DE Wins Competitive NGA Grant
Sponsors Initiatives for Reading to Achieve
Dover, Del.–February 16, 2006The National Governors Association (NGA) Center for Best Practices has announced a Reading to Achieve Initiative to support the development of state literacy plans and policies to improve adolescent literacy achievement.Delaware is one of eight states that has been awarded a $50,000 grant to fund state adolescent literacy initiatives. Funding for this initiative was provided by the Carnegie Corporation of New York.
Delaware has two goals for the Reading to Achieve Initiative. The first goal is that by 2014, all students who demonstrate special needs, are English Language Learners (ELL)or are from low socioeconomic families will meet or exceed state reading standards. The second goal is to develop a clear vision and strategic plan for addressing adolescent literacythrough the implementation of a statewide literacy plan supported by sustained high quality professional development.
“This initiative will enable Delaware to create a statewide literacy plan,” said Secretary of Education Valerie A. Woodruff.“This plan will be a systemic and comprehensive approach to literacy instruction to educate students with the greatest needs: ELL, special education students, low socioeconomic students,racially and ethnically diverse students, and males.”
“A critical component of a student’s success is a strong foundation in literacy and reading comprehension,” said Governor Ruth Ann Minner.“Literacy is the foundation for a well rounded and productive citizenry and is clearly a skill that is highly valued—in the workplace, in postsecondary education, and for social development.I believe that the Reading to Achieve Initiative will provide critical assistance in helping Delaware take the next step in improving adolescent literacy.”
The statewide literacy plan will support the goals of the Delaware National Governors Association Honors State Grant Blueprint for Action agenda which will prepare graduates to be successfulin postsecondary education or a career that will enable them to be financially independent. The plan will also identify the best strategies and programs for teaching literacy from Pre-K through 12for educators and policymakers. By partnering with businesses, foundations, state agencies, and postsecondary institutions, state literacy data can be shared and public awareness of literacy achievement gapswill be revealed. Together, all partners in the literacy plan can address real-world literacy demands and raise state standards.
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Delaware's Department of Education is committed to promoting the highest quality education
for every Delaware student by providing visionary leadership and superior service.
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Contact Info.
Alison Kepner Delaware Department of Education 401 Federal Street, Suite #2 Dover, Delaware 19901 Phone: (302) 735-4035 Fax: (302) 739-4654 Email: akepner@doe.k12.de.us |
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