Last year, the Nebraska State Legislature passed LB 1081, the Nebraska Reading Improvement Act (see pamphlet included for more information). This bill ensures all students will be reading at or above grade level by the end of 3rd grade. During Kindergarten-3rd grade, students are “learning to read” by developing the skills to become proficient in reading. Beginning in 4th grade, students need to “read to learn” using these skills.  Research shows that students who are poor readers in 3rd grade remain poor readers in high school. The Nebraska Department of Education is requiring schools to focus interventions (anything to help a student improve their reading skills) during the early grades so that all students have the best opportunity to succeed throughout their educational experience.  

According to LB 1081, schools are required to assess all Kindergarten-3rd grade students a minimum of three times per year (Fall, Winter, and Spring) with an approved assessment method.  Mullen Public Schools (MPS) will continue assessing with DIBELS. We will also use a program called EduCLIMBER to view this data for your child(ren) in a holistic way. Using DIBELS as a starting point and then including NWEA MAP assessment data and classroom data as well, we will determine which reading interventions should be used to help your child succeed.   

MPS has implemented a web-based program designed to provide intervention and enrichment for 20 minutes for 4 days a week.  It is based on MAP data for each student and builds an individual program for every student based on their needs. Classroom teachers will use this data to identify strengths/ weaknesses of students and add interventions/enrichments at the classroom level.  Students that continue to need additional support will receive Title 1 services. Our MPS Title 1 teacher uses research- based intervention programs to help students strengthen their reading weaknesses.

The process MPS has in place complies with LB 1081, however, the one piece missing is communication to you, the parents. If your child(ren) did not meet the threshold levels set forth by NDE after the first DIBELS test has taken place, MPS will contact you regarding the next steps for your child(ren).  

Please feel free to call the Elementary School at 308-546-2292 if you have any questions.