Arizona
Arizona has implemented several literacy policies aimed at improving reading proficiency among its students. The state's approach to literacy education focuses on evidence-based instruction, early intervention, and support for struggling readers. One key policy is the Arizona College and Career Ready Standards, which outline the skills and knowledge that students need to develop in order to be successful readers, including phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
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Arizona provides training and support for educators in evidence-based literacy practices, such as explicit instruction and the use of assessment data to inform instruction. The state has established the Arizona Early Literacy Initiative to provide guidance and support to educators and promote evidence-based literacy practices.
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Arizona uses a statewide assessment, the Arizona Statewide Assessment (AzMERIT), to monitor student progress in reading and identify areas where additional support is needed. The state's Response to Intervention (RTI) framework provides a systematic approach to identifying and supporting struggling readers, with tiered levels of intervention based on student needs.
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The Arizona Department of Education also partners with local organizations and agencies to promote literacy development through initiatives such as the Arizona Read On program and the Arizona Literacy and Learning Center. These programs aim to support literacy development among students and families, particularly those in low-income communities. Additionally, the state has established the Arizona Early Learning Standards, which focuses on promoting early literacy development among young children in the state.
Arizona Student Score Gaps:
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This represents no significant change from the state’s 2019 average score.
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In 2022, Black students had an average score that was 23 points lower than that for White students. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (28 points).
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In 2022, Hispanic students had an average score that was 24 points lower than that for White students. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (31 points).
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In 2022, male students in Arizona had an average score that was not significantly different from that for female students.
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In 2022, students who were eligible for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) had an average score that was 25 points lower than that for students who were not eligible. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (32 points).
Information from the NAEP website for 2022 4th grade reading scores.
AZ EVIDENCE-BASED CHAMPIONS
AZ EVIDENCE-BASED ORGANIZATIONS
These organizations are committed to promoting evidence-based reading practices, providing professional development opportunities for educators, and supporting students in developing strong reading skills.
Arizona Department of Education
Read On Arizona
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Arizona English Teachers Association
https://www.arizonaenglishteachers.org/
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The International Dyslexia Association - Arizona Branch