Literacy Unlocked

FWISD K-12 Literacy - November 2021

The Truth About Reading (2022) Teaser

The Current State of Reading

How do we teach literacy in Fort Worth ISD?

Click and discover our approach to effective literacy instruction.

Curriculum Corner

3 Big Rocks

  • Lean into the "3 Big Shifts" in literacy instruction and explore the how to effectively plan Tier 1 Core instruction utilizing district resources.
  • Examine the alignment of literacy best practices (content and pedagogy) to accelerate student learning.
  • Use data to guide instructional decision-making and ensure equitable access for high levels of student achievement for ALL students.


Instructional Framework
Literacy and Biliteracy Framework

Elementary (K-5)

Elementary Reading Strategies We know that learning how to read is essential and students must be able to close read, annotate, and comprehend assignments and texts across all subjects. Edutopia consulted the research to arrive at a list of strategies that could develop strong reading skills and confidence for all students—including struggling readers.

Middle School (6-8)

Unorthodox Literacy Assessment Can you believe that a bathroom log helped one middle school understand its literacy issues? Educators with a laser-focus on developing meaningful relationships can actually deter the evasive behavior and hopelessness caused by the embarrassment of being a struggling reader. Schools must explore methods that not only give students a way to get unstuck, but that also cultivate student ownership of learning.

High School (9-12)

The Science of Reading Comprehension Much of the discourse around the Science of Reading is focused on the importance of explicit instruction for phonemic awareness, phonics and fluency. Before students can comprehend what they read, they must have foundational word-reading skills. However, the relationship between word-reading instruction and reading comprehension instruction might just be more synergistic than competitive.

Please Join Us in Celebrating our Lexia Learning Leaders!

Core 5 (K-5)
  • 65 campuses have usage above 50%
  • 42 campuses with usage above 70%
  • 10 campuses with usage at 90% or above
  • KG-3rd grade usage averaged above 70%
Big picture

Why is Professional Learning Important?

Professional Learning

Effective professional development builds the knowledge, skills and qualities of teachers to improve the outcomes of their students. When teachers practice and apply new learning, their enhanced knowledge and skills improves their teaching which then enhances their students' outcomes. Participants should select courses that increase teacher efficacy and are directly-aligned to student achievement (and not solely on "flex credit" compliance).


All English Language Arts and Reading professional learning opportunities (in person, synchronous, hybrid, and asynchronous) for grades K-12 are located in STRIVE. Courses are continuously added throughout the school year, based on district literacy needs.
Contact Us

The Literacy Department stands ready and willing to assist, guide, and support.

I am grateful for...

Click to share the blessings you have encountered this school year.