Reading Recovery Launches in Government Primary Schools

With sponsorship from Rotary Sunrise, the Ministry of Education and the Department of Education Services are proud to announce the launch of Reading Recovery, an internationally recognised and highly effective short-term literacy intervention for selected Year 2 students.

In early September, twelve teachers began the year-long intensive training process under the direction and guidance of an experienced and knowledgeable registered Teacher Leader from the Canadian Institute of Reading Recovery. For the duration of the academic year, these teachers will work with Year 2 students in daily 30-minute one-on-one lessons tailored to meet the specific needs of the learner. Drawing on careful observation and using their knowledge of a wide range of procedures, Reading Recovery teachers give each student the support they need to make fast progress in reading and writing. It is estimated 104 Year 2 students will be serviced throughout 2017 – 2018.

During the week of October 13, the Reading Recovery teachers from the Department of Education Services welcomed parents of those students selected for the programme to the Cayman Reading Recovery Community. Information on the in-school instruction as well as homework activities was provided and parents were given the opportunity to have their questions answered. Several Rotarians were also present during the community meetings showcasing their support for the students, parents, and the Reading Recovery programme.

With over 30 years of documented and researched success internationally, Reading Recovery has been described as the best evidence yet of the direct link between good design and educational excellence. The Ministry of Education and the Department of Education Services are proud to make this investment in the professional skills of their teachers and anticipate very positive outcomes on student literacy achievement.

Throughout the month of November, teacher training will continue and will include peer observation, feedback, and support. These sessions will be facilitated at the newly created Rotary Reading Recovery Centre based at Prospect Primary School. For more information on this programme contact the school’s Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCO).

Photo 1

Reading Recovery Teacher Trainees engaged in a training session at Prospect Primary School.

Photo 2

Parents learned about the new literacy intervention at one of the Cayman Reading Recovery Community parents’ nights held 16 October at Sir John A. Cumber Primary School.

Photo 3

Rotary Sunrise Literacy Director, Woody Foster, along with Reading Recovery Teachers from the Department of Education Services, welcomed parents and students to Reading Recovery at Prospect Primary School on 18 October.