3-Tier Reading Model
Balanced literacy serves as the instructional delivery method in our 3-Tier Reading Model. The 3-Tier Reading Model implements three levels of reading instruction—Tier I, II, and III —to ensure that students’ reading needs are adequately addressed.
Tier I—Our balanced literacy approach is grounded in scientifically based reading research addressing phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Students receive 120 minutes (writing included) of daily uninterrupted instruction at this level. Students' progress is monitored kindergarten through fourth grade using DIBELS (a benchmark test) three times per year (fall, winter, and spring) to help determine instructional needs of students. Students who score below the initial benchmark are provided additional support with their reading skills in Tier II.
Tier II—This level of intervention is provided to students who are below the initial benchmark. In addition to the 120 minutes of Tier I instruction, these students receive small group instruction for an additional thirty minutes per day. In these small groups, teachers provide direct and explicit instruction after analyzing formative, summative, and diagnostic data. Teachers monitor student progress at least once a month and make instructional decisions based on student performance. Students who progress to benchmark are exited, although their performance is still monitored by teachers. Those students not exited receive Tier III interventions.
Tier III—This level of instruction is designed for students who have not progressed to grade level with Tier I and II support. Instruction at this level is direct, explicit, and customized to meet the needs of individual readers. Teachers analyze formative, summative, and diagnostic data before planning instruction. Student progress is monitored at least every two weeks so teachers can modify instruction in a timely manner in order for the child to become a proficient reader.
Trailblazers Mathematics
Math Trailblazers is a balanced, research-based mathematics program integrating math, science, and language arts. The program is grounded in the premise that students must be actively engaged in solving problems from many different contexts and must be able to connect abstract ideas to the real world. It includes a balance of group work, individual work, and whole class instruction. Students use manipulatives, calculators, pictures, graphs, data tables, and numbers throughout the program to become proficient problem solvers. Math Trailblazers’ curriculum spirals, allowing students to return to the same content presented in different contexts throughout the year.
