Starting the Conversation: Questions School Boards Can Ask Their District Leadership About Reading

The document emphasizes the importance of aligning reading instruction with the Science of Reading (SOR) and outlines essential elements for effective implementation:

1. Teacher training in SOR-aligned instructional practices.
2. Support for teachers in implementing learned practices.
3. Provision of high-quality instructional materials aligned with evidence-based practices.

Lessons from Mississippi underscore the need for hands-on support and aligned materials to improve proficiency rates. The document provides questions to guide conversations with district leadership and staff, covering areas such as educator training, curriculum alignment, assessment practices, interventions for struggling readers, and resource allocation. It encourages districts to ensure that resources and practices effectively support SOR-aligned reading instruction to enhance student outcomes.