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 * In 125 words or less, summarize your program's problem addressed, solution and why it's unique and relevant to student achievement.* ** The challenge we identified in teaching our students is to  deliver high-quality curriculum with efficacy and fidelity while differentiating instruction with targeted support for 100% of student population (432 students).


 * In 500 words or less describe the critical need/problem addressed by your program/project (20 points).* ** Our critical need is creating a Balanced Literacy approach to instruction at the classroom level. We utilize a balanced literacy model of instruction. Within this model we balance word work, interactive read aloud, reading   workshop, writing workshop and shared reading/writing practices.

We have been implementing the Workshop format of instruction to address some of the components of a Balance Literacy program at our 1st-3rd grade school. This began five years ago with teachers from one grade level investigating the new reading Grade Level Content Expectations and wondering how to teach these complex standards within the frame of individualized instruction and best practice. These teachers found that Reading Workshop provided that frame. Research shows that the most significant achievement occurs when students are given tightly coached time to read authentic texts at their independent level. Since reading workshop has spread to other grade levels we have noticed significant improvement in our MEAP reading scores. This is confirmation of the research behind Richard Allington’s Six Ts of effective literacy instruction. Through significant // Time //, appropriate // Texts //, exemplary // Teaching //, engaging // Talk //, appropriate // Tasks // and meaningful // Tests // we have observed a shift in our school. This format of teaching is invigorating and empowering teachers. They value this teaching that meets the standards and directly carries into their students' reading lives. This is the most authentic form of instruction not only for the teachers but also for the students.
 * In 500 words or less, tell why your program is unique/innovative (25 points).* **

Teachers now have a more concrete way to assess their teaching of literacy and specific ways to plan their growth. To help teachers reach their full potential in best practice literacy instruction, we created a rubric to guide them throughout their process. Students have developed a love for reading and learning and have a sense of accountability to their progress. They truly wish to grow as readers! This feeling and achievement has carried over into the other curricular areas where the Workshop format has been implemented. Our Writing Workshop is finding the same results with our students. After the first year of implementation of the Writing Workshop our MEAP writing scores increased by 18%. We are truly creating lifelong learners where the students are active participants in their achievement.
 * In 1,000 words or less, provide evidence/data of your program's impact, success and scope [e.g. test scores, retention rates, grants/honors and participation rates] (35 points).* **
 * In 350 words or less, describe the resources used, such as budget, facilities, etc. **