"To help build that base:" New push in West Allis-West Milwaukee School District to improve literacy
WEST ALLIS -- There is a new push in the West Allis-West Milwaukee School District to improve literacy at the elementary level -- and it all starts with Mom and Dad.
Li'yonna Hayslett is two, and she is learning to read.
"I always read the first line first and then I always ask her read it back to me," said Li'yonna's mom, Brionna Hayslett.
Officials with the West Allis-West Milwaukee School District are asking parents to get involved -- and are encouraging more reading at home.
"Kids from struggling backgrounds have thousands of words less than kids from non-struggling backgrounds, and so our intent is to help build that base," said Jill Reis, WAWM instructional services coordinator.
A district study found some students were not making the progress needed to be grade-level ready in literacy. The new "Talk Say Sing" campaign is an investment in kids, before they're even school age, to close the gap.
The goal of the campaign is to support the community and raise awareness for early development and school preparation. Through this campaign, the school district has created a variety of resources, tools, and tips for parents and children.
"Young people that are on track in third grade are more likely to be successful long-term, getting to college and career, getting their aspirations after high school," said Marty Lexmond, superintendent of the West Allis-West Milwaukee School District.
Free resource bags are being handed out to parents of children within the West Allis-West Milwaukee School District. They include information in both English and Spanish.
"Learning doesn't have to be some big expensive toy that you go out and buy. All these things are free and simple activities you can do with your child," said Lisa Colla, academic dean and program facilitator for 'Shared Journeys.'
Experts suggest games, songs and reading books daily.
"I always read a bed time story to her," said Hayslett.
Officials with the West Allis-West Milwaukee School District have launched a website with tools and tips to encourage reading.