By: Nancy Bonds, Director of Communications
James Bowie Elementary School announced results from its ongoing partnership with Ignite Reading to deliver online, one-to-one literacy tutoring for 1st and 2nd graders. Participating students have made impressive gains, averaging more than 2.4 weeks of reading progress for every week of tutoring instruction – more than double the expected rate in a traditional classroom. These strong results were consistent across all student groups, including students of color, those with IEPs, multilingual learners, and those eligible for free or reduced-price lunches.
A student engages with their Ignite Reading one-on-one online tutor and interactive activities. Photo by Carrie Pryor-Newman.
Ignite Reading staff joined educators and students recently at James Bowie Elementary School to showcase the nationally recognized program. A Q&A session followed the demonstration.
“The incredible literacy improvements we're witnessing at James Bowie Elementary showcase the positive impact of our partnership with Ignite Reading," said Dr. Randal O’Brien, Goose Creek CISD Superintendent. "Observing our students advancing their reading skills at such a rapid pace through technology is a clear indication of our strategic initiatives paying academic dividends."
Ignite Reading pairs students who need extra support with expert tutors who deliver daily, 15-minute Science of Reading-based instruction to help them master the key foundational skills needed to become fluent readers. The online, one-to-one literacy tutoring program is integrated into the school day, and a professional literacy specialist oversees growth data to ensure students are making expected progress.
Its curriculum reinforces the ‘Texas Readers’ program, which provides teachers with educational support to strengthen students' reading skills across the state. In addition to Texas, Ignite Reading is partnering with schools and districts to serve thousands of students across 18 states this year.
"The dedication of our educators and the personalized support from Ignite Reading have culminated in remarkable literacy success stories here at James Bowie Elementary," shared Damon McLemore, Bowie Elementary Principal. "Our learners are not only meeting but exceeding expectations week after week. This consistent progress across our entire student body validates our approach and encourages us to push for even greater achievements."