Evergreen School Board Hosts Information Evening Focused on Early Reading Instruction and Intervention
Evergreen School Board Hosts Information Evening Focused on Early
Reading Instruction and Intervention – June 2024
Evergreen School Division recently illuminated the Riverton Curling Club with an Info Evening about how the school division is enhancing early reading instruction and intervention. Held on the evening of May 29th, this event brought together school trustees, educators, and community members from across the division to share information about vital aspects of reading instruction among young learners.
All 7 of Evergreen’s trustees were present, including Chair Dianna Auer, Vice-Chair Colette Banks, Sandra Davies, Penny Helgason, Gladys Kohler, Amanda Mosher, and Jillian Yorga. The evening began with a warm welcome from Auer, emphasizing the board's commitment to strengthening relationships with citizens across the division. Auer highlighted the shared passion and responsibility among attendees for supporting their respective communities, recognizing each as a role model and person of influence.
Superintendent Scott Hill then provided an overview of Evergreen's 2023-2028 Education Plan, identifying the pivotal role of early literacy development in shaping students' academic and social journeys.
A notable highlight was the panel discussion featuring experts such as learning coordinator Jessica Worden, literacy consultant Della Magnusson, speech language pathologist Britney Morrish, and Riverton Early Middle School's resource teacher, Jessica Vandersteen. Their insights underscored the importance of early literacy initiatives in Evergreen’s schools.
Attendees heard from divisional staff, focusing on the challenges and opportunities surrounding early reading instruction and intervention. Topics ranged from effective teaching methods to strategies for identifying and supporting students facing reading difficulties.
Jessica Worden expressed enthusiasm for the commitment to equipping students with foundational literacy skills: "This is a real social justice issue. We need to attend to it with a sense of urgency."
The event comes on the heels of Evergreen School Division's recent recognition with an award of excellence from Dyslexia Canada for their approach to reading instruction, affirming the dedication to supporting students with diverse learning needs.
As the evening concluded, participants voiced their support and appreciation for divisional efforts to enhance early reading instruction and intervention. Superintendent Hill emphasized the importance of empowering students through effective early reading instruction, stating, "Teaching children to read is the most important thing we do. It benefits students throughout their school years, for sure, but more importantly, it enables them to fully participate in community and in the democratic conversation."
Additionally, the Evergreen Board of Trustees hosted a similar event with representatives of Municipal Councils in November, 2023, and intends to host two similar events next school year, furthering their dedication to community engagement and collaboration.
