The Bethel-Tate School District is making significant strides in aligning its reading instruction with Ohio's Science of Reading mandate. Using research-based literacy practices, the district has invested in long-term improvements to support student learning. Federal ESSER funds were used to purchase the Amplify Reading series, which aligns with new state literacy reforms introduced by Gov. Mike DeWine.
Here’s how each school is contributing to this initiative:
William Bick Primary School: Now in its third year using the Amplify CKLA program, William Bick focuses on phonics, phonemic awareness, and spelling through explicit instruction. Teachers also receive ongoing online training to deepen their understanding of these concepts.
Ebon Hill Intermediate School: Building on the foundation set at Bick, Ebon Hill uses tools like Curipod and IXL to enhance student writing and provide personalized lessons. Students benefit from 45 minutes of daily WIN (What I Need) time to focus on individualized learning goals.
Bethel-Tate Middle School: Middle School teachers have completed their Science of Reading Pathway training ahead of the 2025 deadline. The Amplify ELA program, grounded in Science of Reading principles, is fully integrated into their curriculum.
Bethel-Tate High School: High school teachers have also completed state-mandated Science of Reading training and are engaging in additional professional development to strengthen literacy instruction.
Superintendent Melissa Kircher shares that these efforts are part of the district’s long-term strategy to ensure all students receive high-quality reading instruction, setting them up for success across all grade levels.