By Lorenzo Licopoli, Ph.D

The Foundation of School Success

There is no doubt that the ability to read is the foundation for all future academic, professional and personal success. Moreover, with all the advances in technology, the ability to read "tech" manuals is needed for just about every occupation. It is for these reasons and more why the debate about reading improvement has been taken up by national, state and local governments --- what are schools to do to ensure our students are literate, competent and skilled readers?

In many respects, the challenge for all students in New York State to achieve a Regents diploma focuses on all students being skilled and motivated readers and learners. So what are we doing to develop a comprehensive, thoughtful and balanced reading program for all students in Mineola? Well, for one thing, we are already doing many of the things that are consistent with research regarding the best practices that influence reading achievement. Presently, we are working very hard to ensure that all of our schools are aligned, K-12, in English Language Arts. How do we do that --- by implementing a continuous improvement plan for curriculum, instruction and assessment in English Language Arts. The result of that plan should help align our program and ensure the following:

1. The environment for reading is rich with literary experiences and resources to shape reading development. Reading is practiced in the context of meaning and writing is used to reinforce ideas about what you read.

2. All children are given direct instruction in developing phonetic awareness and the practical application of phonics in the context of connected, engaged text --- such as nonfiction and fiction stories. The learning of letters and sounds and how to combine them to form new words are critical for early reading success.

3. Teachers provide direct and indirect instruction to help children develop the essential skills and strategies they need and those reading skills needed in the content areas.

4. Quality reading programs differentiate reading instruction for all readers and are designed to provide early intervention for children who experience difficulty in reading.

Because our schools and teachers use a variety of techniques tailored to the individual needs of students, the continuous improvement of our reading and writing program already has an excellent foundation! In closing, I have a few ideas to share with parents regarding reading at home.

* Try to see that your elementary children spend 15 - 20 minutes each day reading at home, with older children spending additional time. Stress reading time and selection of material that they really enjoy and can read independently.

* Ask your child's teacher what concepts you can reinforce at home. What are the ways you can support your child's progress?

* Volunteer at your child's school --- be a "reader listener" by listening to children read aloud.

* Attend our Nov. 20 Parent University Program on the ELA Program, 7 p.m. in the Library at Mineola High School.

In advance, my best wishes are extended to the Mineola Community as we approach the Thanksgiving holiday.