North Billerica, MA, November 16, 2023
Evidence for ESSA—which provides educators with reliable, easy-to-use information on programs and practices that align with the rigorous standards of evidence as defined by the ESSA—accepted studies of Curriculum Associates’ Magnetic Reading Foundations for Grades K–2 and Magnetic Reading for Grades 3–5 as meeting their standards of evidence. Those studies demonstrate the efficacy of the programs in helping students reach grade-level reading proficiency.
“Our nationwide research shows that many students continue to struggle with grade-level reading, particularly those who missed early literacy instruction due to the disruption of the pandemic," said Elizabeth Bassford, vice president of content and implementation at Curriculum Associates. "Evidence for ESSA’s ratings acknowledge that our Magnetic Reading series is making it possible for elementary school students to achieve reading proficiency at their grade level and beyond. This is promising news as we endeavor to serve teachers in the exhilarating work of elementary reading. We are confident that our Magnetic Reading programs equip educators with the effective tools they need to help students reach their potential as successful readers.”
The two studies recognized by Evidence for ESSA evaluated the impact of Magnetic Reading Foundations and Magnetic Reading on reading achievement. To create similar instruction and comparison groups, researchers matched students who used a Magnetic Reading program with similar students who did not. In comparing Grade 2 students in schools that used Magnetic Reading Foundations versus those that did not, Magnetic Reading Foundations users scored an average of nine points higher on assessments in the 2022–2023 school year. For students in Grades 3–5, Magnetic Reading users scored an average of 11 points higher on assessments in the 2021–2022 school year.
Used as a component to complement any core reading program, Magnetic Reading Foundations K–2 provides the foundation needed for students to learn to read and connects to the comprehension skills taught in Magnetic Reading 3–5, when students read to learn. When used with i-Ready®, Magnetic Reading K–5 ensures every student gets the right support for succeeding as a grade-level reader.
Evidence for ESSA is an organization through the Center for Research and Reform in Education at the Johns Hopkins School of Education.
To learn more about Magnetic Reading and Magnetic Reading Foundations, visit MagneticReading.com.
About Curriculum Associates
Founded in 1969, Curriculum Associates, LLC designs research-based print and online instructional materials, screens and assessments, and data management tools. The company’s products and outstanding customer service provide teachers and administrators with the resources necessary for teaching diverse student populations and fostering learning for all students.
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