For the 2023-2024 school year, literacy has taken center stage in the Baldwin County School District, spurred by Governor Brian Kemp's signing of H.B. 235, the Georgia Early Literacy Act. This significant legislation necessitates new English Language Arts standards, set to be implemented statewide for the 2025-2026 school year. Superintendent Dr. Noris Price, appointed by Governor Kemp to the Georgia Literacy Council, has been at the forefront, making it a priority to proactively retrain teachers and support staff in the science of reading. As the district prepares for these changes, the commitment to literacy extends beyond compliance, aiming to continue to make reading accessible and enjoyable for students.
Highlighting the district's commitment to literacy, Baldwin High School hosted a Community Literacy Night on January 23rd. The event featured a table-talk with local authors, poetry slam competitions, and exciting giveaways, including Samsung tablets for the top poets. The community rallied behind the cause, with local businesses providing refreshments and additional activities.
Curriculum Coordinator Erica Ingram talked about some of the new techniques that were introduced at the Midway Hills Primary Literacy Family Night, "The school administration and teachers showed parents examples of what they could do at home to support the components of reading," she said. "They gave them resources to show them that it's not just 'reading', but sounding out words, pronunciation, asking questions about reading comprehension and delving into the science of reading."
Every school will be hosting Literacy Nights alongside STEM Family Nights, creating engaging family-oriented events to provide parents with fun engaging strategies to support their children at home.
As the Baldwin County School District navigates the changing landscape of literacy standards, proactive measures are being taken to ensure all students are proficient readers and writers. With Superintendent Dr. Noris Price leading the charge, community events like Literacy Nights are becoming a staple, and with innovative programs like the ELC's Ferst Reader's Program, the district is not only preparing for the future but is actively shaping a literary journey both exciting and enriching for all.
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