As the child literacy crisis continues making headlines,”¯The Southport School (TSS), an independent day school for neurodiverse children in grades 2 through 8 who have language-based learning differences and/or ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder); and”¯The Southport CoLab, which provides programs for training professionals, educators and families, are working to ensure teachers are trained on literacy assessment and targeted invention for young students.
Their free professional development session for preschool educators, taking place on Thursday, May 18, at 12:15 p.m., will include a walk-through of the EarlyBird Literacy Assessment and Dyslexia Screener, a tool that uses the science of reading to screen, access, translate and help remediate skill deficits in young students. Attendees will be able to view profiles of at-risk students and see the accompanying dashboard intervention resources. They will also have opportunities to explore and create various reading readiness activities aligned with the core areas of early reading skills.
”¯“Early identification and intervention are crucial for the reading development of young students,” said Benjamin N. Powers, DBA, executive director of TSS and founding executive director of The CoLab. “When early childhood educators are equipped with the right tools and knowledge, they can create a strong foundation for success and ensure that no child is left behind as they begin their educational journey.”
Over the last five years, TSS and The CoLab have”¯trained more than 1,400 teachers on the science of reading, affecting more than 21,000 children, and”¯screened nearly 600 students at-risk for reading failure.
”¯The workshop will take place in Tavormina Hall on The Southport School campus (214 Main St.). Lunch will be served and attendees will receive a certificate upon completion.”¯
Advanced registration is required. Interested educators can”¯register here.
