A monthly update from Summit Education Initiative that highlights our research, community involvement, upcoming events and more.
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March 2025

Hi Friend,

 

Just this week, I had a conversation that took me back to March 2020 when COVID-19 forced our schools to shut down and transition to remote learning. I had never seen anything like it in my lifetime. Our schools did what they could to provide students with technology and other resources to continue their education. It was not perfect, but emergencies often do not give us the opportunity to get everything right, so we learn as the events unfold.

 

There are still some residual effects from the pandemic-era remote learning to in-person learning. One indicator in particular, kindergarten readiness, stands out to me.

    David James headshot
      • In the three years (2017, 2018, and 2019) prior to the pandemic, our county-wide kindergarten readiness rate averaged 61%. This rate is based on how well students who are entering kindergarten perform on the State of Ohio Kindergarten Readiness Assessment.
      • In 2020, the State of Ohio suspended state testing so we have no data for that year.
      • Since the end of the pandemic, kindergarten readiness scores have fallen to 48% (2023).

      We all have more work to do in increasing the kindergarten readiness rate. One thing we know is the earlier children are exposed to reading, the better their educational outcomes.

      Coincidentally, March is National Reading Month, so as a reminder:

      • Reading for just 20 minutes a day exposes students to 1.8 million words per year.
      • Children who read 20+ minutes daily score higher than 90% of their peers on standardized tests.
      • Reading reduces stress by 68%, improves focus and strengthens brain function.

      At SEI we cannot stress enough the importance of early reading before children enter kindergarten.

       

      Sincerely, 

      David W. James Ed.D.

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        National Reading Month

        The impact of early literacy

         

        March is National Reading Month - a time to celebrate the power of literacy and its lasting impact on a child’s future. Research shows that students who read proficiently by third grade are significantly more likely to succeed in their academic careers and beyond. Check out our latest reports that highlight Summit County reading trends and the crucial role of early literacy in long-term academic achievement. 

        • Third-Grade Reading Report
        • Third Grade Reading in Summit County Public Schools
        • The Literacy Cycle in Summit County
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        Summit County Youth Coalition

        Upcoming student-led SCYC summit

        Summit County Youth Coalition (SCYC) students have started planning for their student-led summit happening this May. The event will showcase their work and focus on uplifting student voices. Students from area districts are being invited to join the movement for change in education. Stay tuned for more updates! 

        Community Meeting with the City of Akron 3

        Supporting early childhood education

        City of Akron community members recently came together to explore systems that are supporting early childhood education. Through insightful discussions and shared expertise, we’re working to create enriching environments that support our youngest learners.

        CLASS Act Scholars 3-1

        Summit Choral Society visit

        The Summit Choral Society joined CLASS Act Scholars teachers to share songs and stories to inspire young minds. Singing can be a powerful tool for building vocabulary, comprehension and a love for learning. Through music, rhythm and storytelling, educators are enriching language and literacy experiences for early learners.

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        Collaborative Action Networks

        Data Dashboards

        Youth Success Summit

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        Summit Education Initiative, Schrank Hall, 240 Carroll Street, Ste #215, Akron, OH 44325, US, 330-535-8833

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