Our Instructional Framework

Literacy Framework

Philosophy

Aiken County Public School District considers literacy to be the primary element in promoting student growth as thinkers and communicators.  Rich experiences in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for all students foster self-directed and lifelong learners.  We believe

• All students should have access to literacy-rich environments.

• Home-school connections are essential in supporting student growth in literacy.

• Collaboration among schools, families, and community members is critical to promoting literacy development.

In addition to Aiken County Public Schools’ literacy framework, the SC Department of Education has asked for certified educators to complete the LETRS/ Science of Reading training.

Here, at JD Lever, 100% of our certified staff members have either completed all LETRS trainings or is currently in LETRS training.  We are committed to providing the best literacy instruction that research has to offer.

Click the link below for more information on LETRS and the Science of Reading.

Science of Reading - South Carolina Department of Education

How We Are Moving Our Readers Forward

Our core reading curriculum is HMH Into Reading (K-5).  This reading curriculum is founded on the Science of Reading.  It includes foundational skills support such as phonics, phonemic awareness, and decoding.  It also includes in depth vocabulary studies, collaborative conversation guidance, and shared reading. 

Click for more information: HMH Into Reading | K-6 Reading Curriculum | HMH

We have integrated an explicit writing curriculum called Step up to Writing.  All students across all grade levels are given writing instruction from this curriculum.

K-2nd Grades

Explicit phonemic awareness instruction through the implementation of Heggerty.

Click for more information: Heggerty