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Missouri

Missouri 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 Missouri Learning Standards for English Language Arts, 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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Missouri provides training and support for educators in evidence-based literacy practices, such as guided reading instruction, explicit instruction in foundational skills, and the use of data to inform instruction. The state has established the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's Office of College and Career Readiness to provide guidance and support to educators and promote evidence-based literacy practices.

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Missouri uses a statewide assessment, the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP), to monitor student progress in reading and identify areas where additional support is needed. The state's Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) 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 Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education also partners with local organizations and agencies to promote literacy development through initiatives such as the Missouri Early Literacy Initiative and the Missouri Reading Success Project. These programs aim to support literacy development among students and families, particularly those in low-income communities. Additionally, the state has established the Missouri Early Learning Standards, which focuses on promoting early literacy development among young children in the state.

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Missouri 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 66%.

  • In 2022, Black students had an average score that was 34 points lower than that of White students. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (33 points).

  • In 2022, Hispanic students had an average score that was 10 points lower than that of White students. Data was not reported for Hispanic students in 1998, because reporting standards were not met.

  • In 2022, male students in Missouri had an average score that was not significantly different from that of female students.

  • In 2022, students who were eligible for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) had an average score that was 30 points lower than that for students who were not eligible. This performance gap was wider than that in 1998 (22 points).


Information from the  NAEP website for 2022 4th grade reading scores.

MO EVIDENCE-BASED CHAMPIONS

MO 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.

Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

https://dese.mo.gov/

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Missouri Literacy Association

https://mla31.wildapricot.org

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Missouri Association of Teachers Of English

https://missourienglishteachers.com

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International Dyslexia Association - Kansas-Missouri Branch

https://ksmo.dyslexiaida.org

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