During our first semester at McNair, Grade 8 students completed a literacy assessment that involved reading a non-fiction text and responding to comprehension questions. The assessment focused on key literacy skills which included Prediction, Decoding Word Skills, Main Idea and Details, Making Connections, and Responding.​

The results highlighted areas where students would benefit from additional support, particularly in Decoding Word Skills, Identifying Main Ideas and Details, and Making Connections. In response, teachers intentionally scaffolded learning through guided practice, the use of graphic organizers, and modelling strategies to strengthen literacy skills and comprehension.​

By the end of the semester, a targeted follow-up assessment showed clear growth in Decoding Word Skills, Identifying Main Ideas and Details, and Making Connections. Student learning showed meaningful growth over the semester, with proficiency increasing from 33% in September to 56% by January. This progress reflects the positive impact of focused instruction, the dedication of both students and teachers as they work intentionally together to build strong, foundational literacy skills to support learning across all subject areas.​

We will continue to deepen instruction in key literacy skills while supporting students in using these strategies with increasing independence and critical thinking. To support student success, we have focused on building consistency in organizational strategies and strengthening our partnership with parents, with intentional communication around literacy and organization to create a shared approach that supports student learning. ​

As students build confidence, strengthen comprehension, and apply their thinking across all subject areas, we look forward to supporting them as they carry these skills forward into future learning.