Literacy First - UT Austin

Program
Literacy First

Literacy First - UT Austin

Program Description

Literacy First is an early literacy intervention program focused on students in kindergarten through grade 2. The program identifies students reading below grade level and provides tutoring throughout the school year. Tutors work with their students daily in 30 minute sessions that are tailored to address specific individual literacy/language needs across students. Literacy First uses a response-to-intervention model that involves frequent benchmark assessments and weekly progress monitoring.

Student Population

A study focused on grades K-2 within 22 elementary schools in the Austin Independent School District and 630 students. The sample represented Hispanic, and English Learner populations, with 83% of students being eligible for Free and Reduced Price Meals. The study was conducted in urban schools.

Current Evidence

Literacy First has been rated as "Strong" by Evidence for ESSA (https://evidenceforessa.org/program/literacy-first-ut-austin/). A study found significant positive effects on ITBS reading assessments, with an average effect size of +0.19, indicating improved reading outcomes compared to control groups.

For more information:

Literacy First

Phone: 512-232-2286

Email: support.literacyfirst@austin.utexas.edu

Website: literacyfirst.org

Caverly, S. & Stoker, G. (2021). Literacy First: Evaluation summary report. American Institute for Research.