No Parachuting Allowed: What Matters Most in Reading Intervention

Here are 3 key areas and criteria educators can use to evaluate literacy intervention solutions on the market: 

1️⃣ Evidence-based

By starting with the evidence, educators can identify the most effective interventions, ensure that the resources being used are grounded in research, and that the programs they select are likely to be successful. Look for these types of components in provider offerings:

• Instructional models aligned to a research-based body of pedagogy like Science of Reading
• Interventions supported by evidence standards such as ESSA Tiers of Evidence
• Published efficacy studies and impact reports

2️⃣ Equity-centered

The factors that contribute to low literacy rates are often grounded in systemic inequalities, such as poverty and lack of access to education. Only by centering fairness and support in literacy interventions can we hope to make meaningful progress in improving literacy rates. Look for these types of components in provider offerings:

• Title I models
• Culturally supportive and authentic instructional materials and multi-lingual language scaffolding
• Multi-sensory engagement, such as through the use of audio and visuals
• Supports a range of reading proficiency and differentiated instruction

3️⃣ Community collaboration and relationships

Successful literacy intervention solutions help create a sustainable and engaging learning environment for students and educators. Look for these types of components in provider offerings:

• Consistent, engaged, and vetted partners, like tutors, that deliver and support literacy programs
• Broad, community-centered leadership, especially at the Board of Directors level
• Mission and values centered around positive community engagement and best practice
• Culture of continuous learning, development, and training, especially for educators
• Local advocacy that reflects research-based guidance, community trends, and funding structures

By focusing on interventions that are grounded in research, tailored to the local context, and designed to broadly meet the needs of those who are struggling with literacy, we all can make progress in closing the achievement gap and ensuring that students have the opportunity to develop these essential skills. Parachuting in a solution is not only ineffective but may even do harm. Together we make a difference in the lives of learners everywhere, let’s go!

Learn More.
BookNook has prepared a simple evaluation tool for high-impact tutoring services.

Read about BookNook’s program, including an in-depth overview of BookNook’s impact on literacy development in grades K-8.