The Genesee Valley Central School District has been selected by the New York State Education Department to receive a Reading First Grant.

The most exciting part of receiving this grant is knowing that each child will have direct access to Trade Books in their classrooms and in their homes that represent all types of genres and subjects. The State Education Department listened to districts when they stated that Reading is the most fundamental skill any child could develop. The State Education Department looked at district data to identify student needs, and they created an inclusive program that is scientifically based reading instruction. They identified the funding needed to support this type of initiative, and they issued grant proposal applications to districts. Linking data and funding is key to developing any successful program. The State Education Department needs to be commended for their efforts as well.

Genesee Valley Central School will receive approximately 1.2 million dollars over the next three years. Funds from this grant will go directly to classroom teachers and students in Kindergarten through Grade 3. Materials and supplies from this program include a complete Reading Series with supplemental and intervention materials for all student learners. It will also provide various assessments to allow teachers to track student progress throughout the school year. Funding from this grant will also allow the district to hire a part-time Reading First Coordinator, a full-time Reading First Building Coach, a Reading Intervention Teacher, and classroom aides to support general education and special education teachers delivering this model of Reading Instruction.

The Genesee Valley Central School District is excited and ready to learn, ready to teach, and ready to improve student achievement through the Reading First Program.

Submitted by,

Mia Warner, GVCS Elementary Principal
(585) 268-7900 EXT: 1231
mwarner@gvcs.wnyric.org