Iowa Department of Education

Purpose
Reading First is designed to accelerate the reading achievement of students in kindergarten through 3rd grade in low performing/high poverty schools so that all students are reading at grade level by the end of third grade.

Description
Iowa's Reading First effort is designed to improve the early reading achievement of children in kindergarten through 3rd grade by providing reading instruction that:

• is based on the findings of scientific research in beginning reading;
• addresses the five essential components of reading which includes phonemic awareness, explicit and systematic phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension;
• applies the findings of SBRR by identifying specific instructional strategies and models, programs and materials that have been proven effective in improving reading performance of children in kindergarten through 3rd grade;
• includes early intervention for children who are struggling in learning to read and for children with special needs; and,
• informs the evaluation, selection, and implementation of instructional strategies and models, programs and materials, and the development of professional development.

Overview & Impact
 Iowa's Reading First Program: Overview & Impact (2008-03-10)

Participating Districts
 2006-09 Reading First Awards (2006-02-07)

Evaluation Plan
 Reading First Evaluation Plan (2008-02-08)

Results To Date
 2005-06 Iowa Reading First Final Report (2008-02-08)
 2004-05 Iowa Reading First Final Report (2008-02-08)

Contact
Carlene Lodermeier, Consultant
515-281-8423
carlene.lodermeier@iowa.gov