Morrell Park Elementary/Middle School Literacy Coach Brittany Schreib is using data-driven strategies to boost student literacy. Last year, 26 percent of students were proficient in literacy on the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) assessments, showing that they met the required reading and writing skills for their grade level. Not satisfied with this fact, Schreib implemented some improvements, and the school has raised the goal to 31 percent proficient this year by targeting students who were close to meeting the benchmark.
“We knew those students could reach proficiency with a little extra support.” Schreib said.
To help, she implemented small-group interventions twice a week, focusing on progress tracking and practice tests.
In addition, Schreib introduced a reward system that incentivizes positive academic behavior, attendance, and self-management, with stickers and treats for students who excel. She also taught students how to create graphic organizers for the MCAP test, ensuring they were well-prepared.
Students who scored proficient were rewarded with a field trip to Wonderfly Arena in Baltimore. Schreib hopes this becomes a tradition.
Schreib is also focusing on reading fluency with Scarborough’s Reading Rope model, which emphasizes word recognition and language comprehension. By breaking fluency practice into five-minute daily sessions, Schreib has seen improved student confidence and stamina.
“Students are seeing the benefits.” Schreib said.
Her efforts are paying off beyond the classroom, too. Schreib recently met the mother of a former student who had struggled with reading but is now an avid reader.
“What we’re doing is working.” Schreib said.
Fun Facts
What was your favorite book to read as a child? The Doorbell Rang by Pat Hutchins
Where is your favorite place to read? My couch
If you could describe reading in one word, what would it be? Fun
When did your love for reading start? From really early on in elementary school, I would stay up late, hiding in my bed to finish a book. And I loved when Pizza Hut had a promotion where we could earn pizza for reading!
Is the book always better than the movie? The book is always better than the movie, because the book allows you to imagine .
To learn more about the work of literacy coaches in City Schools, watch this video.