Isheeka Green and her parents have plenty to celebrate this year. In the fall, Isheeka entered second grade as an emergent reader consumed with decoding accurately. However, her teacher, Lorraine Brozena recognized that Isheeka had a good attitude and a persevering spirit that would lay a foundation for success. Ms. Brozena contributed to Isheeka's success story. In the fall, she administered the Developmental Reading Assessment (DRA) for the first time along with the rest of the Hill School staff. Isheeka's instructional level was "B." Ms. Brozena was committed to helping Isheeka and the other students succeed. Although Ms. Brozena had five guided reading groups, she met with Isheeka's group daily. After months of daily instruction, Ms. Brozena and Isheeka begin to see the fruits of their labor. Ms. Brozena could tell that Isheeka was making progress up the Guided Reading Levels. However, after administering the DRA in the spring, they were pleasantly surprised to find out that she was reading at Level L. The growth in Isheeka goes beyond attaining a higher reading level. She is more strategic about her reading by shifting her focus from reading accurately to reading for meaning. During a recent guided reading lesson, Isheeka declared, "I'll just skip it and keep reading until I see what makes sense!" In addition, she monitors her comprehension by rereading and summarizing to clarify what she is reading. Ms. Brozena has noted that Isheeka's development as a reader has been carried over into other content areas when reading is required. Isheeka has recognized the value of her growth as well. Ms. Brozena says that she is more confident and participates more in class. Even her classmates see the difference in Isheeka and seek her help. No success story is complete without supportive and engaged parents. Initially, they were concerned that Isheeka would be overwhelmed in Ms. Brozena's gifted and talented class. However, she assured them that for reading Isheeka would be taught at her instructional level. Isheeka's mother constantly encourages her t o work hard and told her that she could achieve. Isheeka's father reads with her daily. In addition, he instills in his children that academic achievement is essential for them to become business owners in the future. He explains how the skills that they are learning will be useful for them to operate a business successfully. With this degree of encouragement and aspirations, it is easy to see how Isheeka developed an attitude of perseverance. Isheeka's growth this year exemplifies the impact that committed parents, a dedicated teacher, and small group instruction can have on a child. |
