Early Literacy Implementation Survey Sent Earlier Today, Jan. 24

As you are aware, the new Early Literacy Law (Iowa Code Section 279.68 and IAC 281-62) contains several requirements for Iowa schools that are now in effect. One of the requirements is that schools provide universal screening and progress monitoring using Department-approved assessment tools. The approved list is located at: www.educateiowa.gov/early-literacy-implementation

To assist districts with the implementation of these expectations the Department of Education as part of Collaborating for Iowa's Kids (C4K; made up of Iowa's Area Education Agencies, Local Education Agencies, and the Department) is currently working on a plan to provide all Iowa schools with access to Iowa TIER, the Formative Assessment System for Teachers (FAST) and the Individual Growth and Development Indicators (IGDIs). To better prepare for this opportunity, we would like you to take a brief survey to help us determine the number of districts that want access to these tools.

To help you determine your need for and interest in these tools, you will need to know the technology requirements for successful connection to the Iowa TIER system, and you may wish to read additional information on the FAST and IGDIs assessment packages. All of this information can be found at: www.educateiowa.gov/early-literacy-implementation

During training for these tools, schools will be asked to bring an Internal Coach, Technical Coach, Data Specialist, Content Specialist, and a Building Leader (Principal). Please remember that the funds your district receives pursuant to Iowa Code 279.68 can be used to pay for this training opportunity. More information on the training will also be posted as it becomes available at: www.educateiowa.gov/early-literacy-implementation

Please take the time to complete the survey* by February 7, 2014. We would only like one survey response per district. It will take approximately five minutes. You may wish to read the provided information prior to beginning the survey or open the Early Literacy Implementation web page in another window so you can refer to it as you answer the questions.

*All superintendents received a link to the Early Literacy Implementation survey earlier today (Friday, January 24) in an email sent from the Iowa Department of Education. It is important that there is only one survey response per district.