K-12 literacy rates in the United States are not as high as those in other first-world countries. Halting the decline of literacy is a national effort but must start locally. This book, designed for parents, teachers, librarians, and other concerned citizens, offers practical guidance and solutions to the problem of illiteracy in the United States.
As the inheritors of both the technological innovations of the information age and the social and economic unrest of the world, the generation now in our schools will, to a great extent, determine whether America stays at the top or falls behind in the world order. It is imperative therefore that our students master the skills essential to our timesbut statistics show that a huge majority of American children struggle with the skill most essential to modern life. Our society is fueled by literacy, and if we do not stand up for these struggling learners now, the consequences for both the individuals and society as a whole will be disastrous. Although literacy rates are a nationwide issue, the solution lies surprisingly close to home: Grassroots teams across the country have already begun the movement to reform education, and their successes have been monumental. All that remains is for the message to spread, the spark to ignite. You can be the next leader of change, voicing a clear and compelling call to action. This book will show you how. Just as learning difficulties are not the fault of the student, ineffective instruction is rarely the fault of the teacher, or even of the school district. The grassroots teams that have brought such comprehensive reforms to their districts have done so by harnessing all the tools available to them in the high-speed, interconnected modern world: in-depth scientific research, far-reaching social media, and direct alliances with influential political champions. The Common Core State Standards already implemented in many states are proof of their success. With a firm commitment to opening opportunities for the next generation, and with the right information to guide you along your journey, you too can make a difference in Americas future.
The Congressional Record is the official record of the proceedings and debates of the United States Congress. It is published daily when Congress is in session. The Congressional Record began publication in 1873. Debates for sessions prior to 1873 are recorded in The Debates and Proceedings in the Congress of the United States (1789-1824), the Register of Debates in Congress (1824-1837), and the Congressional Globe (1833-1873)
While developmental responsiveness is a deservingly key emphasis of middle grades education, this emphasis has often been to the detriment of focusing on the cultural needs of young adolescents. This Handbook volume explores research relating to equity and culturally responsive practices when working with young adolescents. Middle school philosophy largely centers on young adolescents as a collective group. This lack of focus has great implications for young adolescents of marginalized identities including but not limited to those with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ youth, and those living in poverty. If middle level educators claim to advocate for young adolescents, we need to mainstream conversations about supporting all young adolescents of marginalized identities. It empowers researchers, educators, and even young adolescents to critically examine and understand the intersectionality of identities that historically influenced (and continue to affect) young adolescents and why educators might perceive marginalized youth in certain ways. It is for these reasons that researchers, teachers, and other key constituents involved in the education of young adolescents must devote themselves to the critical examination and understanding of the historical and current socio-cultural factors affecting all young adolescents. The chapters in this volume serve as a means to open an intentional and explicit space for providing a critical lens on early adolescence–a lens that understands that both developmental and cultural needs of young adolescents need to be emphasized to create a learning environment that supports every young adolescent learner.
Practical and rich in resources, this book provides a roadmap to monitoring, evaluating, and implementing effective literacy instruction in grades PK-12. Designed for district and school leaders as well as literacy coaches and consultants, this book contains all the strategies, guidance, and tools you’ll need to monitor the effectiveness of literacy instruction in your school or system. Top literacy experts Angela Peery and Tracey Shiel share concise, well-researched information about how to identify enriched literacy environments, what constitutes well-designed literacy lessons, and the components of effective literacy programs at each grade level. Chapters cover reading, writing, speaking and listening, as well as collaboration, technology, and more, and offer adaptable strategies for different environments. Tools such as checklists and conversation frames are included to help busy leaders and administrators effectively monitor literacy instruction and provide constructive, thorough feedback to teachers. Each chapter features: Check-Up Tools to review documents and observe instruction Check-In Tools to guide your conversations and feedback given to teachers Reflective Questions for system and school leaders and instructional coaches.
