The curriculum we use for literacy instruction is the Sonday System, which concentrates on phonics and spelling, using multisensory methods. We also use SIPPS (Systematic Instruction in Phonological Awareness, Phonics, and Sight Words) which targets more reading and comprehension strategies. We complete 30-minute interventions that are given three to four times per week. 

Student progress is tracked via the Fountas & Pinnell (F&P) benchmark assessment system, which tracks reading growth. The benefit of measuring incremental growth is that it provides a more accurate picture of the students’ needs and progress, and it provides students with incremental benchmarks that give them a sense of accomplishment and literacy confidence—encouraging further growth.

Our additional services strengthen relationships and engagement. Students have a consistent and safe (in-person or virtual) space where the focus is on building trust, so students feel confident to make mistakes and learn from them. Instructors also host additional literacy events, including a Free Youth Book Distribution Event, at which over 1,100 books were distributed, and Puppies and Parks during where our youth participants read to puppies. These events are effective community builders that enhance trust and create vital connections and engagement for the communities we serve.