Early Literacy
Dear MPS Elementary Families,
According to Massachusetts regulation 603 CMR 28.03 (1)(f), all Massachusetts public schools are required to assess each student's reading abilities and early literacy skills at least twice a year for students in K-3. These assessments are brief tests that provide valuable information about your child's early reading abilities.
Medford Public Schools uses the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS), an approved assessment by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, which takes about 3-6 minutes for each student to complete for students in K-3. Students in grades 2 and 3 are assessed using DIBLES and NWEA MAP Growth.
Please note that the purpose of early literacy universal screening assessments is to help identify students who may be at risk for reading difficulties. They are not intended to diagnose any disabilities or make any official determinations. Our teachers are dedicated to monitoring your child's reading progress and use these assessments as one tool to support their development.
If your child's results fall significantly below the benchmark, you will receive a letter from your child's school. As suggested by the state's Early Literacy Screening Guidelines, kindergarten results will be reported in the middle of the school year. For many students, kindergarten is the first school experience. Providing them with additional time gives a more accurate picture of their abilities.
Administering early literacy universal screening is crucial to promoting reading success for every child, and we value our partnership with you. As such, our Literacy Coaches, Kristin Howell and Julie Turowetz, provided two DIBELS presentations for caregivers at the following dates and times:
- Tuesday, 10/22/24, from 6-7 p.m. at the McGlynn School Library
- Friday, 10/25/24, from 9-10 a.m. virtually via Zoom.
If you have any questions, please reach out to either your building principal or us. Thank you.
Warm regards,
Dr. Suzanne Galusi, Assistant Superintendent
Dr. Nicole Chiesa, Director of Humanities