School District of Beloit Early Literacy

The Imporance of Early Literacy & Language

Did you know that 80% of the brain is developed between birth to 3 years of age? In fact, 90% of the brain is developed by age 5. That means the achievement gap can start in the toddler years; and the School District of Beloit is looking to intervene.

The Early Literacy program aims to expand access to reading and school readiness coaching to all families in our community. By collaborating with community partners, our Early Literacy program services the families of our littlest learners, age birth to 4. Currently in our community, only families who qualify can access birth to 3 literacy experiences. Organizations and services like Head Start, Even Start, Birth to 3 and special education are vital services to our families and our littlest learners but many of our families do not qualify.

Collaborating with community partners, preschool playgroups, and literacy wellness checks are at the heart of the Early Literacy program. Cultivating relationships with community groups like the Beloit Area Retired Educator Association (BAREA), the Latino Service Providers, and the Stateline Community Foundation have been key to early successes. The groups have centered conversations on the 32-million-word gap between professional families and families that live paycheck to paycheck contributing to the language achievement gap in the toddler years. More information about the 32 million word gap can be found at http://thirtymillionwords.org/. In the end, we all want our families to get the resources they need.

Preschool Playgroups teach the young children language, songs, numbers, colors, emotions, body parts, and emergent literacy skills. Every family in attendance gets a board book for home. Families ask lots of great questions. Director of Early Literacy, Rachelle Elliott says, “We believe that a child’s family is their first and most important teacher; empowering families is essential.” She encourages lots of parent involvement. Most events are held during the day at the Merrill Community Center. Expansion of events will include the Stateline Boys and Girls Club as well as some Saturday family events.

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