Recognizing the importance of early learning, the district operates a 5-star Step Up to Quality preschool program. “We’re committed to making sure that we do everything we can to support our students with their formative years in reading,” says Superintendent Dr. Michael Shoaf. Over the past 15 years, the program has grown significantly, expanding from 16 students to over 70, and district leadership has taken the initiative to expand the scope and impact of its programs in as many areas as possible. This growth is a result of the district providing its students with a robust academic environment by remodeling part of a school specifically for preschool students, further enhancing the program’s appeal and impact. This growth has also allowed the district to focus on program expansions for higher grade levels. “Our kindergarten program is focused on reading, mathematics, science, and social studies, and we have developed a structure within our school system, especially in the K-5 years,” Dr. Shoaf explains. The district uses programs like Wilson Reading and Heggerty and is in the process of updating its English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum to ensure the most effective instructional tools are available. Additionally, support is provided for students struggling with reading, ensuring they are wellprepared for the third-grade reading test, a key factor for promotion to fourth grade. The early emphasis on literacy and the core range of curriculum subjects has equipped students with the foundational knowledge they need to solve problems creatively HOLISTIC PLANNING FOR AN ACADEMIC VISION Rocky River City School District maintains an everevolving strategy to guide its development. 406 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07 BUSINESS VIEW AGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 01
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