FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2001
The results of student assessment measures released this week indicate that a summer reading pilot program by the district is preventing low-income students from falling behind in their reading skills. Testing data showed students at all grade levels surpassed their spring reading levels when they started school this fall.
One of the greatest challenges faced by teachers is the loss of reading skills over the summer by low-income students. The Summer Reading Academy, a six-week district pilot program last year focused on low-income students. Those students' reading abilities improved from spring to the end of the summer program and maintained some gain by fall, to a varying degree.
The program featured a half-day of reading instruction, combined with an afternoon recreational program provided by Madison School-Community Recreation for 266 K-2 students at three sites - Franklin and Midvale Elementary Schools and the MMSD Learning Center at Allied Drive. Classes were capped at 10 students to ensure intensive one-on-one opportunities for the young readers.
Researchers have found that summer reading loss accounts for the gap in overall reading achievement between poor and middle class students.
Survey data from teachers and parents indicated strong support for the Summer Reading Academy. Of the 108 parents that responded to the survey, 100 percent said due to the program their child was somewhat or much better prepared for reading in school this fall. Additionally, 97 percent of parents said they would recommend the Academy to other parents and that they would enroll their child next summer.
Teachers said the program generated student confidence and enthusiasm for reading and that the small class size and length of the reading block were positive attributes contributing to student success.
"We're extremely encouraged by the initial success of this program," Superintendent Art Rainwater said. "One of the district's goals is to ensure that every child leaving third grade is reading at grade level. We think the Summer Reading Academy is one of the keys to accomplishing that goal."
Upon hearing the test results Monday, the Board of Education's Performance and Achievement committee unanimously approved continuing the program this summer.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Asst. Supt. Rita Applebaum, 261-9210 or,
Joe Quick, 267-3030
Public Information Office
545 W. Dayton St.
Madison, WI 53703
608-266-6270
email: newsrelease@madison.k12.wi.us
Last Modified: 2001-01-25
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