Iowa
Iowa 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 Iowa Core English Language Arts 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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Iowa provides training and support for educators in evidence-based literacy practices, such as balanced literacy instruction and the use of formative assessments to guide instruction. The state has established the Iowa Department of Education's Literacy Team to provide guidance and support to educators and promote evidence-based literacy practices.
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Iowa uses a statewide assessment, the Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress (ISASP), 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 Iowa Department of Education also partners with local organizations and agencies to promote literacy development through initiatives such as the Iowa Reading Research Center and the Iowa Early Literacy Implementation Project. These programs aim to support literacy development among students and families, particularly those in low-income communities. Additionally, the state has established the Iowa Early Learning Standards, which focuses on promoting early literacy development among young children in the state.
Iowa 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 30 points lower than that for 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 21 points lower than that for White students. Data are not reported for Hispanic students in 1998, because reporting standards were not met.
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In 2022, male students in Iowa had an average score that was not significantly different from that for female students.
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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 (21 points).
Information from the NAEP website for 2022 4th grade reading scores.
IA EVIDENCE-BASED CHAMPIONS
IA 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.
Iowa Department of Education
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Iowa Reading Association
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Iowa Council of Teachers of English
The International Dyslexia Association - Iowa Branch