West Virginia
West Virginia 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 West Virginia College- and Career-Readiness Standards, which outlines the skills and knowledge that students need to develop in order to be successful readers, including phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
West Virginia 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 West Virginia Center for Professional Development to provide guidance and support to educators and promote evidence-based literacy practices.
​
West Virginia uses a statewide assessment, the West Virginia General Summative Assessment (WVGSA), 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 West Virginia Department of Education also partners with local organizations and agencies to promote literacy development through initiatives such as the West Virginia Reading First program and the West Virginia Reading Council. These programs aim to support literacy development among students and families, particularly those in low-income communities. Additionally, the state has established the West Virginia Birth to Three program, which focuses on promoting early literacy development among young children in the state.
.
West Virginia Student Score Gaps:
-
This represents a decline from the 2019 percentage of 4th grade students not reading at the proficient level which was 70%.
-
In 2022, Black students had an average score that was not significantly different from that of White students.
-
Data was not reported for Hispanic students in 2022, because reporting standards were not met.
-
In 2022, male students in West Virginia 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 24 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.
WV EVIDENCE-BASED CHAMPIONS
WV 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.
West Virginia Department of Education
​
West Virginia Council of Teachers of English
​
West Virginia Reading Association
​
​