Florida
Florida 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 Florida Standards, which outlines 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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Florida 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 Florida Center for Reading Research to provide guidance and support to educators and promote evidence-based literacy practices.
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Florida uses a statewide assessment, the Florida Standards Assessments (FSA), 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.
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The Florida Department of Education also partners with local organizations and agencies to promote literacy development through initiatives such as the Just Read, Florida! program and the Florida Reading Corps. These programs aim to support literacy development among students and families, particularly those in low-income communities. Additionally, the state has established the Florida Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Education Program, which focuses on promoting early literacy development among young children in the state.
Florida Student Score Gaps:
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This represents no significant change from the state’s 2019 average score.
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In 2022, Black students had an average score that was 28 points lower than that of White students. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (31 points).
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In 2022, Hispanic students had an average score that was 12 points lower than that of White students. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (20 points).
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In 2022, male students in Florida had an average score that was lower than that of female students by 7 points.
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In 2022, students who were eligible for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) had an average score that was 23 points lower than that for students who were not eligible. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (29 points).
Information from the NAEP website for 2022 4th grade reading scores.
FL EVIDENCE-BASED CHAMPIONS
FL 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.
Florida Department of Education
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Florida Literacy Association
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Florida Literacy Coalition
The International Dyslexia Association - Florida Branch