PR: Literacy and Numeracy Practices

Assistant Superintendent Carra Aschenmeier recently shared an information report identifying the specific programs and practices engaged by teachers not only for literacy but numeracy as well at the January Public Board Meeting. In January, kindergarten learners were assessed with the Reading Readiness Screening Tool, and Grade 1 students were screened as per Alberta Education's
mandatory literacy and numeracy screens. The student learning data collected through the screening process alerts teachers to students who will need additional support - including small group or individual plans - to catch students early.

Student data is essential information for teachers, informing their instructional design and activities. The data gathered at the beginning of the school year, a semester, a unit, or a topic in a subject area provides teachers with a baseline from which to identify gaps in student understanding or necessary skills. The data they gather after instruction has occurred provides feedback on the effectiveness
of instructional choices. The data and action cycle informs each school's improvement plan; annually, all the schools' data is aggregated and analyzed to inform the Division's Education Plan.

The Board also heard from École Mountain View Elementary School Principal Kurt Scobie who explained his school's approach to literacy instruction, highlighting the scientific, research-based practice teachers use to ensure students have the foundational skills they need to successfully read and comprehend the
various texts they encounter across subject areas.