Improved Literacy Scores Require Improved Literacy Instruction

Background

Literacy scores are at their lowest levels in decades. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress long-term trend assessments, the average reading score for 13-year-olds dropped seven points in the 2022-23 school year compared to a decade ago. To combat this trend, Montgomery County Public School (MCPS) District in Maryland partnered with Catapult Learning to provide targeted literacy professional development (PD) for their K-5 teachers.

How MCPS Tackled Literacy Challenges

Before the 2022-23 school year, MCPS sought to deliver literacy coaching that would strengthen teachers’ understanding of structured literacy and the Science of Reading. MCPS engaged Catapult Learning to provide tailored job-embedded coaching and workshops for nine targeted schools. The partnership also included specially designed two-day summer workshops for all 5,000 staff members.

These workshops jump-started teachers’ understanding of critical concepts, such as structured literacy, vocabulary development, and strategies for supporting Multi-lingual Learners (MLLs). This initiative aimed to prepare MCPS educators to tackle literacy challenges during the new school year.

Customized Professional Development Modules

Working with Catapult Learning’s professional development team, MCPS implemented tailored PD modules, including:

• The Science of Reading
• Literacy Infused with Core Instructional Practices
• Phonics
• Vocabulary Development

These modules helped teachers enhance their instructional practices and better support their students’ literacy needs.

A Tailored Approach

Every school and district has unique needs. That’s why Catapult Learning’s partnership with MCPS was tailored to fit the district’s specific goals while allowing for growth and evolution to meet future professional learning challenges.

Supporting Educators to Support Students

At Catapult Learning, we understand that educators face a range of academic challenges, including student behavioral issues, classroom management gaps, and leadership development. That’s why we provide comprehensive training programs backed by decades of experience as educators and coaches.

Learn More

To learn more about how Catapult Learning can support your district’s professional development needs, visit our website.