Delaware
Delaware has implemented several literacy policies aimed at improving reading proficiency among its students. The state's approach to literacy education focuses on evidence-based instruction, early intervention, and support for struggling readers. One key policy is the Delaware English Language Arts Standards, which outline the skills and knowledge that students need to develop in order to be successful readers, including phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
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Delaware provides training and support for educators in evidence-based literacy practices, such as explicit instruction and the use of assessment data to inform instruction. The state has established the Delaware Literacy Institute to provide guidance and support to educators and promote evidence-based literacy practices.
Delaware uses a statewide assessment, the Delaware Comprehensive Assessment System (DCAS), to monitor student progress in reading and identify areas where additional support is needed. The state's Response to Intervention (RTI) framework provides a systematic approach to identifying and supporting struggling readers, with tiered levels of intervention based on student needs.
The Delaware Department of Education also partners with local organizations and agencies to promote literacy development through initiatives such as the Delaware Readiness Teams and the Delaware Literacy Campaign. These programs aim to support literacy development among students and families, particularly those in low-income communities. Additionally, the state has established the Delaware Early Childhood Council, which focuses on promoting early literacy development among young children in the state.
Delaware Student Score Gaps:
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This represents a decline from the 2019 percentage of 4th grade students not reading at the proficient level which was 67%.
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In 2022, Black students had an average score that was 26 points lower than that for White students. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (30 points).
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In 2022, Hispanic students had an average score that was 23 points lower than that for White students. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (42 points).
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In 2022, male students in Delaware had an average score that was lower than that for female students by 8 points.
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In 2022, students who were eligible for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) had an average score that was 25 points lower than that for students who were not eligible. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (30 points).
Information from the NAEP website for 2022 4th grade reading scores.
DE EVIDENCE-BASED CHAMPIONS
DE EVIDENCE-BASED ORGANIZATIONS
These organizations are committed to promoting evidence-based reading practices, providing professional development opportunities for educators, and supporting students in developing strong reading skills.
Delaware Department of Education
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Delaware Valley Literacy Association
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Decoding Dyslexia Delaware
https://www.facebook.com/decodingdyslexiaDE/
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