Berkley Schools Staff Host Coaches to Deepen Phonics Learning

In April and May, Berkley Schools elementary schools hosted coaches from 95 Percent Group, the District’s phonics program, across multiple grade levels and buildings. The phonics teacher labs gave educators time and space to observe one another, reflect on best practices and deepen their understanding of effective phonics instruction. The Teaching and Learning Team shared the following highlights and outcomes from the teacher labs:

• Coaches highlighted the power of simple tweaks to help students stay engaged and successful in phonics. 
• Teachers explored ways to support students, from using sound-spelling cards and manipulatives to building small groups around specific needs.
• There is growing evidence that students are starting to apply phonics strategies across reading, writing and content areas like social studies and science. 
• Consistent lesson structures, the use of visuals and gestures and clear scope and sequence help create smoother lessons and stronger student independence. 
• Teachers across schools shared strategies, wondered aloud together and offered each other encouragement.

Cait Seguin, Instructional Support Specialist, shared, “To our dedicated phonics lab hosts, thank you for leading the way with professionalism, warmth, and a shared commitment to high-quality instruction for all students. This kind of professional collaboration strengthens our entire learning community! We look forward to continued implementation of our phonics program and continued growth in literacy for our students!”