At the RCS Elementary Schools, we provide quality reading instruction to students that include the foundational skills and strategies needed to meet the NYS Learning Standards. Through a balanced literacy approach students are encouraged to develop an appreciation of reading that will last throughout their lives. This approach supports the development of students’ oral language and communication skills through reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing.

We believe that effective reading instruction at RCS should:

• Be based in educational research and best practice

• Actively engage students in deeply thinking about text

• Allow students to apply skills in real-world experiences

• Consider students’ developmental stages, diverse experiences, and individual motivation

• Be multi-dimensional; incorporating the “5 Pillars of Reading” (Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Vocabulary, and Comprehension)

What does a Balanced Literacy Classroom look like at RCS?

• A combination of whole class, small group, and individualized instruction

• A framework for teacher-directed instruction and independent learning

• A purposeful connection to writing and language and other content areas; such as Science and Social Studies

• Activities which promote a variety of instructional practices that encourage metacognition (thinking about our learning) and independent learning.

• Assessments are utilized to inform instruction and to monitor student progress

We believe that reading is more effective through school-to-home and school-to-community partnerships. We encourage parents, guardians, and community members to promote the love of reading. Being part of a larger community of readers encourages a passion for learning that opens doors of opportunity and leads to a lifetime of success.