However, as schools nationwide face challenges in state and national assessments, a long-term solution is clear: investing in robust district reading programs. By prioritizing literacy, we empower students with the tools they need to excel academically and in life.
Scholastic Reading Association (SRA) was first published in 1957 to individualize reading programs for each child. Reading to comprehend and synthesize information helps an individual be content-rich.
It Starts With Improving Reading Skills in Schools
Improve reading, and all students grow!
To improve a Lexile Reading Level, focus on selecting books that match your current Lexile measure, actively engage with the text by asking questions, summarizing key points, building vocabulary, practicing reading regularly, and gradually increasing the difficulty level of your reading materials as your skills develop. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Key steps to improve Lexile reading: [1, 2, 3]
Find “just right” books: [1, 2, 3]
Use a Lexile chart or online tool to locate books with a Lexile level slightly above your current level to challenge yourself while remaining engaged. [1, 2, 3]
Consult a teacher/librarian for recommendations based on your Lexile measure. [1, 3, 6]
Active reading strategies: [2, 5]
Questioning:
Ask yourself about the text before, during, and after reading to deepen comprehension. [2, 5]
Summarizing:
Retell the main points of each section in your own words to solidify your understanding. [2, 5]
Visualizing:
Create mental images of the scenes and characters described in the text. [1, 5]
Identify unfamiliar words in the text and look up their definitions. [2, 5]
Use context clues to infer the meaning of words based on the surrounding sentences. [5]
Practice using new vocabulary in your writing and conversation. [5]
Regular reading practice: [2, 4]
Set aside dedicated time each day to read. [2, 4]
Read a variety of genres to broaden your knowledge and interests. [2, 4, 5]
Gradual progression: [1, 2, 3]
Once you feel comfortable with a certain Lexile level, gradually increase the difficulty by selecting books with slightly higher Lexile measures. [1, 2, 3]
Seek support when needed: [1, 3, 6]
Ask your teacher/tutor if you struggle with a particular text. [1, 3, 6]
Utilize reading strategies like rereading difficult passages/ using a dictionary to aid comprehension. [2, 5]
Points to remember: [1, 3, 5]
- Lexile is a measure, not a goal: While improving your Lexile score is important, the primary focus should be developing strong reading comprehension skills. [1, 3, 5]
- Enjoyment is key: Choose books that you find interesting and engaging to stay motivated. [2, 4]
- Practice makes perfect:
- The more you read, the better your reading skills will become. [3, 4, 5]
School Improvement Plans
At this time of year, public school board members (the trustees) should begin to compile the results of the school improvement plans. For example:
- Illinois State Board of Education shared steps to develop a comprehensive school improvement plan/ CONTINUOUS SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT – STATEWIDE SYSTEM OF SUPPORT.
- Missouri School Boards are engaged in the legislative priorities.
- Iowa School Board Resources
Contract help for Ed Schoenfelt; he will not disappoint you. His price is based on PROJECT, not hourly.
Investing in reading programs isn’t just about improving test scores; it’s about laying the foundation for lifelong learning and success. Public school board members play a vital role in creating the conditions that make these improvements possible. Whether through strategic school improvement plans, fostering collaboration with educators, or advocating for legislative support, their efforts pave the way for meaningful progress. By emphasizing active reading strategies, engaging with Lexile-level resources, and providing students with tools to build their vocabulary and comprehension, we can collectively improve reading skills in schools and ensure brighter futures for all students.
Additional Resources:
- [1] https://www.splashlearn.com/blog/how-lexile-framework-can-strengthen-kids-reading-abilities/
- [2] https://lexile.com/educators/tools-to-support-reading-at-school/strategies-support-readers-level/
- [3] https://metametricsinc.com/parents-and-students/lexile-for-parents-and-students/lexile-for-reading/
- [4] https://www.scholastic.com/parents/books-and-reading/raise-a-reader-blog/increase-reading-level-teacher-tips.html
- [5] https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/reading-comprehension-improvement-strategies
- [6] https://support.hmhco.com/s/article/A-Student-has-Received-a-Very-Low-Lexile-Score-on-Their-Latest-Reading-Inventory-Test-in-SAM