Universal Literacy Screening for Grades K-3

Irvington School District is committed to improving literacy outcomes for all students, especially implementing best practices related to early reading instruction and assessment.

New Requirements for the 2025-2026 School Year

In August 2024, Governor Phil Murphy signed P.L. 2024, c.52 into law, reinforcing the State’s commitment to improving literacy outcomes for students. This legislation builds on recent revisions to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards (NJSLS), dyslexia legislation, and the New Jersey Tiered System of Supports (NJTSS), initiating a broader effort to refine instructional literacy practices based on robust research in reading and learning.

The legislation establishes a comprehensive plan to ensure that young learners benefit from evidence-based literacy instruction by requiring districts to:

  • Administer literacy screeners at least twice annually for students grades Kindergarten through grade three (K–3) to determine a student’s reading proficiency.
    • The i-ready is being used as the universal screener for K-3 students.
  • Provide support for students consistent with NJTSS and Intervention and Referral Services.
  • Provide written notification to a parent or guardian of a student’s results of the universal literacy screening within 30 days of the close of the initial screening period
  • Report screening data to the NJDOE.
  • Provide professional development to preschool through grade six staff including:
    • Library media specialists
    • Professionals who support multilingual learners (MLs) and students with disabilities
    • Instructional Coaches
    • Speech-language specialists

In addition to the above screening process, teachers utilize a variety of assessment indicators and student performance data from i-Ready adaptive diagnostics personalized learning platforms. We also provide targeted interventions using the Magnetic Reading phonics program, the Reading Wonders core curriculum, and small-group classroom activities to inform instruction and support all learners.

Testing windows for the universal screening process are listed in the District Assessment Handbook. Should you have any questions related to this process, please contact the K-5 English-Language Arts Supervisor, Dr. Teesha Davis at tdavis@irvington.k12.nj.us.

Additional resources for your reference: