#1 in Washington - Shelton School District Achieves National Recognition for Early Literacy Growth
The Shelton School District is proud to announce that it has been nationally recognized as the #1 school district in Washington State for growth in early literacy, as highlighted in the recently released Dynamic Districts Report by Upswing Labs. This prestigious acknowledgment reflects the district's unwavering commitment to enhancing early education and fostering a love of reading among its youngest learners.
Shelton School District has successfully implemented programs aimed at improving literacy outcomes for students through innovative teaching strategies and targeted professional development for educators. The district’s focus on research-based practices has resulted in significant gains in reading proficiency and engagement for all students.
In an era of instructional fads and programs for purchase that promise quick fixes, Shelton’s approach to literacy instruction has been unique in that the district has prioritized common-sense, standards-based instruction and development of a bank of sustaining instructional resources. Under a new strategic plan, implemented in 2022, district leaders partnered with administrators and teacher leaders to develop guidance and resources for the different facets of literacy instruction, including foundational skills such as phonics and phonemic awareness, reading comprehension, writing, vocabulary, and fluency. The Shelton approach to literacy instruction emphasizes the development of reading skills with authentic texts that match students’ interests and developmental levels, rather than one-size-fits-all anthologies or readers.
This national recognition is a testament to the collaborative efforts of teachers, administrators, students, and families.
Engrossed in the pages of her 'just-right' book, a student enjoys the magic of reading in her classroom library. Establishing libraries in each classroom was one of the initiatives of Shelton Success, the Shelton School District's five-year strategic plan. With access to 500-600 books in their classrooms, students are inspired to ignite their love for reading! Photo taken by Cooper Studios.