Over the summer, the faculty prepared for the implementation of the schoolwide program,  Success for All, which we will continue in its second year as part of the Solidarity Schools initiative. In February, Ms. Battle and Ms. Mahar attended a 3 day-long conference to learn more strategies and implementation. In August, all teachers attended a week-long training that focused on preparing for the successful implementation of the program's instructional and social-emotional learning components. Teachers also received training for the new Math Program- Illustrative Math.

Here is a brief description of what you will see in instruction:

• TK and Kindergarten have comprehensive programs that embed literacy across all subject areas. 
• The First Grade program consists of a daily 90-minute block that provides a solid foundation of literacy skills through systematic phonics instruction and targets the needs of beginning readers.
• The Second through Fifth Grade programs consist of daily 90-minute instructional blocks that target the needs of students as they further develop their reading skills. 
• In Sixth through Eighth grade, the focus will be meeting the needs of students through a differentiated support block. With an emphasis on both reading and math, this support block includes opportunities to close learning gaps, receive additional practice with grade-level content, and/or accelerate learning.

Basic Structure of SFA Reading Program for 1st through 5th grade

Core reading instruction will occur daily during a 90-minute block to allow for effective, differentiated grouping, as well as to create a shared culture that emphasizes the importance of reading. During the daily 90-minute block, each student will learn in a group that addresses his/her specific instructional level for reading.  Student progress and reading group levels are reviewed at least once each grading period, at which time students are regrouped appropriately. Because students learn at different rates, they are not “locked” into one reading level group for the entire school year.  Therefore, each student is simultaneously supported and challenged throughout his/her literacy journey.

Differentiated Support Block for 1st through 8th grade 

Students in first through eighth grade will have an opportunity to use adaptive programs and the Success For All Tutoring program (as applicable) to practice targeted skills at his/her level. This will occur during a designated time during the school day. 

Ongoing Professional Development

Our staff will receive ongoing support during the implementation of the program from both Success for All Coaches, as well as from the Department of Catholic Schools.