Idaho Department of Education Enhances Early Literacy with hand2mind Word Work Sets for Educators

Enhancing Literacy Education in Idaho

The Idaho Department of Education has taken significant steps to boost literacy among young learners by purchasing hand2mind's Advancing Phonics Word Work Sets. This initiative is part of the broader Idaho SMART (Striving to Meet Achievement in Reading Together) 2.0 project, which is designed to elevate reading outcomes for kindergarten to third-grade students.

Meeting the Needs of Educators and Students

This investment aims to empower over 1,000 educators engaged in the SMART 2.0 project, providing them with essential tools for effective phonics instruction aligned with the Science of Reading. These Word Work Sets are engineered specifically for early literacy, designed to streamline instruction and minimize preparation time for teachers, allowing them to focus more on student learning.

The Word Work Sets include a variety of hands-on materials such as magnetic trays, organized letters, and write-on/wipe-off mats. These resources not only facilitate systematic phonics instruction but also foster a rich learning environment where teachers can actively engage their students in sound matching, word building, and other early literacy skills.

A Multi-Year Initiative for Lasting Impact

SMART 2.0 is more than just a temporary project; it's a multi-year initiative aimed at transforming literacy education in Idaho. The program underscores the importance of evidence-based practices, providing ongoing training and coaching for educators. The inclusion of hand2mind's resources is a strategic move to meet the program’s core goals, emphasizing the need for practical applications of reading science in classrooms across the state.

Anella Wetter, Vice President of Sales at hand2mind, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "We are honored to support Idaho's SMART 2.0 initiative with resources that help bring the science of reading to life in the classroom. These ready-to-use Word Work Sets are invaluable for reducing prep time and facilitating research-based strategies, ultimately benefiting student learning."

With the introduction of the Advancing Phonics Word Work Sets, teachers are equipped to implement small-group, hands-on phonics instruction endorsed by early literacy experts. This support allows for daily practice and encourages students to build and segment words effectively, fostering a strong foundation in literacy from a young age.

The Bigger Picture: Supporting Lifelong Learning

hand2mind has a long-standing commitment to hands-on learning, believing that children learn most effectively through interactive and engaging experiences. This partnership with the Idaho Department of Education reflects a shared vision of fostering curiosity and promoting confidence among young learners.

As educators utilize the Word Work Sets, they become part of a transformative process aimed at not just improving reading literacy but also contributing to the broader goal of nurturing informed and capable future citizens.

For more information about hand2mind's offerings, visit hand2mind.com/word-work-sets and discover how these resources can enrich learning experiences for teachers and students alike.

This initiative highlights the crucial role of educational resources in shaping literacy development and the importance of collaboration in creating effective teaching environments. The goal is clear: to ensure that every child in Idaho has access to high-quality literacy instruction that sets the stage for future academic success.