Reading First Evaluation 

CCLD has conducted a statewide evaluation of Reading First in Kentucky since 2004. Reading First is a major federal initiative within the new reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act:  No Child Left Behind. This initiative emphasizes the following practices for teachers of primary grades (K-3) to facilitate gains in student reading achievement:

  • Ongoing Professional development in scientifically based reading research (SBRR)
  • Use of reading programs based on SBRR
  • Explicit and systematic reading instruction based on the five essential components of reading instruction (Phonemic awareness, Phonics, Vocabulary, Fluency, and Comprehension)
  • Using student assessment data to plan instruction
  • Planning to meet individual students' instructional needs

Lead Researcher: Paige Carney, University of Charleston

Summaries of Findings from the Reading First Evaluation

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009