K-3 Early Literacy Screening
Beginning this school year, the Ministry of Education and Child Care is expanding its Early Literacy Screening initiative to include all students from Kindergarten to Grade 3. The goal of the initiative is to identify students' literacy strengths and needs early, allowing schools to provide timely support and targeted interventions that help every learner build a strong foundation in reading and literacy.
In SD83, staff are working together to support this provincial mandate through a District-wide implementation plan. Kindergarten teachers will continue using the SD83 Early Learning Profile, while Grade 1 and 2 teachers will receive support from Literacy Support Teachers (LSTs), including time for literacy assessment, data review, and instructional planning. Grade 3 teachers are participating in professional learning focused on the DIBELS 8 screening tool, and French Immersion teachers in Kindergarten to Grade 3 will receive training on the SD23 French Early Literacy Profile. As part of this transition, PM Benchmarks will no longer be a district-mandated literacy assessment for Grades 1 to 3.
By strengthening early literacy screening practices and supporting educators with the tools and training they need, the District is helping ensure that students receive the right supports at the right time, setting them up for success throughout their educational journey.
Additional Resources
- Minister's Letter to Parents and Caregivers
- Early Literacy Screening Parent and Caregiver Brochure
- Ministry Literacy Screening Webpage
