than the end of grade 3," reducing the achievement gap between disadvantaged students and their peers.

Program Elements

Reading First in Wisconsin requires

• instruction in the five essential elements of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension
• core reading programs be based on scientifically based reading research (SBRR)
• schools to administer screening, diagnostic, and classroom-based assessments to all K-3 students
• 120 minutes - 90 uninterrupted minutes - of reading instruction daily
• 36 hours of reading-related professional development annually for all staff involved in K-3 reading instruction

For questions about this information, contact Greg M. Doyle (608) 267-1066

Last updated on 7/17/2008 9:14:27 AM