Wisconsin Rapids schools receive state literacy grant

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – Teachers in Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools will get a boost when it comes to teaching the youngest students reading schools, after the district was awarded an $80,000 state grant aimed at improving early reading instruction.
The district is one of seven statewide selected for the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction’s Early Reading Project Grant, which supports evidence-based literacy practices in kindergarten through second-grade classrooms.
The competitive grant aligns with Wisconsin Act 20, the state’s early literacy legislation.
Four elementary schools – Grove, Mead, THINK and Woodside – will participate in the program’s first phase beginning this coming school year. Educators will receive professional development and coaching from state staff.
The project uses state-developed tools including the Early Reading Practice Profile and the Active Implementation Framework.

“This grant allows us to take a systems-level view of our early literacy work – to align our practices, resources and training in a way that strengthens what we already do well,” said Julie Kolarik, assistant director of pupil services.
The program aims to increase English language arts proficiency, accelerate growth for students with individualized education programs and reduce special education referrals related to literacy challenges.
Superintendent Ronald Rasmussen said the work “aligns deeply with our mission to provide the best education for every student.”
“It reinforces our belief that all students can learn and highlights the importance of systemwide coherence in delivering high-quality instruction. We’re honored to be part of this statewide effort and proud of our staff for their commitment to continuous improvement and student success,” he said.
The grant also will support family engagement strategies to help parents support their children’s literacy development at home.
Other district schools may participate in future phases of the project.
Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools serves about 5,000 students in prekindergarten through 12th grade across central Wisconsin.