The Point | CenterPoint Education Solutions

Improving the Quality of Early Literacy Instruction in Brooklyn Schools and Beyond

Written by Allison Maudlin | Aug 20, 2019 12:00:00 PM

CenterPoint Education Solutions has announced a new early literacy initiative, funded by the Robin Hood Learning + Technology Fund, in partnership with District 19 in Brooklyn, New York and Learning Forward.

CenterPoint and its partners will work across 19 schools as they make a transition from a traditional, paper-based, whole-group instructional model to a blended learning model. This transition will be paired with implementation of the high-quality Wit & Wisdom curriculum from Great Minds, which received perfect scores on the EdReports gateway analysis of text quality, building knowledge, and usability. This two-year project will include development of early learning strategies and tools, along with on-site and virtual coaching and working sessions with school leaders and district staff.

“We are excited to partner with District 19 to advance student achievement. As a former English teacher, I am especially pleased with the focus on implementing a strong early literacy program in District 19 – and establishing a model that can be used across the country,” says Laura Slover, CEO of CenterPoint. “Many schools and districts across the country are adopting a high-quality curriculum to advance achievement and ensure equity. CenterPoint helps ensure a smooth, transition and prepare administrators and educators for successful implementation.”

District 19 in East New York Brooklyn, New York has a diverse student population which includes 16% homeless students and 13.2% English Language Learners. Since 2016 the district has seen improvements in student achievement and social emotional learning under Dr. Thomas McBryde Jr.’s leadership. CenterPoint will work closely with district leadership to develop professional learning plans, curriculum implementation playbooks, and educator toolkits. These new tools will be designed to be scaled to support early literacy programs across the country.

For more information about this project contact Margaret Horn at mhorn@cpeducation.org or visit www.centerpointeducation.org.