Secondary Literacy Instruction Intervention Guide, 2007
The Secondary Literacy Instruction Intervention Guide speaks to the critical need for a clear, coherent and replicable district-level model incorporating evidence-based and research-validated literacy resources to meet the differentiated needs of struggling adolescents. These tools and guide are designed around the context of the University of Kansas’ Content Literacy Continuum (CLC) model.
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Supporting Secondary Literacy Reform in a Low-Resource Context: The Pasadena Story, December 2006Pasadena Unified School District has engaged in systematic literacy reforms in a challenging setting: secondary schools within a low-resource district. Over the past few years, the district has seen solid, consistent growth in secondary academic achievement. This report examines the district’s process for utilizing external resources, leveraging state instructional supports and contracting with a high-quality vendor to help implement the initiative. The report also outlines specific strategies employed system-wide, including data-driven diagnosis of students' instructional needs, tiered interventions, common planning time and a cross-site Secondary Literacy Team.
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Aligning an Instructional System to Close the Gap: Illinois School District U-46, November 2006
In recent years, Illinois School District U-46 has made strong achievement gains, particularly with English Learners (EL). How has a large urban district helped more children achieve? They’ve developed and supported a comprehensive aligned instructional system that teachers are excited about and actively using. This report provides a story of change, highlighting essential elements of the district's progress: the components of a comprehensive aligned instructional system — the Curriculum Roadmap; strategies for collaborative development and phased roll-out; and the supports and tools provided for full implementation; changes to central office structures, roles and practices that promoted alignment, credibility, equitable resourcing and momentum behind change; and leadership from the superintendent, school board and the union that fostered a focus on academic success for all.
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