Missouri Reading Initiative

Missouri Reading Initiative Connection
Middle & High School (6-12)

The foundation of the Missouri Reading Initiative is based on the principles of effective and research-based literacy instructional strategies, including the most current findings by the National Reading Panel. The process and delivery of the Missouri Reading Initiative training is grounded in the principles of quality professional learning following the National Staff Development Council's recommendations. Missouri Reading Initiative’s on-site, long-term, comprehensive program allows trainers to be invested as partners with individual school sites in promoting improved literacy achievement for every student.

Program Overview

Overview
The Missouri Reading Initiative is a comprehensive approach to professional development in all aspects of balanced literacy instruction. It was first organized in 1998 under the auspices of the Missouri Learning First Alliance, consisting of fifteen major educational organizations. The initial mission of the Missouri Reading Initiative was dedicated to working with Missouri public schools' teachers and administrators to ensure every child would be able to read proficiently by the end of third grade. However, because of the successful results of the program it has been expanded to include literacy instructional assistance at all grade levels.

Goals
The Missouri Reading Initiative works with Missouri public schools to achieve the following goals:

Provide ongoing, systemic professional learning to enhance the quality of literacy instruction leading to improved student achievement throughout all grade levels.
Examine and disseminate research in reading and writing to educators throughout the state, assisting schools with the implementation of instructional best practices in literacy instruction through modeling lessons, coaching, and collaboration.
Assist schools with assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of school improvement efforts in literacy instruction toward a comprehensive model.

Process of Participation:

Individual schools must apply to be considered for a Missouri Reading Initiative site. Extensive discussion among the school's administrators and staff should take place to evaluate the school's readiness and commitment to improved literacy achievement. The application is available on the website, or one may be requested from the state office.
Before the school year begins, a trainer will conduct initial training for the administrator and teachers. The length of this initial training can be tailored to fit the individual school situation, but we suggest at least one day. The purpose of the initial training will be to give teachers some research-based best practices with which to start the school year. Administrator involvement is necessary for systemic change to happen; therefore, it is an MRI expectation that the principal actively participates in all training sessions with the teachers and trainer. Likewise, all teachers that have connection to literacy instruction (including Title I teachers, special education teachers, reading specialists, librarians, etc.) are encouraged to be involved in the training.
Once the school year starts, a trainer will return periodically to work with teachers and administrators. During these visits, the trainer will introduce new content to one or more grade levels of teachers. The trainer will model for teachers various components of literacy instruction as they work with students in classrooms.
Eventually, trainers will observe teachers as they implement the practice with their own students.
Collaborative time will provide opportunities for teachers to reflect on their own practice, ask questions of the MRI trainer, and plan for further visits.
In addition to the professional development delivered by the Missouri Reading Initiative trainers, teachers are encouraged to participate in study groups when the trainer is not there. Schools that pursue school improvement in a collaborative manner are more positive to the change process, leading to improved instructional practices among staff.
In total, the 6-12 training of Missouri Reading Initiative schools will follow a three-year format. Due to the varying difference of school size, the number of days per year will be determined through discussions by the MRI Director and school administration.
If, at the end of the third year, school personnel feel that further training and continued support are needed from the Missouri Reading Initiative, a plan may be developed cooperatively involving the MRI Director, school personnel, and the MRI trainer.

Program Content

The per diem cost can be determined by contacting the Missouri Reading Initiative state office. Payment for each year of service is due by August 1st. Schools may use professional development funds, Title I funds, Title II (Eisenhower) funds, and/or other sources to pay for the Missouri Reading Initiative training.

Forms may be mailed, faxed, or emailed to:
Rebecca Haseltine, Director
Missouri Reading Initiative
1409-B West Sunshine
Springfield, Missouri 65807
Fax# (417) 520-0739
rhaseltine@missourireadinginitiative.com