(The Center Square) – Ohio plans to funnel $60 million in federal taxpayer money to schools aligning instruction with the Science of Reading in hopes of improving literacy.
The money is part of Gov. Mike DeWine’s Read Ohio initiative, which the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce is pushing throughout the state as a way to raise literacy achievement.
It is also expected to help schools align instruction with the Science of Reading, another effort DeWine has pushed.
“As all of our schools in Ohio become fully aligned with the Science of Reading, it is critical that our teachers have the right training and resources to properly teach their students how to read using this groundbreaking method,” DeWine said. “This funding will further advance our efforts to make Ohio a model state, both in terms of how we support teachers with the training and tools they need to raise literacy achievement, and how we provide our students with the skills they need to be successful throughout life.”
Elementary, middle and high schools – as well as district preschools and early childhood education programs – will soon be able to apply to become a “comprehensive literacy implementation site and receive grant funds.
At those sites, the money will be used to strengthen how teachers and administrators implement literacy programs. It could include coaching for teachers and principals on how to effectively bring the Science of Reading into their classrooms, more training on best practices for the use of high-quality instructional materials that teach the Science of Reading, or partnering with a local library or colleges to promote the value of literacy to families.
“By establishing more of our schools as comprehensive literacy implementation sites and providing another layer of support directly to our teachers, the better positioned educators and staff will be to successfully guide students in developing crucial literacy skills,” said DEW Director Stephen Dackin. “This program will also help us understand where additional supports are needed and how to make those critical learning connections.”
