Skip To Main Content

Literacy Connections

Building strong readers at Churchville-Chili

Churchville-Chili is making big changes to how we teach reading. Our goal is simple: give every student the skills and confidence to become strong readers and writers. These changes follow New York State’s literacy priorities and are based on years of research about how children learn best.

Why are we making changes?

Research shows that good reading comes from two key areas:

  • Word skills like phonics, fluency and sounding out words

  • Understanding skills like vocabulary, background knowledge and comprehension

By combining both, we can help students grow into lifelong readers.

What’s new this year?

  • Grades K–5: Students are using Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA), a program that teaches phonics step by step in the early grades and builds deeper knowledge and comprehension as students get older.

  • Grade 6: Students are learning with Amplify ELA, which gives them the chance to read challenging texts, build knowledge and grow as writers.

  • Assessments K–6: We are now using mCLASS to track progress. This tool helps teachers see what skills students have mastered and where they need more support.

Supporting our teachers

Teachers are also taking part in Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS) training, which provides deep knowledge about how children learn to read. This training helps them make the best choices for students every day.

Looking ahead

These updates are more than just new programs—they are a shift in how we approach reading as a district. With strong curriculum, better tools and ongoing training, we expect students to gain confidence, read with more independence and be ready for success in school and beyond.

Teacher dressed up for Wind in the Willows

Reading in Action

Here’s how the new approach to literacy looks in our schools:

  • Aligned lessons: Teachers use clear plans and supports that match across grades.

  • Skill-based support: Students get extra help in the exact areas they need.
  • Ongoing training: Teachers keep learning about the science of reading.
  • Targeted instruction: Students who need more help receive focused lessons.
  • Progress checks: We use regular assessments to guide next steps.

Literacy Resources