STATEMENT: Legislature Got it Wrong by not Funding Coaching Program
We look forward to digging into the budget that was passed by the Maryland Legislature today to learn how our state leaders chose to invest in education and the funding decisions they made – specifically related to programs that support reading. However, we are aware that the coaching program advocated for by Dr. Wright and the State Board of Education was not funded. We are aware that difficult decisions had to be made but, in this instance, the Legislature got it wrong.
Schools provide a wide range of important supports to students, many of which extend beyond academics. However, a primary way schools are judged on their effectiveness in educating students is by looking at reading and math proficiency rates. Dr. Wright learned through her experience in Mississippi that coaching was a critical factor in translating the training that teachers received into impact in the classroom, and the research (Balta, et al, 2023) supports her conclusion.
The positive outcomes at both the teacher and student level support the implementation and expansion of job-embedded coaching programs across schools. In addition, research (Darling-Hammond, 2003) consistently shows that teachers–particularly new teachers–who benefit from instructional coaching are more likely to remain with their schools.
We will continue to advocate and push for coaching opportunities throughout this year. Our teachers deserve better and by investing in coaching we can leverage all of the investments Maryland is making to end our reading crisis.
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About Maryland READS
Maryland READS is a non-profit organization that was founded to end the reading crisis in Maryland. Based on the most current rigorous research and evidence of impact, Maryland READS focuses on three proven paths to closing the literacy gap: improving reading instruction in the classroom through the Science of Reading;\advancing thriving community-based reading ecosystems outside the classroom; and addressing barriers that prevent students from becoming proficient readers like addictive technology. Through collaboration and strategic partnerships, Maryland READS is building a powerful statewide network to provide community leaders with a place to engage, share best practices, advocate and shape their action plans to ensure all children have the reading skills necessary for success in school and beyond. Learn more about our growing reading network a https://marylandreads.org/
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